
olfactory hallucination
An olfactory hallucination occurs when a person perceives a smell that isn’t actually present. This can happen due to various reasons such as neurological issues, infections, or certain medications, where the brain’s sensory processing interprets signals as smells without an external source. It’s similar to seeing a phantom image or hearing a phantom sound but in the sense of smell. These hallucinations can be temporary or persistent and may be associated with underlying health conditions like migraines, epilepsy, or sinus problems. If experienced, a healthcare provider can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.