Bad Nasal smell

[robertus]

I had bilateral turbinectomy in early novemeber. The surgery was a success and my breathing was improved significantly. I experienced crusting but that healed. However, I am now experiencing foul smell coming from my right nasal passage. It is odd because I do not smell anything foul from my left nostril. It is only my right. I also have symptoms of a cold - sore throat. Went back to my surgeon and she gave me a prescription for Amoxil for seven days. She also told me to use salt water solution which I did and to consume lots of water throught out the day.. My sore throat problem went away and the smell was not as bad anymore. However, when I came off the Amoxil, the problem returned. I went back to my Surgeon and she told me that I should stick with the salt water solution. she was not prepared to prescribe a steriod spray and the problem would eventually fix itself and to see her in the new year. I never had bad nasal smell before, and I am sure it is because of the surgery. My biggest issue is when I work out - the smell effect my breath significantly and I can breath it. Could it be the formation of polyps?

[National Jewish]

Without examining your nose, it is difficult to tell the cause of the problems you have described.  The most common cause of the foul odor you are experiencing is an infection.  This could also be the reason it got somewhat better after the antibiotic.  Working with your doctor is the best suggestion for now because someone is going to have to look into your nose and possibly do a sinus x-ray if these symptoms persist.