Question: Over the past several months I’ve noticed certain smells — almost like smoke — that no one else seems to notice. Also: Food sometimes tastes funny to me. Any idea why this would be happening to me? I’m 55.

Dr. Hibberd's answer:

Smelling disorders do often cause a change in taste sensation. Your sensory area for smell is located in the olfactory glands in the upper nose called the cribriform plate. This area is subject to damage by trauma, tumor, and vascular disorders despite its protected location.

Have your doctor evaluate your smell specifically or refer you to an ENT who will likely directly visualize your nasal and upper mouth area and then decide whether an MRI is warranted.

Be sure you are not on medications that cause changes in smell or taste, and alert your doctors to all medications, supplements, and substances you use so your evaluation will proceed in a more sensible fashion.

If you smoke, stop now.