ABSTRACT
Introduction Olfactory dysfunction is a commonly described symptom in the setting of SARS-Cov-2 virus infection. The prevalence is reported to be 40-60 %. Spontaneous remission often occurs during the course, but many patients suffer from longer-term olfactory impairment. This study tests possible improvement of long-term impairment with intra-nasal reflex therapy (INRT). Methods Patients with > 6 weeks of persistent olfactory dysfunction after symptomatic covid-19 infection were included in the 28-day intervention study. INRT applications were performed on 6 dates over 14 days. Intranasal stimula- tion was performed endonasally bilaterally at 3 different sites. An ENT assessment was performed at the start and end points of the study. Quality of life was assessed bilaterally using SF36. An objective olfactory test (SniffinSticks) was performed trilaterally. Results A total of 15 patients, 9 women and 6 men (22-67 years) with disease onset between 03/2020 and 03/2021 were included. None of the study participants showed anatomical abnormalities, and the interventions (INRT) were well tolerated. Subjectively, there was a small to significant decrease in hyposmia in most patients in both groups, and objectively, some patients also showed improvement in their findings. Discussion The results suggest a promising approach as a complementary therapeutic option for hyposmia post covid-. To increase validity, an increase in the number of cases and the establishment of a control group is planned.
ABSTRACT
introduction. In medical rehabilitation of patients who have suffered a new coronavirus infection COVID-19, it is recommended to use reflexotherapy (acupuncture). Before applying reflexotherapy, it is recommended to conduct an acupuncture diagnosis which allows to choose a method of exposure, create an individual acupuncture prescription and carry out subsequent monitoring of its effectiveness. aim. Prepare a literature review using Russian and foreign sources and present data from modern studies on the use of reflexology in the medical rehabilitation of patients who have undergone a new coronavirus infection COVID-19. Conclusion. Currently, various methods of reflexotherapy are used to impact on acupuncture points. the use of reflexotherapy increases the body’s defenses, has a significant positive effect on bronchial obstruction, regional lung ventilation, diaphragm functional ability, pulmonary hemodynamics and helps to restore the sense of smell and taste. Reflexotherapy methods reduce the manifestations of myofascial pain syndrome affecting the respiratory muscles, restore muscle strength, reduce shortness of breath and anxiety. the experience of doctors from different countries will increase the effectiveness of comprehensive rehabilitation and the quality of life of patients with various complications after a new coronavirus infection COVID-19. © 2018 Kyokai Joho Imeji Zasshi/Journal of the Institute of Image Information and Television Engineers. All rights reserved.