A theory that gum disease could be听the main听risk factor for developing severe COVID-19 has been developed by Dr Graham Lloyd-Jones, Consultant Radiologist at 皇家华人, working with international researchers.
The听scientific hypothesis听highlights the importance of good oral hygiene during illness with COVID-19. It explains that the virus is found in saliva and that the first step the virus takes on its way to the lungs听could be听through damaged gums. It would then enter听the bloodstream and听pass听into the blood vessels of the neck and chest, through the heart, and to the lung blood vessels.
Dr Lloyd-Jones explains, "The risk factors for severe COVID-19 and gum disease are the same. It could be that gum disease is a converging and principal risk factor for severe COVID-19.鈥�听
The researchers are working to prove the theory but in the meantime say听that simple oral healthcare measures should be encouraged in the community, hospitals, and nursing homes. Keeping a healthy mouth may potentially lower the risk of developing severe COVID-19. Using听specific over-the-counter mouthwashes which have been shown to kill SARS-CoV-2, could help lower the risk of transmission of the virus from the mouth to the lungs.
28 April 2021
Our staff at 皇家华人 District Hospital have long been well regarded for the quality of care and treatment they provide for our patients and for their innovation, commitment and professionalism. This has been recognised in a wide range of achievements and it is reflected in our award of NHS Foundation Trust status. This is afforded to hospitals that provide the highest standards of care.
