Year : 2023

Volume : Volume 14

Issue : Issue 5

Address for correspondence :
Dr. S. Meru
drmeru@gmail.com

Abstract

Background: The symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are varying and include those pertaining to involvement of multiple body systems and organs. Since, cells in the oral cavity express viral entry receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 that allows viral replication and may cause tissue inflammation and destruction. Objective: The objectives were to assess the symptoms of COVID-19-related symptoms in individuals during and after their phase of COVID-19 infection; to assess the attitude in terms of psychological impact, of COVID-19 on individuals during and after their phase of COVID-19 infection; and to assess the practices followed by individuals afflicted by COVID-19 during the period of their infection. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional questionnaire‑based survey study was conducted among the general population in India, who had recovered from COVID-19 infection. Results: The questionnaire was answered by 419 individuals, of which 121 (28.9%) experienced loss of taste, 150 (35.8%) had dry mouth, 15 (3.6%) burning mouth, 26 (6.2%) had excessive salivation, and 28 (6.7%) had blisters or ulcers. Anxiety was reported by 101 (27%) depression by 22 patients, irritability and lack of focus were reported by 69 (18.4%) symptomatic participants which were statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05). Residual symptoms, tiredness, muscle pain, and joint pains were reported by 36 (9.6%), 45 (12%), and 48 (12.8%) of the symptomatic participants, respectively, and were found to be statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Individuals who have diagnosed with COVID-19 should undergo long-term monitoring for evaluation and management of symptoms during and after recovery