OpenHealth Q&A

Overwhelmed by an Intensified Sense of Smell

I am a 47-year-old woman, do not smoke, drink occasionally, and take no medication. Throughout my life, I've always had a keen sense of smell, but lately, it feels like it has intensified to an unpleasant degree. I detect foul odors in various settings—my workplace, specific areas within my home, my vehicle, and even in the homes of others. Generally, these odors go unnoticed by people around me, though on rare occasions, one or two individuals can sense what I'm perceiving. I don't believe these odors are figments of my imagination. They do not surround me everywhere I go, yet when they are present, I consistently recognize them. For instance, one of my cars has a distinctly musty odor that only one other person has acknowledged, while our other car remains completely odor-free. Only certain locations consistently exhibit these unpleasant scents. It's plausible that I'm simply more sensitive to smells than others. I suspect that these particular spaces might have undergone water damage or dealt with rodent issues in the past; however, if that is the case, those problems are likely resolved and the odors remain undetectable to most. The presence of these smells causes me significant discomfort and a feeling of unease. Even neutral or mild scents can provoke an unsettling reaction. Although I've dealt with this to some extent throughout my life, the intensity of my reactions has increased considerably. It's curious to reflect on my college days spent in some questionable, older residences where I didn't seem to mind the scents as much, even if they weren’t always pleasant. I genuinely wish to find a way to lessen my sensitivity to these smells or at least diminish the distress they bring. Is there a method to address this heightened olfactory sensitivity, or is it something I must learn to accept? Additionally, could this amplified sense of smell be indicative of an underlying health issue? I can confirm that pregnancy is not a possibility for me.

Answers (1)

7/5/2025, 11:30:44 PM

OpenHealth AI

Main Points: You are experiencing heightened sensitivity to smells that is causing discomfort, and this could be related to various factors. While it’s possible this sensitivity is just increased perception, there are steps you can take to help manage it.

Explanation: Heightened sensitivity to smells, known as hyperosmia, can occur for several reasons, including hormonal changes, environmental factors, or even stress and anxiety. Your history of keen smell may mean you are simply more sensitive, but the intensification of your reactions is worth exploring. Persistent or increased sensitivity can sometimes be associated with underlying health issues, such as migraines or certain neurological conditions, but it might also just be a change in your sensory perception.

Next Steps:

1. Identify Triggers: Keep a log of the specific odors you encounter, noting the locations, situations, and your emotional reactions. This could help you identify patterns or common elements contributing to your discomfort.

2. Improve Air Quality: Ensure your living and working environments are well-ventilated. Consider using air purifiers or dehumidifiers if moisture or mustiness is a concern, especially in areas you’ve identified as problematic.

3. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Since sensory overload can heighten discomfort, techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or yoga may help you manage feelings of unease when odors arise.

4. Limit Exposure: Whenever possible, try to avoid environments or locations that you know trigger your sensitivity, especially if these are within your control.

5. Seek Support: If the issue continues or worsens, consider discussing these experiences with a healthcare provider who can help rule out any underlying conditions and offer further tailored suggestions.

Remember, your comfort is important, and finding ways to navigate this sensitivity can help improve your overall well-being. It's also valuable to be patient as you explore these options.