Work

Case Report: When reflux smells like smoke: a case of phantosmia associated with gastroesophageal reflux

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Phantosmia is the perception of an odor without an external stimulus. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been associated with olfactory dysfunction, but phantosmia has rarely been described. Case presentation: A 40-year-old woman with longstanding GERD developed intermittent perceptions of cigarette smoke during a week of worsening heartburn and bloating. Episodes were accompanied by déjà vu, nausea, and chills. A double-contrast barium esophagram demonstrated a small hiatal hernia and reflux to the thoracic inlet. She reported approximately 80% improvement after starting omeprazole, with brief recurrence during a heartburn flare, and complete resolution at later follow-up. Migraine with aura, allergic rhinitis, focal seizures, and psychiatric causes were considered as alternative explanations. Conclusion: The close relationship between reflux activity and olfactory symptoms, together with improvement during reflux-directed treatment, supports a plausible association between GERD and phantosmia. This single case does not establish causation, and neurologic and sinonasal etiologies should remain part of the evaluation.

Source: Frontiers in Gastroenterology

DOI: 10.3389/fgstr.2026.1867837

Authors: Christopher Visak, Skylar Ketteler, Shireen Husami, Imran Shafqat

Institution: Western Michigan University

Language: English

Topic: Olfactory and Sensory Function Studies

Subfield: Sensory Systems

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,353