The aim of this study is to obtain a clear picture of ENT related symptoms in active COVID-19 patients. This study also intends to determine the association of ENT symptoms with Olfactory and Gustatory dysfunction in these patients. Material and Methods: This is a prospective study on 70 active COVID-19 patients who were admitted in the Tertiary Care Hospital. History of all symptoms including Olfactory and Gustatory function were enquired after obtaining Informed Consent. Results: Throat related symptoms was 77.78%, Nasal symptoms accounted for 63.49% and Ear related symptoms constituted 14.28%. It was seen that Rhinorrhoea and Sneezing was significantly more associated in the presence of Olfactory dysfunction. The most common ENT symptoms were Sore throat (49.21%), Rhinorrhoea (34.92%), Sneezing (33.33%), changes in Smell perception (36.51%), changes in Taste perception (47.62%) and Headache (30.16%). 17.14% of the patients in this study had both Olfactory and Gustatory dysfunction. Ear related symptoms were also observed where 11.11% had Aural fullness, 3.17% with Tinnitus and 6.35% of the patients complained of Hearing loss which was either noticed for the first time or had worsened on contracting the COVID-19 disease. Discussion: Knowledge of ENT symptomatology in COVID 19 patients will aid in early quarantine and hence limitation of viral transmission. The manifestation of Anosmia or Hyposmia, Ageusia and Aural Fullness in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients can also act as an important tool and help in early isolation and quicker initiation of COVID-19 therapy.
Objectives: The study intends to identify various clinical signs on proper ENT examination. This knowledge will help in successfully identifying infected individuals which can be otherwise missed on screening the patient. Study Design and Setting: This study is a Prospective Cross Sectional Study, a type of an Observational Analytical study. 70 individuals who were admitted in the COVID-19 wards in our Tertiary Care Hospital were subjected to fulfillment of the inclusion and exclusion criteria prepared for this study. Methods: Participants were chosen based on the selection criteria prepared for the study. After obtaining an informed consent, a proper and safe Otorhinolaryngological examination was performed with all necessary precautionary measures. Data was collected as per the designed clinical proforma. Results: 80% of the patients had the presence of clinical signs with respect to Otorhinolaryngology. 43 patients had clinical signs on Throat examination, 35 patients had clinical signs on Nasal examination while 9 patients had Ear related clinical signs. The ENT related clinical signs mostly included Nasal mucosa congestion, Posterior Pharyngeal Wall congestion and presence of Granulations in the Posterior Pharyngeal wall. Reduction of Smell and Taste was also elicited on clinical examination. Other clinical signs also included Tonsil enlargement, n/ Tympanic Membrane retractions and decreased hearing on clinical evaluation. Conclusion: Knowledge of ENT related clinical signs in COVID 19 patients are important while examining patients in the Out Patient Department or Clinic. Focus on ENT related clinical signs are also as important as symptomology.
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