Sinus Infection Smells Like Feces

… Continued …

Swelling of the nose’s membranes

Your nose and brain play a key role to your ability to smell. The sense of smell is a complex process. But in essence, it involves the detection and response of chemicals floating in the air.

The molecules in the air enter the body through the nose. Then they dissolve in the mucus within special membrane called ‘olfactory epithelium’, located about 2.76 inches up and into your nose from the nostrils (the outermost opening-channels of your nose).

The olfactory epithelium has hair cells containing cilia (small hairs) that are specially designed to be able to respond chemical molecules in the air. In sinusitis, swollen nasal membranes can inhibit or prevent these molecules from reaching the olfactory epithelium. As a result, you will have loss of smell.

The overgrowth of bacteria and excess debris

The blockage of small channels that drain the mucus to the nose will create a friendlier environment for bacteria to grow out of control. This overgrowth of bacteria can emit foul-smelling odors, causing bad breath. Even some people may smell it like feces.

The bad news, sinus infection may also lead to excess debris in the mucus. This can worsen your bad breath.

The treatment options

Again, the treatment is usually not necessary. In most cases, sinus infection will get better on its own without medication. Lifestyle measures such as rest and getting adequate liquid are often helpful enough to cope with the problem.

If you need to do more to control the symptoms, over-the-counter medications are available. These include pain relievers, decongestants, or mucus-thinning agents.

Once the infection relieves and the blockage improves, your smell will back to normal. But if the problem gets worse or lasts longer than what you expect, see a doctor for more guidance!