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Phantom Smells: Post-COVID Olfactory Illusions Explained
16 Sep
Summary
- Smell retraining therapy involves teaching the brain core scent types.
- Some individuals experience phantom smells randomly after COVID-19.
- Phantom smells can trigger intense, associated memories from the past.
Experiencing phantom smells, or olfactory illusions, is a phenomenon reported by individuals recovering from a loss of smell, often linked to COVID-19's omicron variant. Philip Martin from Tintwistle, Derbyshire, UK, described how this therapy, developed by Thomas Hummel at the University of Dresden, Germany, helped him regain some scent perception.
This therapy typically involves inhaling essential oils representing core scent types like menthol, citrus, and rose. While effective for many, Martin noted random episodes of strong, phantom smells with no environmental cause. Intriguingly, these phantom scents were accompanied by vivid memories of places associated with them.
This suggests a potential mixing of sensations as the brain relearns smells. Joe Oldaker from Nuneaton, Warwickshire, UK, shared an anecdote about someone who smelled daffodils constantly without any present. This led to the discovery of a brain tumor, highlighting that persistent olfactory disturbances can sometimes indicate serious underlying medical issues.
