The perceived odors may be constant or come and go.
Chronic neurological conditions like epilepsy, migraines, or Alzheimer’s disease can also disrupt these neural pathways.
Most cases occur for no known reason.
structuresxx / iStock / Getty
structuresxx / iStock / Getty
What Does Phantosmia Mean?
What Types of Smells Does Phantosmia Cause?
Individuals with phantosmia are more likely to report smelling unpleasant odors rather than pleasant ones.
With phantosmia, smells are generated in the absence of odor molecules.
The causes of this can be broadly categorized as being either peripheral, central, psychiatric, or pharmaceutical.
Many cases are alsoidiopathic, meaning of unknown origin.
Peripheral Causes
Phantosmia can be sparked by dysfunction of the peripheral olfactory system.
Generally speaking, the greater the infection or inflammation, the greater the olfactory disturbance.
These include transient neurological conditions, progressive neurodegenerative disorders, and even hormonal disorders that disruptneurotransmittersthat enable nerve transmission.
Examples include:
Psychiatric Causes
Olfactory hallucinations are common features with certain psychiatric disorders.
It may be helpful to take notes before your appointment.
Write down how long you have been experiencing problems with smell and any other present symptoms.
Tell your practitioner if you have recently experienced any trauma to the head or nose.
Other screening tools include:
Phantosmia Treatment
Treatment for phantosmia varies depending on the underlying cause.
Summary
Phantosmia is a condition that causes you to smell odors that are not there.
Mood disorders and schizophrenia can also involve “phantom smells.”
Your healthcare provider may recommend a physical exam, a smell test, and imaging studies to diagnose phantosmia.
Possible treatment options include observation, medications, and surgery.
2021 Jan 1;46:bjab046.
doi:10.1093/chemse/bjab046
Lie G, Wilson A, Campion T, et al.What’s that smell?
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