Fishy odor syndrome is a rare metabolic disorder caused by a lack of enzymes to digest trimethylamine, leading to a strong odor in sweat, urine, and other body fluids. It is not curable, but a low-protein diet, activated charcoal, and medication can help manage the odor. The condition is recessive and more noticeable in women, […]
New car smell comes from a combination of chemicals released by plastics, adhesives, and other materials in any new vehicle. These chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can cause health problems. The United States does not regulate VOCs in cars, which can be up to 128 times higher than Australian standards. Keeping vehicles cool and […]
Smell disorders can be divided into two groups: dysosmia, where the sense of smell is distorted, and hyposmia/anosmia, where the sense of smell is decreased or lost. Dysosmia can be caused by several factors, including head injuries and diseases like Parkinson’s. Smell disorders can result from problems at different points in the pathway along which […]
Freshly cut grass smells good to us because it releases chemicals, such as jasmonic acid, as a defense mechanism when it is harmed. This scent attracts parasitic wasps and repels caterpillars. Many people associate the smell of freshly cut grass with carefree summer days. But why does freshly cut grass smell good to us, and […]
The sense of smell uses the nose to identify unique chemical signatures of odors, with olfactory receptor neurons located in the olfactory epithelium. Smell is the oldest sense, mainly related to food and sexual bonding, and is associated with memory formation. The olfactory nerve projects axons into the olfactory bulb, which ultimately converges on only […]
Loss of taste and smell often go hand in hand, caused by illnesses such as colds, allergies, and changes in taste bud receptors. Smoking, exposure to chemicals, and certain medications can also hinder the sense of smell. Taste buds can be affected by smoking, mouth infections, cancer, vitamin deficiency, and age. Brain damage and neurological […]
Fetor hepaticus is a breath odor associated with hepatic encephalopathy, a condition caused by toxins building up in the bloodstream due to liver failure. Symptoms include abdominal discomfort, cognitive impairment, and confusion. Treatment ranges from dietary changes to medication, and prompt treatment is necessary to increase survival chances. If left untreated, it can lead to […]
