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What Causes A Foul Smell In The Nostrils?

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Posted on Tue, 27 Oct 2015
Question: hi
i have observed that when I prick my left nostril there is a foul smell that I feel. Is there any solution for this.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (52 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
The foul smell indicates some infection or inflammation.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. The foul smell is usually from retained secretions due to some underlying obstruction. This may result from a mild infection or inflammation. The other possibility is a faint smell of nitrous oxide normally found in the sinuses.

2. The olfactory mucosa is only in the roof of the nose. Hence the slight movement in the nasal vestibule releases some of these by products of infection or inflammation which trigger the smell.

3. Get the nose examined with a nasal endoscopy if possible. Sinusitis can be excluded by a Sinus CT. Arophic rhinitis, any mass or a foreign body should be ruled out as thus a one sided symptom.

4. Initially, regular steam inhalation and saline nasal washes will help. Further medication can be decided based upon the findings.

I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more questions I will be available to answer them.

Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Sumit Bhatti

Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 2685 Questions

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What Causes A Foul Smell In The Nostrils?

Brief Answer: The foul smell indicates some infection or inflammation. Detailed Answer: Hi, Thank you for your query. 1. The foul smell is usually from retained secretions due to some underlying obstruction. This may result from a mild infection or inflammation. The other possibility is a faint smell of nitrous oxide normally found in the sinuses. 2. The olfactory mucosa is only in the roof of the nose. Hence the slight movement in the nasal vestibule releases some of these by products of infection or inflammation which trigger the smell. 3. Get the nose examined with a nasal endoscopy if possible. Sinusitis can be excluded by a Sinus CT. Arophic rhinitis, any mass or a foreign body should be ruled out as thus a one sided symptom. 4. Initially, regular steam inhalation and saline nasal washes will help. Further medication can be decided based upon the findings. I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more questions I will be available to answer them. Regards.