Persistent Mildew Odor: Seeking Solutions
At 41 years old and living a healthy lifestyle—non-smoker, minimal alcohol consumption, and no illicit drug use—I’ve been grappling with an intermittent and perplexing issue for nearly 15 years. Occasionally, I detect an unsettling odor reminiscent of mildew or mold. The closest analogy I can offer is the scent of a damp basement or a waterlogged book that has seen better days. While this peculiar smell often subsides with time and saline nasal irrigations, there are instances where it intensifies, taking on a more unpleasant odor similar to feces. I have consulted various healthcare professionals, including my primary care physician, ear, nose, and throat specialists, as well as dentists; however, none have managed to identify the root cause of my condition. I recently underwent a CT scan of my sinuses, yet an ENT specialist informed me that there were no visible abnormalities to account for my symptoms. He mentioned that a past head injury might contribute to olfactory issues but provided no real solutions beyond nasal sprays and humidifiers. Is there a different type of specialist I should consider? This has been ongoing for weeks, and unlike previous episodes, it hasn’t dissipated—I'm starting to feel quite frustrated by the situation...
Answers (1)
3/29/2025, 2:30:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been experiencing a frustrating and persistent issue with an unusual smell that has various characteristics. Given the complexity and duration of your symptoms, there are a few potential directions we can consider.
The first thing to note is that olfactory issues can arise from various causes, including sinusitis, allergies, or even neurological factors, especially after a head injury. The fact that saline nasal irrigations help sometimes suggests that mucosal irritation could be involved, but since you've ruled out structural issues with a CT scan, it may be time to look at other possibilities.
Here are some prioritized next steps to consider:
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Consider seeing an Allergist: Given the smell's potential connection to respiratory triggers, an allergist could conduct tests to determine if specific allergens are causing nasal inflammation, leading to olfactory changes.
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Consult a Neurologist: If your past head injury is suggested to play a role in your olfactory perception, a neurologist can evaluate for any neurological causes affecting your sense of smell.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Start tracking when the odor occurs, its intensity, associated symptoms, and any environmental factors. This documentation can help healthcare providers identify patterns or triggers.
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Environmental Assessment: Assess whether there might be mold or damp conditions in your home that could contribute to your symptoms. Using a dehumidifier or ensuring proper ventilation could help in reducing moisture levels.
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Avoid Irritants: Continue using saline nasal irrigations and steer clear of known irritants (such as strong odors, smoke, or chemicals) that might exacerbate symptoms.
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Explore Dietary Factors: Certain food intolerances or gastrointestinal issues could contribute to a change in smell perception. Consider noting any dietary habits that coincide with the experience of the odor.
Each of these steps can help clarify the situation further. It’s understandable to feel frustrated, but you are taking a proactive approach by seeking solutions. Please remember to give yourself patience as you explore these options further. Let me know if you would like more detailed information about any of these steps.
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