Coping With Osmophobia or the Fear of Smells

Coping With Osmophobia or the Fear of Smells Phobias Types Print Managing Osmophobia or the Fear of Smells By Lisa Fritscher Lisa Fritscher is a freelance writer and editor with a deep interest in phobias and other mental health topics. Learn about our editorial policy Lisa Fritscher Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Claudia Chaves, MD on July 29, 2016 Claudia Chaves, MD, is board-certified in cerebrovascular disease and neurology with a subspecialty certification in vascular neurology. Learn about our Medical Review Board Claudia Chaves, MD Updated on November 23, 2019 Peopleimages/Getty Images More in Phobias Types Causes Symptoms and Diagnosis Treatment Osmophobia, defined in medical dictionaries as a morbid fear of smells, is relatively rare as a stand-alone phobia. However, it is fairly common among those who suffer from migraine headaches. Some migraine sufferers report that their headaches are triggered by strong scents. Understandably, this connection could lead to a fear of smells. Regardless of whether or not headaches are present, however, osmophobia can feel overwhelming. However, osmophobia is more than just a fear. It is a true phobia whereby fear becomes extreme, and in some cases, irrational. Phobias can have debilitating effects on sufferers that interfere with their ability to complete daily activities. Osmophobia and Migraines A 2015 Brazilian study found that of 235 patients with headaches, 147 patients were  diagnosed with migraines and 53 percent of the migraine sufferers had osmophobia. The study also found that among the headache patients, those with migraines and a significant number of years of headache history presented more signs of osmophobia. In some cases, a certain smell can trigger a migraine in the population prone to these severe headaches. Triggers The sense of smell is highly personalized, and what smells wonderful to one person might smell terrible to the next. In addition, odors are heavily linked to memories of past experiences. Smelling Grandmas favorite perfume or the flowers that were in bloom the day you proposed to your wife can trigger a sudden flood of positive memories. Likewise, those suffering from osmophobia may be triggered by a wide range of possible scents. Symptoms Extreme anxietyDry mouthRapid breathingIrregular heartbeatNauseaExcessive sweatingInability to articulate words or sentencesShaking or tremblingShortness of breath Osmophobia and Other Disorders Besides migraines, osmophobia is sometimes related to other disorders. For example, those with chemophobia, or the fear of chemicals, may have a strong aversion to any chemical odor. People with a fear of animals might react strongly to any animal scents. Those who are afraid of water may be sensitive to the smell of the ocean. Management Like any phobia, osmophobia that is unrelated to a medical condition generally responds well to a variety of therapeutic techniques. Systematic desensitization, in which you are gradually exposed to the feared scent, is particularly helpful. If your osmophobia is related to migraines, however, let your therapist know. Your doctor will need to be involved in your treatment to ensure that you do not worsen your headaches. Other Treatments   Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps patients recognize their triggers  and helps develop coping techniquesMedications used to treat anxietyMeditation and relaxation techniquesExposure therapyPsychotherapy