Otolarygological Manifestations of Patients with Confirmed Covid-19 Infection

Abstract

Background: the coronavirus leads to upper respiratory tract-associated manifestations like nasal congestion, sore throat, and smell disorder

Objectives: To reveal the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on otolaryngology symptoms using our daily medical practice.

Subject and Methods: A cross-sectional study that was carried on in the isolation wards at Al-Kindy and Al-Nu’man Teaching Hospitals during three months from the 1st of Jun. till the end of Aug. 2020. It included 1270 patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 infection seen in the ENT consultation clinic and admitted to the isolation wards.

Results: Otolaryngological manifestations were shown as 15.7% complained of sore throat, the headache was presented in 11%. Non-otolaryngological manifestations were more common than otolaryngological manifestations as fever presented in 63% of cases and cough in 56.1%.

Conclusion: Otolaryngological symptoms are not uncommon but less than fever or cough. Otolaryngological manifestation with a history of contact with COVID-19 patients should be considered in the diagnosis.