On March 8, 2023, I had my first of 2 stellate ganglion block shots. Since November of 2020 I have had no taste or smell due to Covid. I have tried acupuncture, smell training, vitamins, any therapy that was suggested, with zero results. On the day I got my shot, 15 minutes after waking up, I ate a piece of cake and I could taste sweet, not the actual cake, but the sweetness from it. We went out for dinner after and I couldn’t taste or feel anything, I was a little disappointed, but there was also no way of knowing how long it would take. Fast forward to the next morning, about 8:30 am, my wife had made coffee and it smelled burnt, but it was still a smell. Game on! My first taste and smell together was Doritos, next was kalamata olives, pickles, Cholula, and Sambuca (don’t judge, it was a celebration). I smelled open pit bbq sauce, chocolate chip cookies, vinegar, vanilla, garlic, honey, & peanut butter. Now to the laundry room for downy, pinesol, bleach, dryer sheets and off to the bathroom for body wash, deodorant, perfumes and colognes. Now I can say a week later that I have about 50-55% of my tastes and smells back. I have noticed that blander foods and drinks; grapes, bread, salad, cheese, and tea, I do not taste, but stronger like chicken parm, French dip, bacon & sausage I do. I did get 2 side effects immediately, but both were gone the next morning, horners syndrome and a hoarse voice, both of those are good signs that the block was in the correct place. During the time leading up to the procedure, Dr. Chadha had explained what was going to happen and possible side effects. The Dr. and her team of Maria, Susan and Gianni, were right by my side the entire time and even cheered with me when I ate the cake. I am looking forward to my next shot on the 22nd to see what else will happen. Thank you so much to Dr. Chada and the entire staff at Chicago Pain Relief.
Sincerely,
Marcus
