Smelling Hope: Can Stellate Ganglion Block Restore Lost Sense of Smell? (A New Dawn for Anosmia Sufferers)

Restore Olfactory Function with Stellate Ganglion Block

Many people have found long-term COVID to be a crippling and frustrating experience due to the lack of smell. It may be difficult to perform daily activities like eating and enjoying meals if you have parosmia. Parosmia can occasionally result in anxiety and despair as well.

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However, those who have long-term parosmia brought on by COVID-19 have hope. Many patients have shown promise in regaining their sense of smell after receiving a novel treatment called stellate ganglion block.

Stellate-Ganglion Block: What Is It?

A minimally invasive technique called a “stellate ganglion block” entails injecting anaesthetic into the stellate ganglion, a group of nerves in the neck. This aids in inhibiting pain signals and arousing the autonomic nervous system, both of which are implicated in the prolonged COVID-related loss of smell.

How Do Syncrine Ganglion Blocks Operate?

Stellate-ganglion block is believed to function by lessening inflammation of the olfactory nerves, which are in charge of sending scents to the brain. The precise mode of action of this block is not entirely understood.

What Advantages Are There?

According to a study presented at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) annual meeting, 59% of patients with extended COVID who had been experiencing parosmia reported that stellate ganglion block was successful in enhancing or recovering their sense of smell. The impression of smelling something that is not there, known as phantosmia, was likewise effectively reduced or eliminated by the treatment.

What Dangers Exist?

With few adverse effects, stellate ganglion block is a rather safe treatment. The most frequent adverse effects include tingling in the arm and neck and momentary numbness.

Who Qualifies for a Stellate Ganglion Block?

For patients with lengthy COVID who have not responded to prior treatments and have had parosmia for at least three months, stellate ganglion block is a viable alternative.

How to Locate a Medical Professional

Speak with your physician if you’d like more information about stellate ganglion block. They can direct you to a licenced practitioner and assist you in determining whether you are a good candidate for the treatment.

In summary

Prolonged COVID-related olfactory loss can be a fatal illness. But, those who are battling this issue now have hope thanks to the introduction of stellate ganglion block. Many people’s lives could be improved and a sense of normalcy could be restored with the help of this innovative treatment, which is safe and effective.