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What Causes Perception Of Abnormal Smell?

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Posted on Mon, 4 Jul 2016
Question: What does it mean when a person thinks she smells cigarette smoke all the time, even when no smoke is anywhere near?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (13 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Get examined by neurologist for requirement of any brain imaging

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.
Perception of abnormal smell without any such smell can be due to parosmia.
Is there any loss of smell sensation, headache, visual loss, walking difficulties, tremlousness of limbs, urinary complains?
You should visit a neurologist or ENT specialist for evaluation and investigation.
Brain imaging may be required if some positive findings present on examination.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Do get back to me for further queries.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Neurologist
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Neeraj Kumar (4 hours later)
She has none of the other symptoms you asked about.
By the way, I guessed wrong about her age. She is 51
She has abnormal swelling under her right cheekbone
This has been going on for at least 2 weeks. She HATES cigarette smoke.
Thank you for your prompt and useful reply
doctor
Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (13 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Consult an ENT specialist for examination and investigation

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
In case of swelling in the cheek region, consultation of an ENT specialist is required to evaluate for any sinus infection or mass lesion.
Imaging of skull for sinus and base of skull region is required.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
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. Prasad
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Answered by
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Dr. Neeraj Kumar

Neurologist

Practicing since :2006

Answered : 2259 Questions

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What Causes Perception Of Abnormal Smell?

Brief Answer: Get examined by neurologist for requirement of any brain imaging Detailed Answer: Hello, I have gone through your question and understand your concerns. Perception of abnormal smell without any such smell can be due to parosmia. Is there any loss of smell sensation, headache, visual loss, walking difficulties, tremlousness of limbs, urinary complains? You should visit a neurologist or ENT specialist for evaluation and investigation. Brain imaging may be required if some positive findings present on examination. Hope you found the answer helpful. Do get back to me for further queries. Regards Dr N Kumar Neurologist