Direct effects:

• Acute symptoms: Some common ENT symptoms of COVID-19 include:
  • Loss of smell (anosmia) and altered taste (dysgeusia), which can be early indicators of infection and persist long after recovery.
  • Sore throat, nasal congestion, and rhinorrhea (runny nose).
  • Earache, hearing loss, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
  • Vertigo and dizziness.
• Rare, but serious complications:
  • Mucormycosis: a fungal infection affecting the sinuses and brain, more common in diabetics and immunocompromised individuals.
  • Sensorineural hearing loss: can be permanent and requires audiological evaluation and management.

Specific patient groups:

• Children: May experience different symptoms than adults, with some studies suggesting they are less likely to lose smell or taste.
• Elderly and immunocompromised: More susceptible to severe complications like mucormycosis.
• Individuals with pre-existing ENT conditions: Their existing conditions may be exacerbated by COVID-19 or its treatment.

Overall, the impact of COVID-19 on ENT health in patients has been diverse and can range from mild, temporary symptoms to serious, long-term complications. It’s important to be aware of the potential risks and seek timely medical attention for any concerning ENT issues, even if they seem unrelated to COVID-19.