Objective

2

To observe the clinical efficacy of

Tongtiao

acupuncture-moxibustion method for long COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction.

Methods

2

A total of 28 patients with long COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction were selected and treated with

Tongtiao

acupuncture-moxibustion therapy (regulating orifices

invigorating the brain

and regulating

qi

and blood). Acupoints included Yintang (GV24

+

)

Baihui (GV20)

Fengfu (GV16)

Qihai (CV6) and bilateral Yingxiang (LI20)

Fengchi (GB20)

Xuehai (SP10)

Zusanli (ST36). Deep needling to the periosteum of the nasal bone was performed at Yintang (EX-HN3)

with warming needle moxibustion applied. Each treatment lasted 40 min

administered once daily for 6 days per week

followed by a 1-day rest

over 4 consecutive weeks. T

&

T olfactory test scores

TCM symptom scores

serum cortisol levels

Hamilton depression scale (HAMD) scores

and Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA) scores were compared before and after treatment. Clinical effect was evaluated based on T

&

T olfactory test grading.

Results

2

Compared before treatment

the T

&

T olfactory test scores

each TCM symptom scores

HAMD scores

and HAMA scores were decreased after treatment (

P

<

0.01

P

<

0.05)

while serum cortisol level was increased (

P

<

0.01). The total effective rate was 96.4% (27/28).

Conclusion

2

Tongtiao

acupuncture method could effectively alleviate symptoms of long COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction

increase serum cortisol level

and relieve anxiety and depressive symptoms.