Acrid Odor

Hi,  Off and on for several years I have had an acrid odor that I feel is emminating from the cells in my nasal area inside my nose.  It is not the sweet odor I hear others talk about but more of an unpleasant acidy type odor.  Actually, it is not like anything I have ever smelled elsewhere.  I asked my husband if he can smell it but he says no.  On the other hand, his sense of smell is not too great.  I can't seem to smell it on my hands or anywhere else as it all seems concentrated in the cells of my nose.  I am a Type 2 Diabetic and am worried I may be having some kind of ketone problem but I haven't ever heard anyone describe it this way.  It is an unpleasant odor and it distresses me as I don't like the smell plus I worry that others might smell it.  I would like to mention too, that I occasionally have "auras" that last around 30 minutes but I don't get a headache after these auras.   These auras are like heat coming off hot pavement and some zaggidy lightning-like light in my eyes.  It always happens in both eyes at the same time. Thanks, Kim.

[Anita Ramsetty, MD]

HI,
I think you should be seen by a neurologist as soon as possible. There are certain neurological problems(aside from migraine headaches) that can cause the symptoms you described so they are the best people to assist you. If your urine is negative for ketones then it is not likely secondary to that issue.
Take care.

[Anita Ramsetty, MD]

Hi,
Also, be sure to have a visit to your ophthalmologist if you have not yet seen one since these symptoms started. The ' auras' at least may be due to a retinal issue.