A typical manifestation of rhinitis is a violation of the olfactory function. A person has difficulty distinguishing aromas, which is due to swelling of the mucous membrane and severe rhinorrhea. What does the appearance of a bloody smell indicate? How dangerous is this? The causes of the smell of blood in the nose have different origins; let’s look at the most common ones.
To choose the right therapy, you need to consult a doctor. Thanks to a complete examination, the specialist determines the cause of the disease and determines treatment tactics. Diagnosis is carried out by an ENT doctor, but if necessary, consultation with a neurologist and oncologist may be required.
Among the possible reasons, it is worth focusing on:
- injuries to the olfactory zone in the nose;
- drug poisoning;
- oncological brain tumors;
- peripheral nerve damage;
- alcoholism;
- traumatic brain injuries;
- chronic nasopharyngitis.
Nervous system disorders
A person is able to distinguish odors thanks to the olfactory analyzer, which consists of special cells in the nasal cavities, as well as recognition structures in the brain and the olfactory nerve. Considering the mechanism of odor perception, it is worth noting that a malfunction in the nervous system can occur both in its central and peripheral parts. As a result, there may be a disturbance in the sense of smell, up to its complete absence (anosmia).
Pathology of the central part
A disorder of smell can be observed against the background of pathology of the nervous system. The nature of the disturbances may indicate a specific localization of the pathological focus or indicate extensive damage to the nervous tissue.
If brain cancer is suspected, olfactory dysfunction is a manifestation of damage to the cranial fossa. Symptomatically the disease is characterized by:
- olfactory hallucinations;
- mental disorder;
- headache;
- dizziness;
- visual dysfunction;
- sleep disturbance;
- epileptic seizures.
Similar symptoms may occur in the postoperative period when surgery was performed in the area of the cranial anterior fossa. Indications for surgery include brain tumors, vascular diseases (aneurysms), and head injuries.
Olfactory hallucinations are also observed during the inflammatory process in the brain tissue (arachnoencephalitis), Alzheimer's disease, and hereditary predisposition.
Peripheral damage
The trigeminal and glossopharyngeal nerves take part in the process of smell recognition. Clinically, their damage is manifested by painful sensations along the nerve fibers and olfactory dysfunction. A complete absence of smell is observed when the facial nerve is damaged.
The smell of blood in the nose can appear against the background of functional disorders and neuroses. Separately, it is worth highlighting senile impairment of smell. With age, atrophic processes in the fibers of the olfactory nerve progress.
The sensitivity of smell is much higher among representatives of the fairer sex, so they sense aromas better.
Inflammatory damage to the trigeminal nerve is accompanied by:
- attacks of pain within a few minutes. Localization of pain is one of the sides of the face. Eating solid food, talking, or cooling the area in a draft can provoke the appearance of painful sensations;
- sleep disturbance;
- a change in the perception of aromas, when a person is not able to accurately distinguish odors.
Treatment tactics include the following:
- Finlepsina. The drug belongs to antiepileptic drugs;
- antineuralgic medications;
- physiotherapeutic procedures, for example, UHF, electrophoresis with novocaine, dry heat.
As for damage to the facial nerve, the disease is often caused by hypothermia. Clinical symptoms are presented:
- impaired sensitivity and motor ability of the facial muscles, which causes its asymmetry;
- change in facial expressions. A person cannot puff out his cheeks, frown his brows, or bare his teeth;
- dry conjunctiva or lacrimation (this depends on the location of the nerve damage);
- dysosmia with possible sensation of bloody smell;
- soreness in front of the ear, in the mastoid area.
The complex of treatment measures includes:
- prescription of anti-inflammatory drugs. Their action is aimed at reducing swelling, inflammation and pain of the nerve;
- B vitamins (Milgamma, Combilipen) - for nutrition, restoration of nervous tissue;
- corticosteroids, the action of which is aimed at blocking the inflammatory process;
- diuretic medications necessary to reduce tissue swelling;
- Prozerin - to restore tone.
Thermal procedures are carried out on the affected facial part for 10 days, after which massage and therapeutic exercises are prescribed. Physiotherapeutic procedures also include applications (paraffin, ozokerite, mud), electrophoresis, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and acupuncture.
The smell of blood in the nose and the feeling that it will come - causes and treatment 2020
A typical manifestation of rhinitis is a violation of the olfactory function. A person has difficulty distinguishing aromas, which is due to swelling of the mucous membrane and severe rhinorrhea. What does the appearance of a bloody smell indicate? How dangerous is this? The causes of the smell of blood in the nose have different origins; let’s look at the most common ones.
To choose the right therapy, you need to consult a doctor. Thanks to a complete examination, the specialist determines the cause of the disease and determines treatment tactics.
Diagnosis is carried out by an ENT doctor, but if necessary, consultation with a neurologist and oncologist may be required.
Among the possible reasons, it is worth focusing on:
injuries to the olfactory zone in the nose; drug poisoning; oncological brain tumors; peripheral nerve damage; alcoholism; traumatic brain injuries; chronic nasopharyngitis.
Nervous system disorders
A person is able to distinguish odors thanks to the olfactory analyzer, which consists of special cells in the nasal cavities, as well as recognition structures in the brain and the olfactory nerve.
Considering the mechanism of odor perception, it is worth noting that a malfunction in the nervous system can occur both in its central and peripheral parts.
As a result, there may be a disturbance in the sense of smell, up to its complete absence (anosmia).
Pathology of the central part
A disorder of smell can be observed against the background of pathology of the nervous system. The nature of the disturbances may indicate a specific localization of the pathological focus or indicate extensive damage to the nervous tissue.
If brain cancer is suspected, olfactory dysfunction is a manifestation of damage to the cranial fossa. Symptomatically the disease is characterized by:
olfactory hallucinations; mental disorder; headache; dizziness; visual dysfunction; sleep disturbance; epileptic seizures.
Similar symptoms may occur in the postoperative period when surgery was performed in the area of the cranial anterior fossa. Indications for surgery include brain tumors, vascular diseases (aneurysms), and head injuries.
Olfactory hallucinations are also observed during the inflammatory process in the brain tissue (arachnoencephalitis), Alzheimer's disease, and hereditary predisposition.
Peripheral damage
The trigeminal and glossopharyngeal nerves take part in the process of smell recognition. Clinically, their damage is manifested by painful sensations along the nerve fibers and olfactory dysfunction. A complete absence of smell is observed when the facial nerve is damaged.
The smell of blood in the nose can appear against the background of functional disorders and neuroses. Separately, it is worth highlighting senile impairment of smell. With age, atrophic processes in the fibers of the olfactory nerve progress.
The sensitivity of smell is much higher among representatives of the fairer sex, so they sense aromas better.
Inflammatory damage to the trigeminal nerve is accompanied by:
attacks of pain within a few minutes. Localization of pain is one of the sides of the face. Eating solid food, talking, or cooling the area in a draft can provoke the appearance of painful sensations; sleep disturbance; a change in the perception of aromas, when a person is not able to accurately distinguish odors.
Treatment tactics include the following:
Finlepsina. The drug belongs to antiepileptic drugs; antineuralgic medications; physiotherapeutic procedures, for example, UHF, electrophoresis with novocaine, dry heat.
As for damage to the facial nerve, the disease is often caused by hypothermia. Clinical symptoms are presented:
impaired sensitivity and motor ability of the facial muscles, which causes its asymmetry; change in facial expressions. A person cannot puff out his cheeks, frown his brows, or bare his teeth; dry conjunctiva or lacrimation (this depends on the location of the nerve damage); dysosmia with possible sensation of bloody smell; soreness in front of the ear, in the mastoid area.
The complex of treatment measures includes:
prescription of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Their action is aimed at reducing swelling, inflammation and pain of the nerve; B vitamins (Milgamma, Combilipen) - for nutrition, restoration of nervous tissue; corticosteroids, the action of which is aimed at blocking the inflammatory process; diuretic medications necessary to reduce tissue swelling; Prozerin - to restore tone.
Thermal procedures are carried out on the affected facial part for 10 days, after which massage and therapeutic exercises are prescribed. Physiotherapeutic procedures also include applications (paraffin, ozokerite, mud), electrophoresis, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and acupuncture.
What causes the smell of ammonia and acetone?
The smell appears for various reasons. There is a whole variety of mechanisms for the development of this symptom. It is worth noting that the smell of acetone in the nose is a consequence of the presence of a specific pathology. The sensation of acetone, as well as ammonia, can be caused by many ailments.
The first mechanism of action is directly related to the development of pathogenic microflora in the nose area. The mucous membrane is populated by an abundance of all kinds of microorganisms.
As long as a person’s immunity is strong, it easily restrains the growth of single-celled parasites, preventing them from growing.
But as soon as the immune system fails, bacteria can begin to actively multiply and produce large amounts of pathogenic waste products into the nasal cavity. Many of them can smell extremely unpleasant.
If the causes of the unpleasant odor lie in bacteria, then such a smell in the nose will be felt by the person and others.
When an unpleasant odor is heard only by a person, but others do not feel it, then we are talking about a disorder of smell.
There are quite a few reasons for this: injuries, along with the abuse of vasoconstrictor medications, colds, otolaryngological diseases with a runny nose, and so on.
Acetone breathing from the nose in a person appears in the following case: when the concentration of acetone in the blood increases above normal. This may only occur in about 10% of cases. Basically, when people complain about the smell of ammonia, doctors suspect nasal disease in 80% of cases. And in 10% of situations we are talking about pathologies in the oral cavity.
There are often cases where the smell of ammonia in the nose may not haunt a person all the time, but only in certain situations or at some time of the day.
And sometimes it is nothing more than a hallucination that occurs against the background of brain damage and certain mental pathologies.
When it comes to children, it is possible that a foreign body has entered the nose, and the child’s body simply reacts to this factor. Actually, this can also happen with adult patients.
Malignant lesion of the nasopharynx
The reasons for the formation of a malignant focus in the area of the nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses are not fully understood. Among the factors that increase the risk of cancer pathology, it is worth highlighting:
long smoking history; alcohol abuse; addiction to hot, spicy foods; chronic inflammatory diseases of the nasopharynx of an infectious nature; ionizing radiation; occupational hazards (excessive exposure to sunlight, heat); hereditary predisposition.
There are several classifications of malignant diseases, which are based on the cellular structure of the tumor and the prevalence of the oncological process.
The clinical picture of the disease consists of:
nasal manifestations.
This group includes periodic bleeding, nasal congestion, nasal sound, the smell of blood in the nose, putrid odor from the mouth, pain in the paranasal area; ear signs (pain in the ear area, auditory dysfunction, noise, ringing in the ears); neurological symptoms, which include frequent headaches, speech impairment, swallowing, sensitivity disorders, and motor ability of the facial muscles.
The risk of bleeding increases significantly with thrombocytopenia (a decrease in the number of platelets, which are part of the clotting system).
When the process is advanced, the malignant neoplasm spreads to surrounding tissues, causing:
visual dysfunction; taste disorder; breathing problems; dry mucous membranes or excessive salivation; damage to regional lymph nodes. They become enlarged, dense and immobile due to adhesion to neighboring tissues.
When the tumor metastasizes to internal organs, their dysfunction is noted. Nowadays, malignant pathology is often diagnosed at the stage of metastases. A third of cases are characterized by bilateral lymph node involvement.
In nasopharyngeal cancer, metastatic foci primarily affect the liver, bone structures, and lung tissue. As the disease progresses, cancer intoxication develops and body weight decreases.
The diagnosis is made based on the analysis of anamnestic data, complaints, as well as diagnostic results. At the appointment, the doctor examines the affected area and conducts a physical examination.
Similar symptoms may occur in the postoperative period when surgery was performed in the area of the cranial anterior fossa. Indications for surgery include brain tumors, vascular diseases (aneurysms), and head injuries.
Olfactory hallucinations are also observed during the inflammatory process in the brain tissue (arachnoencephalitis), Alzheimer's disease, and hereditary predisposition.
Stopping methods
Treatment of nosebleeds should begin with the diagnosis of diseases and pathological processes that led to the development of this symptom.
First aid for nosebleeds
Depending on the type of bleeding, its abundance and duration, therapeutic measures are selected to eliminate it.
Self-help measures, or until medical control of bleeding | Medical therapeutic methods to stop bleeding |
1. You must take a semi-sitting position. Legs should be down. This position will reduce tension in the blood vessels of the brain. |
2. The head should be turned in the opposite direction from the nasal sinus from which the blood flows.
3. Throwing your head back during a nosebleed is strictly prohibited. In this position of the head, blood may begin to flow into the respiratory passages.
4.Place a cotton or gauze swab into the bleeding nostril, which must be moistened in a solution of hydrogen peroxide.
Source: https://bugmk.ru/lor-zabolevaniya/zapah-iz-nosa.html
Malignant lesion of the nasopharynx
The reasons for the formation of a malignant focus in the area of the nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses are not fully understood. Among the factors that increase the risk of cancer pathology, it is worth highlighting:
- long smoking history;
- alcohol abuse;
- addiction to hot, spicy foods;
- chronic inflammatory diseases of the nasopharynx of an infectious nature;
- ionizing radiation;
- occupational hazards (excessive exposure to sunlight, heat);
- hereditary predisposition.
There are several classifications of malignant diseases, which are based on the cellular structure of the tumor and the prevalence of the oncological process.
The clinical picture of the disease consists of:
- nasal manifestations. This group includes periodic bleeding, nasal congestion, nasal sound, the smell of blood in the nose, putrid odor from the mouth, pain in the paranasal area;
- ear signs (pain in the ear area, auditory dysfunction, noise, ringing in the ears);
- neurological symptoms, which include frequent headaches, speech impairment, swallowing, sensitivity disorders, and motor ability of the facial muscles.
The risk of bleeding increases significantly with thrombocytopenia (a decrease in the number of platelets, which are part of the clotting system).
When the process is advanced, the malignant neoplasm spreads to surrounding tissues, causing:
- visual dysfunction;
- taste disorder;
- breathing problems;
- dry mucous membranes or excessive salivation;
- damage to regional lymph nodes. They become enlarged, dense and immobile due to adhesion to neighboring tissues.
When the tumor metastasizes to internal organs, their dysfunction is noted. Nowadays, malignant pathology is often diagnosed at the stage of metastases. A third of cases are characterized by bilateral lymph node involvement.
In nasopharyngeal cancer, metastatic foci primarily affect the liver, bone structures, and lung tissue. As the disease progresses, cancer intoxication develops and body weight decreases.
The diagnosis is made based on the analysis of anamnestic data, complaints, as well as diagnostic results. At the appointment, the doctor examines the affected area and conducts a physical examination.
Then rhino- and pharyngoscopy are prescribed, during which a neoplasm is detected. To assess the extent of the oncological process, radiography, computed tomography, ultrasound, and MRI are performed. The listed instrumental techniques make it possible to determine the type of formation and analyze the condition of surrounding organs.
A neurological examination makes it possible to determine the extent of damage to the cranial nerves. Treatment options include:
- irradiation;
- chemotherapy;
- surgical intervention (with a limited process).
Treatment of the disease
With proper therapy, recovery occurs within a week. The doctor chooses the method of treatment based on the nature of the disease. If the disease is caused by a bacterial infection, you cannot do without antibiotics. As a rule, broad-spectrum drugs are used. Additionally, antiviral agents, immunostimulants, and vitamins may be prescribed. If the body temperature is high, antipyretic drugs must be used.
When nasal breathing is difficult, vasoconstrictor drugs are often used. However, you should not get carried away with such medications. They can be addictive. In addition, after taking such drops, you may experience a smell of blood in the nose and dizziness.
Dysosmia
Dysosmia (perverted sense of aromas) can lead to the smell of blood. Smell disorder occurs due to:
- hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy;
- age-related changes in the structure of nerve endings;
- long-term smoking;
- receptor damage (allergy, infection, toxic effects of medications);
- damage to brain structures, peripheral nerves due to diabetes, epilepsy, neuritis, trauma, tumors, Parkinson's disease.
Treatment is prescribed depending on the cause of olfactory dysfunction.
Why does my nose smell like blood?
A typical manifestation of rhinitis is a violation of the olfactory function. A person has difficulty distinguishing aromas, which is due to swelling of the mucous membrane and severe rhinorrhea. What does the appearance of a bloody smell indicate? How dangerous is this? The causes of the smell of blood in the nose have different origins; let’s look at the most common ones.
To choose the right therapy, you need to consult a doctor. Thanks to a complete examination, the specialist determines the cause of the disease and determines treatment tactics. Diagnosis is carried out by an ENT doctor, but if necessary, consultation with a neurologist and oncologist may be required.
Among the possible reasons, it is worth focusing on:
- injuries to the olfactory zone in the nose;
- drug poisoning;
- oncological brain tumors;
- peripheral nerve damage;
- alcoholism;
- traumatic brain injuries;
- chronic nasopharyngitis.
Nasopharyngitis
In rare cases, a sensation of bloody odor is observed with chronic inflammation of the nasopharyngeal mucosa. Chronicization of the process occurs against the background of immunodeficiency. This may be a severe infection (AIDS), systemic diseases of autoimmune origin, or taking strong medications (chemotherapy, long-term antibacterial, hormonal therapy).
Exacerbation of chronic nasopharyngitis occurs after hypothermia, inhalation of cold air or consumption of chilled drinks.
Regardless of the cause of the smell of blood in the nasal cavities, this is considered a pathology and requires mandatory consultation with a specialist. By diagnosing the disease in a timely manner, you can avoid its progression and complications.
Galaktionova Svetlana
Sources: medscape.com, health.harvard.edu, medicalnewstoday.com.
Source: https://globalmedclub.ru/simptomnos/oschuscheniya/prichiny-zapaha-krovi-v-nosu.html
Nasopharyngitis
In rare cases, a sensation of bloody odor is observed with chronic inflammation of the nasopharyngeal mucosa. Chronicization of the process occurs against the background of immunodeficiency. This may be a severe infection (AIDS), systemic diseases of autoimmune origin, or taking strong medications (chemotherapy, long-term antibacterial, hormonal therapy).
Exacerbation of chronic nasopharyngitis occurs after hypothermia, inhalation of cold air or consumption of chilled drinks.
Regardless of the cause of the smell of blood in the nasal cavities, this is considered a pathology and requires mandatory consultation with a specialist. By diagnosing the disease in a timely manner, you can avoid its progression and complications.
The smell of blood in the nose is an absolute sign of pathology; normally, such a sensation should not be present.
The causes of the smell of blood in the nose are quite varied: diseases of the nervous system, pathology of the nasal mucosa, tumors, inflammatory diseases.
Causes of the smell of blood
The smell of blood in the nose, at first glance, seems to be a very harmless condition. However, the reasons that cause it can be quite serious .
The appearance of a specific odor may be the result of a rupture of a small vessel , which indicates weak capillaries. In such cases, nosebleeds are not always observed .
Photo 1: Changes in the sense of smell can occur against the background of neurotic disorders. A person feels non-existent odors, but there are no secretions. Olfactory hallucinations not only cause discomfort, but can also be a symptom of serious illnesses. Source: flickr (Clean Green)
The smell of blood in the nose as a symptom of disease
A metallic taste in the nose may be a symptom of the following diseases and conditions:
- chronic rhinitis or nasopharyngitis;
- malignant or benign brain formations;
- administration of medications;
- acute hypertensive encephalopathy;
- chronic alcoholism;
- consequences of traumatic brain injury.
Note! The metallic smell of blood is a symptom of inflammatory processes occurring in brain tissue, as well as Alzheimer's disease.
The smell of blood may indicate the formation of a malignant focus in the nasopharynx . You should start sounding the alarm if you notice the following symptoms:
- the appearance of a blood taste;
- metallic taste in the mouth;
- nasal congestion;
- voice change;
- pain in the nasal cavity;
- the appearance of extraneous noise in the ears;
- auditory hallucinations;
- attacks of headache;
- loss of sensitivity in the facial muscles;
- speech disorder.
Note! The frequency of nosebleeds increases due to thrombocytopenia, a blood clotting disorder, which leads to the appearance of a peculiar aroma in the nose.
The appearance of the smell of blood can occur against the background of dysosmia , a disease in which the sense of aromas is impaired. Conditions that cause this olfactory disorder:
- pregnancy;
- long smoking history;
- poisoning with potent drugs;
- congenital pathologies of the nervous system.
Pathology of the central nervous system
We perceive odors using receptor cells on the mucous membrane of the nose. The impulse from them is transmitted through the conductive pathways to the brain. A pathological process can occur at any part of this path. As a result of irritation of nerve cells, there is a feeling that blood will come from the nose.
If the pathological process is located in the central nervous system, the patient experiences the following symptoms:
- The appearance of hallucinations in the form of smells that are actually absent.
- The mental state is disturbed, the emotional sphere changes.
- Headache or dizziness is almost always present.
- Visual perception is impaired.
- The rhythm of sleep and wakefulness changes.
- In severe cases, epileptic seizures and convulsions are observed.
Similar manifestations are typical for brain tumors, multiple sclerosis, and ischemic diseases. Sometimes they occur with aneurysms or after surgery. Less commonly, hallucinations are caused by Alzheimer's disease and encephalitis.
Headache and feeling of blood in the nose
Impaired sense of smell is a common problem faced by all patients with a runny nose. But the smell of blood in the nose can cause surprise and even panic. There are several factors that cause this abnormal phenomenon, so patients may need to consult not only an otolaryngologist, but possibly also a surgeon, neurologist, or oncologist.
Why is there a problem?
The main causes of the smell of blood in the nose:
- various injuries to the skull or the nose itself (in particular, its olfactory zone);
- poisoning (intoxication) with medications or alcohol;
- tumor formations localized in the brain;
- peripheral nerve damage;
- chronic nasopharyngitis (an inflammatory disease that affects the nasal mucosa).
Let us consider all the reasons for such an abnormal phenomenon as the smell of blood in the nose in more detail.
Neurological factors
Problems related to the nervous system are some of the common causes of the phenomenon.
Thus, a person perceives certain odors thanks to the existence of an olfactory analyzer (recognition structures are located in the brain and directly on the nasal mucosa).
Thus, disorders of both the central and peripheral nervous systems can lead to the appearance of a specific blood odor.
If a brain tumor has caused the problem (in this case, the cranial fossa, the area where the olfactory center is located, is affected), then, in addition to the haunting sensation of blood in the nose, the patient is faced with the following manifestations:
- behavioral disorders;
- problems with coordination of movements;
- constant headaches, dizziness, fainting;
- insomnia;
- visual dysfunction;
- less often – epileptic seizures.
The described symptoms often accompany the recovery period after brain surgery (if the surgery affected the area of the cranial fossa).
Neurological disorders are a common cause of bloody nose
The feeling of the smell of blood can occur due to inflammation of the brain tissue and appear in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Vascular pathologies of the brain can also cause this abnormal phenomenon.
In addition to the corresponding brain center, the glossopharyngeal and trigeminal nerves are responsible for recognizing certain odors. Thus, their defeat is accompanied by aching pain along the fibers and olfactory dysfunction.
Additional symptoms:
- severe pain syndrome (unpleasant sensations are characterized by asymmetric localization, determined only on one side of the face);
- insomnia;
- inability to clearly distinguish between certain aromas.
Neuroses and functional disorders are also the causes of the characteristic nasal odor. Natural age-related changes associated with atrophy (death) of olfactory nerve fibers should be included in a separate group of factors.
To combat inflammation of the trigeminal or facial nerve as a factor causing the appearance of bloody smell in the nose, it is worth:
- antineuralgic drugs;
- antiepileptic compounds (for example, Finlepsin);
- physiotherapeutic methods (dry heat is applied to the affected area, electrophoresis with novocaine is used, patients must attend UHF sessions).
In case of hypothermia of the facial nerve (also causes the problem under study), the following set of therapeutic and preventive measures is recommended:
- taking anti-inflammatory drugs (relieve swelling, eliminate pain) and B vitamins;
- with increased severity of symptoms - the use of corticosteroids (hormonal compounds that stop the inflammatory process);
- use of diuretics (diuretic medications).
Other causes of the phenomenon
Why else can a person be haunted by the smell of blood? There is such a disease as dysosmia - a perverted sense of aromas. This kind of functional disorder may result from:
- hormonal imbalance (for example, during pregnancy or menopause);
- natural age-related changes that leave an imprint on the structure of nerve endings;
- bad habits (smoking, alcohol abuse);
- prescription damage caused by taking certain medications, infectious processes, allergic reactions;
- disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system in epilepsy, trauma, diabetes, Parkinson's disease.
Treatment for dysosmia depends on the cause of the problem.
Source: https://indosti.ru/bolit-golova-i-oshhushhenie-krovi-v-nosu/
Diseases of the peripheral nervous system
The smell of blood in the nose may be associated with pathology of the conduction apparatus of the nervous system. The cranial nerves – the glossopharyngeal and, to a lesser extent, the trigeminal – are responsible for the conduction of smell.
Symptoms of peripheral nerve damage:
- Pain occurs on one side of the face.
- The patient is not only bothered by the smell of blood, but also the perception of normal odors is disrupted.
- Asymmetry of the facial muscles may appear and facial expressions may change.
- Watery or dry eyes occur.
- Pain in the mastoid region is characteristic.
These symptoms can occur with neuritis, injuries to cranial nerves, or the occurrence of tumors along the conduction apparatus.
Homeopathy for smelling blood in the nose
Homeopathic remedies are used to treat various conditions, which have a complex and gentle effect on the entire body . Correct and regular use of these drugs will not only relieve such an unpleasant symptom as the smell of blood in the nose, but will also help cope with the root cause .
Drugs | Purpose |
Calcarea ostrearum | For nasal congestion. Facilitates breathing, restores olfactory function, eliminates the taste of blood. Prevents nosebleeds. |
Pulsatilla | Eliminates the possibility of complications, frees the sinuses from mucus and pus. Makes breathing easier and restores the ability to smell. |
Natrium sulfuricum | For the treatment of chronic rhinitis. Removes dry nose and burning sensation, makes breathing easier. Eliminates unpleasant odors in the nose, thins mucus and promotes its removal. |
Hepar sulfuris | Chronic runny nose and possible complications. Removes mucus, makes breathing easier, restores olfactory function, relieves swelling, and relieves congestion. |
Lycopodium clavatum | Facilitates night breathing, relieves swelling, helps restore the ability to smell. |
Medorrhinum | Facilitates breathing, eliminates dryness and burning of the nasal cavity. |
Eucalyptus globulus | Liquefies mucus and promotes its gentle removal. |
Dysosmia
Doctors use this term to describe a perverted perception of aromas. As a result of dysosmia, a person may not only smell blood, but also smell others.
Some causes of this symptom:
- Hormonal pathology in women.
- Pregnancy in the first trimester.
- Old age – atrophy of nerve endings.
- Long-term smoking contributes to receptor damage.
- Allergic diseases, infectious processes.
- Impact of certain medications.
- Diabetes.
Dysosmia is a collective concept. In each specific case of odor distortion, different therapeutic methods must be used. The key is to treat the underlying condition.
Diagnostic methods
The patient needs to describe to the doctor the symptoms when an unpleasant odor is heard from the nose - only in the morning or evening, once or repeatedly. And under what circumstances does it appear - when sneezing, with a runny nose, when inhaling and exhaling, if there is a headache, discharge from the sinuses. A bad smell from the nose of a child, a baby, or a woman during pregnancy requires special attention and examination.
After this, the doctor will prescribe the following medical tests:
- UAC and BAC;
- snot culture;
- endoscopic examinations;
- CT;
- allergy tests;
- CT scan of the kidneys, brain, gastrointestinal tract studies for suspected tumors and disorders.
Tumors
Malignant neoplasms in the respiratory tract can cause bleeding or abnormal odor. In the latter case, the patient feels that blood is about to flow, but there is no bleeding.
Contribute to the development of nasal cancer:
- Hereditary predisposition.
- Chronic alcohol use.
- Smoking a lot of cigarettes over many years.
- Eating hot and spicy foods.
- Chronic infectious and allergic diseases of the nose.
- Exposure to radiation and radiation.
- Frequent exposure to direct sunlight.
- Impact of harmful production factors.
Clinical features of the pathology:
- The sense of smell perception is impaired, and the smell of blood appears.
- Bleeding and pain in the nose periodically bother me.
- Nasal congestion occurs when the lumen is blocked by a tumor.
- Local lymph nodes are enlarged.
- A slight fever and weakness appear.
- Appetite decreases, a person loses weight.
Nasopharyngeal cancer can metastasize to vital organs, so treatment of the pathology with the listed symptoms should begin as soon as possible.
Do you still think that it is difficult to cure your throat?
Judging by the fact that you are reading these lines now, victory in the fight against throat diseases is not yet on your side.
Have you already tried tablets, sprays and syrups? This is understandable, because the throat is a very important organ, and its proper functioning is the key to health and well-being. Hoarseness, increased fatigue, dryness, sore throat and sore throat when swallowing, bad breath. All these symptoms are familiar to you firsthand.
But perhaps it would be more correct to treat not the effect, but the cause? We recommend reading the story of Olga Larina, how she cured her throat. Read the article >>
First of all, you need to know that the oral and nasal cavities communicate with each other, so we can feel unpleasant odors in the air exhaled from the nose, the cause of which lies in diseases of the oral cavity.
Smokers especially understand this. They inhale cigarette smoke through their mouths and expel it through their nostrils, smelling the smell of tobacco. Therefore, the stench we feel may be due to oral problems. However, there are other factors.
Rhinitis
Atrophic rhinitis is a chronic disease of the respiratory tract. The causes of the process may be allergies or long-term infectious pathology. As a result of constant inflammation of the mucous membrane, it gradually collapses and becomes thinner. Less protective mucus forms on the surface.
As a result, bleeding occurs in response to the most minor stimuli. In this disease, the smell of blood is associated with direct bleeding. It may be very small and not open outward, but the patient feels an unpleasant metallic odor.
Atrophic rhinitis can be controlled. The problem is treated by an otolaryngologist.
Nasopharyngitis
Chronic inflammatory disease of the upper pharynx can cause an unpleasant odor. The appearance of the disease is facilitated by:
- Frequent hypothermia.
- Harmful factors of production.
- Incorrect use of antibiotics.
- Congenital immunodeficiency and HIV infection.
- Chemotherapy.
- Treatment with hormonal drugs.
- Autoimmune diseases.
After hypothermia, stress, or physical activity, another exacerbation of the infection occurs. The nasopharynx becomes inflamed and becomes susceptible to damage. Minor bleeding causes an unpleasant odor.
The disease is treated with an adequate course of antibiotic therapy.
Nasal polyps
Outgrowths of hypertrophied mucous membrane can also lead to distortion of aromas. Often with this diagnosis there is a smell of blood in the nose. The causes of the pathological process can be different. Statistics indicate that up to 5% of the world's population faces the problem. Polyps are observed much more often in men than in women. Often the disease develops due to the anatomical features of the nasal cavity. In this regard, the disease may be hereditary. Chronic inflammatory diseases also lead to the appearance of growths in the nose. These include sinusitis, allergic diseases of the respiratory tract, and asthmatic bronchitis.
In most cases, polyps begin to grow in the ethmoid sinus. “I smell blood in my nose,” this is the first time patients seek help with this complaint. Pathology cannot be ignored. Polyps increase in size over time, occupying the entire nasal cavity. Nasal breathing worsens significantly. Patients become irritable and get tired quickly. The appearance of polyps in childhood can lead to disruption of the structure of the skull.
At the initial stage of the disease, success can be achieved with the help of conservative therapy. Treatment is aimed at eliminating factors that can provoke the growth of polyps. If nasal breathing is impaired, it is no longer possible to do without surgical intervention. The growths are removed under local anesthesia. If the operation goes without complications, the patient can go home within a few hours.
Blood diseases
The smell of blood may occur in the nose with frequent capillary bleeding. Bleeding from the nose occurs spontaneously when a person has excessive bleeding. This condition is congenital or acquired and may be associated with:
- Lack of coagulation factors in the blood.
- Low platelet count.
- Taking anticoagulants for strokes and heart attacks.
- Taking aspirin and clopidogrel for angina pectoris.
- Congenital platelet pathologies.
- Damage to hematopoietic germs by certain toxic substances.
- Liver diseases.
Another cause of frequent bleeding can be high blood pressure. Hypertensive patients often note bleeding in the nasal mucosa. Regular crises of high blood pressure indicate the symptomatic nature of hypertension. In this case, you need to look for pathology of the kidneys, blood vessels or endocrine system.
Diagnostics
In each specific case, the cause of the smell in the nose must be looked for differently. The patient should see an otolaryngologist as soon as possible.
Help make a diagnosis:
- Rhinoscopy, pharyngoscopy.
- General blood analysis.
- Coagulogram.
- Biochemical blood tests.
- Nasopharyngeal swab culture.
- Cytological examination to detect a tumor.
- Biopsy of the pathological area with histological analysis.
If there are signs of damage to the nervous tissue, you should consult a neurologist. The specialist will distinguish between the pathologies of the central and peripheral parts. Using MRI, functional tests, and specific tests, the cause of the symptom will be determined.
Other causes of the phenomenon
Why else can a person be haunted by the smell of blood? There is such a disease as dysosmia - a perverted sense of aromas. This kind of functional disorder may result from:
- hormonal imbalance (for example, during pregnancy or menopause);
- natural age-related changes that leave an imprint on the structure of nerve endings;
- bad habits (smoking, alcohol abuse);
- prescription damage caused by taking certain medications, infectious processes, allergic reactions;
- disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system in epilepsy, trauma, diabetes, Parkinson's disease.
Treatment for dysosmia depends on the cause of the problem.
In rare cases, nasopharyngitis, a chronic inflammatory process of the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx, leads to the patient complaining of “I smell blood in the nose.” This disease develops against the background of an immune failure, and worsens after hypothermia, prolonged use of antibiotics, or consumption of chilled drinks.
Despite the fact that in most cases the smell of blood is nothing more than a consequence of a broken capillary in the nose, in some cases this symptom may indicate serious health problems - immune failure, disruption of the nervous system, the appearance of malignant tumors in the nasopharynx. If such a phenomenon constantly haunts a person, it is necessary to immediately seek help from a specialist and carefully examine the entire body.
Treatment
Therapy will also depend on the cause of the smell of blood. Possible treatment options:
- Antibiotic therapy for infectious pathology.
- Antiallergic and symptomatic drugs for atrophic rhinitis.
- Platelet transfusion, splenectomy in case of platelet pathology.
- Surgical tumor removal, minimally invasive technologies, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
- Nootropics, vascular drugs, anticonvulsants, stereotactic surgery for neurological pathology.
In each specific case, the doctor will select his own treatment method. Therefore, it is extremely important to rely on the help of a specialist.
Bad smell from the nose is a very common problem. Unfortunately, not all people pay enough attention to it, but bad smell from the nose can be a sign of the development of serious diseases.
First of all, you need to know that the oral and nasal cavities communicate with each other, so we can feel unpleasant odors in the air exhaled from the nose , the cause of which lies in diseases of the oral cavity.
Smokers especially understand this. They inhale cigarette smoke through their mouths and expel it through their nostrils, smelling the smell of tobacco. Therefore, the stench we feel may be due to oral problems. However, there are other factors.
Causes
The causes of this pathology can be varied. For example, the smell of garlic may appear due to the entry of its particles into the nasal cavity.
Pieces of food can get stuck in the nose when vomiting. They interfere with the normal passage of air through the nasal passages. Over time, food begins to decompose, resulting in a foul smell when inhaled.
In adults
Most often, the complaint that I smell an unpleasant odor from an adult patient can be heard in connection with the development of certain diseases. These include:
Rhinitis is a condition characterized by excessive mucus production from the nasal passages into the nasopharynx. In the resulting mucus, bacteria grow and multiply, spreading a stench.
Rhinoscleroma is a chronic granulomatous bacterial disease of the nasal cavity caused by the bacteria Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis . Rhinoscleroma develops in three stages.
The first stage begins with the appearance of nonspecific rhinitis. As the disease progresses, purulent rhinitis develops. It is at this stage that the patient may report that he feels a strange and unpleasant odor when sneezing.
At the third stage, polyps and nodules form on the mucous membrane. If rhinoscleroma is not treated, it can lead to
the appearance of nosebleeds
, constant congestion and destruction of nasal cartilage.
Tonsilloliths are stones that form inside the tonsils. The stones are white or yellowish in color and consist primarily of calcium.
The exact reasons for the formation of tonsilloliths are unknown. Over time, food debris accumulates in them, which is an excellent breeding ground for bacteria. It is because of this that patients develop an unpleasant odor from the nasopharynx.
Sinusitis is a disease characterized by inflammation of the maxillary sinuses and accumulation of mucus in them. Mucus blocks the access of air to the sinuses, mucus begins to stagnate and pathogenic bacteria begin to multiply in them.
One of the waste products of bacteria is sulfur. They are what causes the stench in the nose
for sinusitis
. The disease is accompanied by a throbbing headache in the maxillary sinuses.
Ozena is a pathological condition also known as atrophic rhinitis. Ozena is caused by chronic infection of the nasal mucosa, which leads to its atrophy.
Primary ozaena is caused by the bacteria Basillus Mucosus or Klebsiella ozaenae. Causes of secondary disease may include nasal trauma, radiation therapy, or nasal surgery.
Patients suffering from ozena may smell onions, or complain that they cannot smell anything at all. The stench emanating from patients with ozena can be so strong that others avoid communicating with them.
Causes of bad smell in the nose
The causes of this pathology can be varied. For example, the smell of garlic may appear due to the entry of its particles into the nasal cavity.
Pieces of food can get stuck in the nose when vomiting. They interfere with the normal passage of air through the nasal passages. Over time, food begins to decompose, resulting in a foul smell when inhaled.
In adults
Rhinitis is a condition characterized by excessive mucus production from the nasal passages into the nasopharynx. In the resulting mucus, bacteria grow and multiply, spreading a stench.
Rhinoscleroma is a chronic granulomatous bacterial disease of the nasal cavity caused by the bacteria Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis. Rhinoscleroma develops in three stages.
The first stage begins with the appearance of nonspecific rhinitis. As the disease progresses, purulent rhinitis develops. It is at this stage that the patient may report that he feels a strange and unpleasant odor when sneezing.
Tonsilloliths are stones that form inside the tonsils. The stones are white or yellowish in color and consist primarily of calcium.
The exact reasons for the formation of tonsilloliths are unknown. Over time, food debris accumulates in them, which is an excellent breeding ground for bacteria. It is because of this that patients develop an unpleasant odor from the nasopharynx.
Sinusitis is a disease characterized by inflammation of the maxillary sinuses and accumulation of mucus in them. Mucus blocks the access of air to the sinuses, mucus begins to stagnate and pathogenic bacteria begin to multiply in them.
Ozena is a pathological condition also known as atrophic rhinitis. Ozena is caused by chronic infection of the nasal mucosa, which leads to its atrophy.
Primary ozaena is caused by the bacteria Basillus Mucosus or Klebsiella ozaenae. Causes of secondary disease may include nasal trauma, radiation therapy, or nasal surgery.
Patients suffering from ozena may smell onions, or complain that they cannot smell anything at all. The stench emanating from patients with ozena can be so strong that others avoid communicating with them.
The causes of nasal stench in children can be the same as in adults. Most often they are caused by factors such as polyps, adenoiditis and tooth decay.
Polyps are noncancerous, soft, and painless growths that grow in the nasal cavity. Polyps form as a result of chronic inflammation of the mucous membrane due to recurrent infections, allergies, and certain types of immune disorders.
The course of the disease depends on the size of the polyps. Small polyps, as a rule, do not manifest themselves in any way, while large neoplasms can block the nasal passages and lead to difficulty breathing.
Bad odor in the nose with polyps is caused by the development of pathogenic microflora in accumulated mucus.
Obsessive unpleasant odors in the nose are a common problem that worries a large number of people. The constant smell of blood can especially alarm a person.
READ MORE: Low temperature and headache
In fact, if he does not experience bleeding from the mouth or nose, the causes of this phenomenon are no different from other causes of impaired nasal perception.
An unpleasant odor occurs in the nose infrequently. According to patient complaints, this phenomenon usually accompanies the underlying disease in the anamnesis. There are many reasons for the occurrence of the symptom, so a comprehensive examination cannot be avoided. At the reception, people complain about a specific unpleasant aroma.
sulfur; burning; rot; acetone; gland; ammonia; dust.
The burning smell in most cases is a side effect or reaction of the body to long-term use of medications. Classes of medications vary, so the symptom occurs in people with different medical conditions.
A putrid aroma manifests itself in the nasal cavity under the influence of the corresponding microflora. It is a symptom of suppuration of the paranasal sinuses, which can lead to sinusitis or sinusitis. The cause of the ammonia odor is a pathology that occurs in the liver or kidneys. In order for the smell to disappear, you will need to undergo therapy that will eliminate the problem in these organs.
A metallic smell can occur in the event of bleeding in the nasal cavity, injuries that cause damage to blood vessels or tissues.
It may also indicate poisoning or a side effect of certain medications. Particles from the environment enter the nasal cavity when inhaled, resulting in an iron smell.
The sensation of acetone in the nasal cavity occurs due to complications caused by diabetes mellitus. In this case, complex and lengthy therapy will be required. The smell of sulfur occurs when there are problems with the liver, allergic reactions of the body, or disorders of the nervous system.
Odors arising in the nasal cavity can be felt not only by people who encounter them, but also by those around them.
That is why it is necessary to undergo a special examination by a specialist.
All scents cause discomfort to a person, so getting rid of them is a top priority.
Extraneous odors that cause obvious discomfort in 99% of cases occur when there is a certain progressive disease in the body - a certain cause that requires immediate elimination.
In 5-6% of cases, the presence of aroma in the nasal cavity becomes idiopathic, that is, permanent, the cause of which could not be determined after examination.
ozena or offensive rhinitis; acute form of sinusitis; inflammatory processes in the sinuses; sinusitis; metabolic disorders; problems with the gastrointestinal tract; kidney pathology; liver disorders; allergic reactions occurring in acute form; bacterial form of infection; thyroid diseases; diabetes.
A feeling of unpleasant odor in the nose also occurs with parosmia. In this case, disturbances in the function of smell are observed.
No additional stimulation is required to perceive the aroma.
To get rid of this disorder, additional therapy prescribed by a neurologist will be required.
The appearance of an unpleasant odor can also be caused by the presence of a foreign object/body of any diameter in the nasal cavity. As a result, the accumulation of fluid, under the influence of bacteria in which a purulent substance is formed. Pathological disorders are often caused by hormonal imbalance or the presence of olfactory hallucinations.
nasopharyngeal diseases; diseases in which the smell of rotten meat from the nose is the main sign of recognition of the disease; foreign body in the nasal passage - often found in children; diseases of organs and systems - possibly with diabetes mellitus, endocrine disorders, renal failure;
You will definitely feel discomfort in the intranasal cavity - pay attention to this
Underdevelopment of the paranasal and frontal sinuses. Excessively wide nasal passages. Heredity - atrophic rhinitis in one of the parents can cause the development of the disease in the child. Degeneration of the nasal mucosa.
strong physical activity, especially with poor nutrition. In this case, the release of ammonia occurs due to the breakdown of fatty deposits; unfavorable environmental conditions, including poor living conditions, non-compliance with sanitary rules.
An unpleasant smell from the nose in a child, as a rule, occurs at the age of 7-8 years, more often in girls. There is constant nasal congestion and purulent discharge. Children complain of headaches, fatigue, decreased tone, and drowsiness. The symptoms are similar to a common runny nose, so parents begin to intensively treat it, which leads to complications of the disease.
Important! At an advanced stage of the disease, inflammation can spread to the larynx.
In adolescence, there is usually no purulent discharge, but dry formations appear in the form of crusts that cover the mucous membrane and cause an odor from the child’s nose. The causes of pus in the nasopharynx are caused by various factors, so you should definitely visit a doctor to establish the correct diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment.
READ MORE: Paracetamol or aspirin for headaches