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when I have a cold or other nasal irritation (allergies) I notice that common items such as salad dressing smell strongly of formaldehyde. Is this a known symptom of any particular condition?

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Male, Age: 48, Canada

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $9

Do you take any medications for your allergies and have you started any new medications lately? Have you had any or are you in need of any dental work that needs to be done? Lastly how long has this seemed to be going on and is it only when you have nasal sensitivity? This will allow me to be of better help to you, thank you.

*Cheryl K* Please click the "ACCEPT" button
if my information was helpful so I get credit for my work. Bonuses and/or feedback are greatly appreciated! Click reply for more info

I take Allegra when I have periodic attacks, but I have noticed this much more often related to colds or even as a an early warning symptom of a pending cold. I have noticed this over many years during which I have taken antidepressants (but they have changed too over time). I take acid blockers too, but can't say I have noticed a connection there.
I do have chronic gum disease which I hadn't thought of as being associated. I do only smell formaldehyde during periods of irritation and the strength of the smell is directly relative to the amount of irritation. When I am sick I can not be near mayonnaise.
My concern is that formaldehyde is such a nasty chemical - am I actually producing/smelling it or is this some sort of sensory illusion? Is it dangerous?

This can be a sensory issue and not anything that is dangerous but if this has been occuring you do need to get in for a dental check as alot of issues with metallic tastes in the mouth and smells such as you are smelling can be caused by gum or dental issues and if you do have gingivitis or chronic gum disease the infection that could be in your gums can spread into other parts of your body and because the ear, nose, and throat are more directly connected this is what can make this more sensitive to your nose. The reason you may notice it more when you have a cold or allergy attacks is most likely because your nose is already a focal point so it is more sensitive during those times. The smell you are smelling is not dangerous but any infection that could be causing the issue can so it is important to make sure and be treated. Of course certain medications can also intestify this as well so that may be why it is more noticable to you during these times as well when you do have periods of irritation as that along with the gum issues combined make this more noticable and why you seem to notice it them.

*Cheryl K* Please click the "ACCEPT" button
if my information was helpful so I get credit for my work. Bonuses and/or feedback are greatly appreciated! Click reply for more info

Thank you.

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