Are olfactory seizures related to shingles?

[msfoto]

Hello - I experienced extremely painful shingles 2 yrs ago.  The onset began at the top of my spine (left side) and spread to the left armpit and L. chest. Since that time I have had 3 episodes of olfactory 'seizures' or 'hallucinations' - i.e. the awareness of a constant odor of burning paper that no one else notices.  These episodes last  a week or two.  And am experiencing one at the moment - which has lasted almost 2 weeks.  I do not know if this is related or not, but for several yrs my left ear bothered me re. certain sounds e.g. the ticking of a clock sounded muffled, as if there was water in the ear. It seemed a trivial thing, & I never mentioned it to the doctor.  I am 62, female, & while I rarely go to the doctor, I will be seeing my GP on Tue. - though have concerns that he will simply say it is all psychological.  To me it is a physical phenomenon. I liken it to the short-circuiting of the neurons, & the synapse is going up in smoke & that is what I smell.  Could shingles (herpes zoster) have produced this effect?  My memory isn't all that great - but I believe this olfactory sensation occurred just prior to the shingles outbreak as well.  Would an EEG be recommended?  Or is it a simply psychological result of stress?

[msfoto]

Thank you for replying!  I was wondering about the shingles/olfactory connection -as I found a medical site on the net referring to herpes zoster (the chicken pox virus) & olfactory seizures.  I was unable to 'open' the PDF file though to see what it was about.

[PaulMD]

Hi there!

First of all any symptom should be evaluated and I suggest that you get a full explanation from your doctor during your meeting.  As for the relationship between shingles and your olfactory experience, I don't think there is a direct connection.  A complete neurologic examination is warranted to find out if there are other neurologic findings along with what you are experiencing.  Your doctor will decide based on these findings whether he would require additional tests or further referrals to other specialists.

I am experiencing the same ear sensations (like something is tapping on my eardrum, muffled also) and I find these closely related to my stress levels (like if I did not get enough sleep).  I suggest you find activities that can relieve you of your stress at least 1-2x a week.

I hope your meeting with your doctor goes well and fruitful.  Regards...