Under the title "Simple Treatment to Combat the Most Common Symptoms of COVID-19," Sky News reported that British researchers have suggested that vitamin A nasal drops may be able to treat loss of smell, one of the most common symptoms of COVID-19. Loss or alteration of the sense of smell is a very prevalent symptom of COVID-19, although many other viruses, such as influenza, can also cause it. However, in the case of COVID-19, the loss of smell can persist for several months even after recovery from the virus.
According to the BBC, the University of East Anglia is conducting a 12-week trial where some volunteer patients will receive the treatment while others will not. Following this, everyone will be asked to smell strong odors such as eggs and rotten flowers, and brain scans will check whether the vitamin has repaired the damaged olfactory pathways or "smell nerves."
Lead researcher Professor Karl Philpott from the Norwich Medical School at the University of East Anglia stated to the BBC: "We want to know if there is an increase in the size and activity of the damaged olfactory pathways in patients' brains when treated with vitamin A nasal drops." He added, "We will look for changes in the size of the olfactory bulb, which is the area above the nose where the smell nerves come together and connect to the brain. We will also study activity in brain areas associated with scent recognition."
Vitamin A helps strengthen the lining of certain body parts, including the nose, enhances the immune system, and improves vision, especially in low light. Many dairy products and some vegetables contain this fat-soluble vitamin. However, those taking nutritional supplements with vitamin A should be aware that excessive intake can be harmful.
