Covid loss of smell

COVID-19 has brought significant attention to the issue of olfactory loss, which is often an early symptom of the virus. Andrew Huberman and Noam Sobel discussed several aspects and potential treatments for COVID-related loss of smell on the Huberman Lab.

1. Regeneration of Olfactory Neurons: Olfactory sensory neurons have the unique ability to regenerate in adults. If the olfactory pathway isn't severed completely, there might be a chance of recovery if the sense of smell returns within a year to a year and a half. If not, recovery is unlikely 1.

2. Alpha-Lipoic Acid: Alpha-lipoic acid has been noted in some research to potentially accelerate the recovery of smell, although the evidence is not overwhelming. This supplement has worked anecdotally for some individuals, including Dr. Huberman, who experienced anosmia due to COVID-19 1.

3. Olfactory Training: Engaging in olfactory training—smelling different odors—can help keep olfactory neurons active, which supports their health and function. This method is based on the idea that active neurons maintain better connections, which might be beneficial for those with olfactory impairment 2.

4. Connection to Brain Health: A loss of sense of smell is often correlated with neurological conditions, but it's not necessarily indicative of brain damage. Olfactory neurons continuously regenerate, influenced by factors like exercise and dopamine levels, which underscores their connection to overall brain health 3.

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     1

     Olfactory Recovery Insights

     00:14:49
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     2

     The Science of Smell

     00:17:02
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     3

     Smell and Brain Health

     00:43:34
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     4

     Digitizing Smell

     02:55:24

These insights reflect the broader impact and importance of understanding olfactory function, particularly in context to COVID-19, which has sparked renewed research and interest in this sensory domain 4.