extreme hyperosmia---smelling all foods, chemicals to a point of near breathlessness

[lewisallen]

I used to be a smoker, 50 years.   Quit it Jan. 2013, but now I smell everything and lose my breath.  Also have
Copd (emphysema) and severe asthma.  I read that a strong chemical burn or something else (can't recall what) can
cause hyperosmia.  What is the second reason I can't remember?
Also, I take xanax for panic disorder and it helps a little.
What else can I do for this?  also, where I work has mold and mildew in the air, but I have to work.
Please start with my earlier questions., please.
Lewis

[lewisallen]

Great answer and thank you ever so much.  I gotta look up URT (I'm overwhelmed with acronyms and know tons, but not this one).  I do meet
with a client tomorrow, who is a pulmonologist, for his haircut.
thank you gain,
Lewis

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hey Lewis!

Well, without an evaluation it would be difficult to determine the cause of your symptoms. Possibilities include hypersensitivity which may occur in association with asthma, URT infections, inflammations, COPD/ emphysema, stress/ anxiety etc. Aside anti-anxiety medications/ xanax, I would recommend using a face mask to cover the face (nose and mouth) while working. Use of anti-histaminics may be helpful in providing temporary symptomatic relief. Breathing exercises and physiotherapy would also help in symptomatic recovery. If these measures do not s help, I would recommend seeing an internist or a pulmonologist for a detailed evaluation and suggestion of an appropriate management plan.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!