Protocol for olfactory training in persisting COVID-19-associated loss of smell (SMELL): a monocentric randomised controlled trial conducted in Innsbruck.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Olfactory dysfunction (OD) following COVID-19 affected up to 70% of patients, with more than 30% still reporting lingering symptoms a year later. Treatment is essential, as previous research has linked (postviral) OD to depression, impaired quality of life (QoL) and even heightened mortality rates.

Methods and analysis

We designed a monocentric, single-blinded randomised controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of olfactory training (OT) in individuals with persisting COVID-19-associated loss of smell. Randomisation will be done in a 1:1 manner. OT will be performed using the Sniffin' Sticks Duft Quartett over a period of 12 weeks, two times per day. The primary endpoint of this study is the change in olfactory score between baseline and after 12 weeks, measured

SUBMITTER: De Cleene N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12121588 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature