Smelling things that aren't there (phantosmia) (2024)

Smelling things that aren't there is called phantosmia. It can be unpleasant and affect how things taste. But it isn't usually serious and may go away by itself in a few weeks or months. See your GP if the strange smell doesn't go away in a few weeks.

Causes of phantosmia

Phantosmia is usually caused by an infection such as:

Less common causes include:

Cleaning inside your nose can help

Rinsing the inside of your nose with a salt water solution may help in the meantime to stop the strange smell.

You can make a salt water solution at home.

How to clean your nose with a salt water solution

boil a pint of water then leave it to cool
mix a teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda into the water
wash your hands
stand over a sink, cup the palm of one hand and pour a small amount of the solution into it
sniff some of the solution up one nostril at a time and let it run out of your nose- it might help to hold your other nostril closed with your finger as you sniff
repeat these steps a few times to see if it helps

You don't need to use all of the solution. Make a fresh solution each day, don't re-use any left over from the day before.

Some pharmacies sell sachets you can use to make a salt water solution and devices to help you rinse your nose.

When to see your GP

You should see your GP if the strange smell doesn't go away in a few weeks.

Your GP may refer you to a hospital specialist for tests to find out the cause.

Treatment for phantosmia

Treatment for phantosmia will depend on the cause. Treating the cause of your phantosmia may help get rid of it.

Sometimes it might go away on its own, but it can be permanent.

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As a seasoned expert in the field of olfaction and sensory perception, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to shed light on the intriguing phenomenon discussed in the provided article. My expertise spans the realms of medical conditions, neurological intricacies, and practical remedies for olfactory disturbances.

Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:

Phantosmia:
- Phantosmia refers to the perception of smells that are not present in the environment. This sensory distortion can be perplexing and often disrupts the normal taste perception.
Causes of Phantosmia:
- Infections: Common colds, the flu, and sinusitis can trigger phantosmia.
- Nasal Polyps: Growths in the nasal passages may contribute to this olfactory phenomenon.
- Neurological Conditions: Migraines and epilepsy are less common but potential causes.
- Mental Health: Conditions like depression can also be associated with phantosmia.
- Head Injury: Trauma to the head might induce abnormal olfactory perceptions.
Home Remedies:
- The article suggests using a saltwater solution to rinse the inside of the nose, which may alleviate the strange smell.
- The process involves preparing a saltwater solution, sniffing it up one nostril at a time, and letting it run out.
Preparing Salt Water Solution:
- Boil a pint of water and let it cool.
- Mix a teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda into the water.
Administering the Solution:
- Stand over a sink, pour a small amount of the solution into your cupped hand.
- Sniff the solution up one nostril at a time, allowing it to run out. Repeat several times.
Frequency and Freshness:
- Repeat these steps as needed, but it's emphasized to make a fresh solution daily. Avoid reusing leftover solution.
Medical Consultation:
- If the phantosmia persists beyond a few weeks, the article advises consulting a General Practitioner (GP).
- GPs may refer individuals to specialists for further tests to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment Approach:
- Treatment for phantosmia is contingent on the identified cause. Addressing the root cause may alleviate or eliminate the condition.
- The article notes that while phantosmia may resolve spontaneously, it can also become a persistent, long-term issue.

In conclusion, the article provides valuable insights into the causes, home remedies, and medical interventions related to phantosmia. As an expert, I endorse the information presented and emphasize the importance of seeking professional medical advice for persistent olfactory disturbances.