Anosmia, or loss of smell, is a fairly common symptom of Covid-19. French people have developed an application to guide patients with anosmia and help them regain their sense of smell.
Personalized support
Nearly a million people have reportedly been affected by the partial loss of smell in France. Anosmia is not without consequences, since it can lead to a state of ill-being, generate eating disorders or a feeling of insecurity (inability to smell a smoke, for example). This is why Professor Fabrice Denis, oncologist at the Jean Bernard Institute in Le Mans and Florian Le Goff, computer engineer, have decided to help patients suffering from anosmia, especially in the long term. According to the results of a first study, carried out on 500 patients, olfactory rehabilitation would be 71% effective. More than half, or 58% observed an improvement in their sense of smell. These people had had persistent anosmia for more than 6 months. In addition, 63% of volunteers saw progress within the first 10 days and 78% between 11 and 36 days of use. Regarding the smell disorders associated with Covid-19, additional studies are still underway. However, the application is “ recommended to speed up recovery because it is inexpensive and has no known significant toxicity “.
How does the app work?
First, the person must complete their profile by answering 12 questions. An olfactory kit is then offered to the patient, comprising 4 aromatic oils necessary for rehabilitation such as lavender, coffee or vanilla. The person can benefit from personalized coaching, by performing the tests twice a week. There is also in this application ” short tutorials, motivational notifications and a self-assessment », As Professor Fabrice Denis told Le Figaro. The aim of CovidAnosmie is ” above all to optimize rehabilitation by associating images with olfactory simulations », He clarified.
