ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Phantosmia

Phantosmia is when you smell something that isn't really there. You might think you smell flowers or cookies or something else, but there's actually nothing there to make that smell.

Sometimes, phantosmia can happen because of a problem with your nose. There are these tiny things called nerve cells in your nose that help you smell things, and if they get damaged or don't work right, it can make you think you're smelling things that aren't there.

Other times, phantosmia can happen because of something going on in your brain. Your brain is what helps you process smells and figure out what you're smelling, and if there's something weird happening in your brain, it might make you think you're smelling things that aren't really there.

It's not usually a big deal, but if you're smelling things that aren't there a lot, or if it's bothering you, you might want to talk to your doctor. They can help you figure out why it's happening and if there's anything you can do to make it go away.