What I can do if I'm hypersensitive to smell?

You may want to inquire of your physician if it would be suitable to wear the type of mask that helps to filter out aromas and scents. Hospital staff use them all the time to prevent the spread of infection - it might just help with the extreme sensitivity to scents.

I am sorry you are dealing with smell sensitivity. even unscented products can still have a smell. They may not be artificially scented, but the very products they are made of may have a scent you are picking up on. And as you probably already know, strong scents can exacerbate COPD symptoms. You may want to look into very specific products designed for people with chemical/smell sensitivities that may or may not be available at your local stores. I hope this helps, and know you are not alone! Sensitivity to smells comes up a fair amount in this community. And also, we are a very friendly community that does not allow disrespect in any way, shape, or form. You are safe to ask questions here anytime. Thank you for reaching out!

I am also afflicted with this sensitivity; oddly, I was in specialty construction and regularly around smells that were harsh. Now I think I had to mentally accept the change and convince myself I can control it. I purchase products that are fragrance-free; unscented means there is a masked scent. I find that chewing peppermint gum helps me control the reaction when exposed to perfumes and colognes on an elevator or similar environment. For me peppermint anything (body wash etc.) I tolerate well. Cleaning products have to be fragrance free for me. A mask is another good idea; I have a Respro (respro.com) pollution mask; note while pricey, you can order larger exhale vents and I can wear it over my cannula without a problem. Lastly, the greater the distance i put between me and my last cigarette (6+ years) the more in control I become with this. I will also admit it didn't help when minimizing anxiety for me- the Dr. addressed that with Xanax (some say makes you sleepy) in social situations like offices, public places, restaurants, gatherings etc. and I also steered away from caffeine for years due to the association with smoking. I now find it helps with smells and breathing as the warm coffee works as a bronchodialator as opposed to the tightening from terrible trigger smells...Good luck!

I'm also sensitive to smells. I use to love a good smelling cologne. I would love it when my husband put on cologne that smelled really good. Drakar ( not sure on the spelling ) but I'm sure a lot of people know the fragrance tgat I'm talking about. But now , I can't. Any fragrance chokes me up. I'm going to try the peppermint though. It won't hurt even if it doesn't help.