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What Causes Altered Sense Of Smell And Lightheadedness?
Question: My 27 year old woke up with a strong smell he said is similar to sulfer. Went to work and is still smelling it also little light headed. I did recommend ENT but he is in Florida and doesn't have a doctor. I'm in my. Hospital close do you think he can wait or go to ER?
Thank you so much. He is living in Florida and works at a restaurant and will ask about solvents. I am in New York so getting this call I didn't know if it was serious. So really thank you!
Thank you so much. He is living in Florida and works at a restaurant and will ask about solvents. I am in New York so getting this call I didn't know if it was serious. So really thank you!
Brief Answer:
Not an emergency, but if it continues, he should see an ENT.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
I'm sorry that your son is having this problem. He doesn't need to go to the ER but if he will return home soon, he can see an ENT doctor if it continues.
There are many reasons for perceiving an unusual smell. Causes include a recent illness, including upper respiratory infections (such as sinus infections) or other health problems, or a head injury. Sinus polyps and dental problems can cause this too. Regarding other health problem that can cause a smell disorder, it would be very unlikely that a person would suddenly wake up one day with it.
Outside of physical causes, exposure to certain chemicals, in particular solvents and pesticides can cause unusual perception of odors. Sometimes taking medications can do this too.
He can consider whether any of these causes apply to him.
An ENT can do special sniff tests and other tests and examine him for upper respiratory causes if the problem continues.
I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information.
Brief Answer:
Your welcome!
Detailed Answer:
It is always a bit nerve wracking getting a health related call when one's kid isn't nearby!
If it persists though, he should be seen.
Best regards,
Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, MD
Not an emergency, but if it continues, he should see an ENT.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
I'm sorry that your son is having this problem. He doesn't need to go to the ER but if he will return home soon, he can see an ENT doctor if it continues.
There are many reasons for perceiving an unusual smell. Causes include a recent illness, including upper respiratory infections (such as sinus infections) or other health problems, or a head injury. Sinus polyps and dental problems can cause this too. Regarding other health problem that can cause a smell disorder, it would be very unlikely that a person would suddenly wake up one day with it.
Outside of physical causes, exposure to certain chemicals, in particular solvents and pesticides can cause unusual perception of odors. Sometimes taking medications can do this too.
He can consider whether any of these causes apply to him.
An ENT can do special sniff tests and other tests and examine him for upper respiratory causes if the problem continues.
I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information.
Brief Answer:
Your welcome!
Detailed Answer:
It is always a bit nerve wracking getting a health related call when one's kid isn't nearby!
If it persists though, he should be seen.
Best regards,
Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, MD
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
Answered by
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