Smoke coming out of my nose! What is causing this?

Hello, Dawn.

The symptoms you described, such as smelling something burning and having discharge from your nose, could be due to various reasons, including:

1. Olfactory Hallucinations: Olfactory hallucinations, also known as phantosmia, can cause a person to perceive smells that aren't present. This could be related to various factors, such as sinus issues, infections, or neurological conditions.

2. Sinus Infection or Sinusitis: An infection or inflammation of the sinuses can lead to various symptoms, including changes in smell, nasal discharge, and congestion.

3. Nasal Polyps: These are non-cancerous growths that can develop in the nasal passages and sinuses, causing symptoms like altered smell, nasal discharge, and nasal congestion.

4. Allergies: Allergies can cause nasal symptoms, including excessive mucus production and nasal congestion.

5. Environmental Irritants: Exposure to certain irritants or chemicals can lead to nasal symptoms and changes in smell perception.

6. Other Medical Conditions: In some cases, neurological conditions or certain medications may also cause changes in smell perception.

Since you're feeling worried and scared, it's essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you don't have family members to go with you, consider asking a friend, neighbor, or even a community organization for assistance. If you don't drive, you can explore public transportation options or use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to get to a healthcare facility.

Reach out to a local clinic, doctor's office, or hospital in your area to schedule an appointment. Explain your symptoms to them, and they can guide you on the next steps, which may include a physical examination, possibly further tests like imaging or blood tests, and a proper diagnosis. 

While waiting for your medical appointment, there are a few things you can do to help manage your symptoms and potentially alleviate any discomfort:

1. Rest and Hydration: Get plenty of rest to support your body's natural healing process. Drink enough water to stay hydrated, as it can help thin mucus and ease congestion.

2. Avoid Irritants: Try to identify and avoid any potential environmental irritants that might be triggering your symptoms. This could include strong odors, smoke, dust, or other allergens.

3. Nasal Irrigation: Nasal irrigation using a saline solution can help flush out mucus and debris from your nasal passages, providing some relief from congestion and discomfort.

4. Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam can help moisturize your nasal passages and reduce congestion. You can do this by leaning over a bowl of hot water (not boiling) with a towel draped over your head to trap the steam. Be cautious not to get too close to avoid burning yourself.

5. Over-the-Counter Remedies: Over-the-counter medications like nasal decongestant sprays or antihistamines may provide temporary relief from congestion and allergy-related symptoms. However, use these medications as directed and avoid prolonged or excessive use, as they can have side effects.

6. Elevate Your Head: Elevating your head while sleeping can help reduce nasal congestion and postnasal drip.