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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Experiencing Burning Metal Smell And Difficulty Breathing?

Hello. For the past year, I have been dealing with a nearly debilitating and overwhelming smell of smoke and burning metal. I have been getting bronchitis repetitively for the past couple of years. Recently while I was taking some classes, I was surrounded by several sick classmates, as well as the instructor (who was sick for nearly 3 weeks). Since then, I have been smelling burning metal and have trouble breathing. I also had a tooth extracted (with both laughing gas and IV sedation) about 3 weeks ago as well. I can t see my doctor for another week and don t know how I will get through each day with this horrible smell. I am loosing my ability to smell or taste things as well. Please help if you can.... Linda
posted on Tue, 4 Nov 2014
Twitter Mon, 6 Nov 2017 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 7 Nov 2017 Last reviewed on
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Dentist,  's  Response
Hi Dear,

Welcome to HCM.

Understanding your concern. As per your query you are experiencing burning metal smell and difficulty breathing. Well there can be many reasons for symptoms you mention in query like acid reflux , chest infection , sleeping apnea or cardiac problem. Eat light and non spicy food. I would suggest you to consult chest specialist for proper examination . Doctor may order chest x-ray , check vitals and blood test . Doctor may also order sleep study to rule out sleep apnea . Doctor may refer you to gastroenterologist for acid reflux problem . Doctor may also recommend CPAP machine for sleep apnea . For now eat light and non spicy specially at night , take steam , take antacid after every meal and keep your head elevated while lying down. Drink green tea few times a day.

Hope your concern has been resolved.

Get Well Soon.

Best Wishes,
Dr. Harry Maheshwari
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What Causes Experiencing Burning Metal Smell And Difficulty Breathing?

Hi Dear, Welcome to HCM. Understanding your concern. As per your query you are experiencing burning metal smell and difficulty breathing. Well there can be many reasons for symptoms you mention in query like acid reflux , chest infection , sleeping apnea or cardiac problem. Eat light and non spicy food. I would suggest you to consult chest specialist for proper examination . Doctor may order chest x-ray , check vitals and blood test . Doctor may also order sleep study to rule out sleep apnea . Doctor may refer you to gastroenterologist for acid reflux problem . Doctor may also recommend CPAP machine for sleep apnea . For now eat light and non spicy specially at night , take steam , take antacid after every meal and keep your head elevated while lying down. Drink green tea few times a day. Hope your concern has been resolved. Get Well Soon. Best Wishes, Dr. Harry Maheshwari