Smelling burnt toast stroke But is it true? As it turns out, the notion of smelling toast as an indicator of a stroke is nothing more than a Mar 16, 2021 · There is a myth that the smell of burnt toast means you're having a stroke. However, typically strokes cause a decrease or complete loss of smell. Call us on 0303 3033 100, from a textphone 18001 0303 3033 100 or email helpline@stroke. Unfortunately for my old morning routine, it appears that there is very little evidence suggesting that smelling burnt toast or other forms of phantosmia (the medical term for unexplained scents) are a symptom of stroke 2. your dad burnt toast when you were 5 and he burnt it a bit. The idea of smelling phantom burning toast may be kind of amusing — but strokes are serious. Typically, the cause is something other than a stroke. While changes in smell can be linked to neurological issues, the smell of burnt toast alone isn’t a definitive sign of a stroke. An expert has revealed if sufferers really do Davis: I feel strange. 4 days ago · Do you smell burning before a stroke? If you're smelling burnt toast, the first thing you should probably do is check your toaster. OP os saying prehistoric humans, whilst having a stroke, could have smelled that "burnt toast" smell, but before a time in which toast existed. T. If you smell burnt toast, even if the smell is only temporary or comes and goes, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment . Support . Jul 26, 2022 · The phantom smell you perceive can vary in scent, and it may be pleasant or foul. An incident from last year comes to my mind when my friend’s aunt suddenly had a stroke in the middle of a birthday party. In other words, a phantom smell, or a smell that isn’t really there. Rotting food. In summary, while smelling burnt toast is not a typical sign of a stroke, changes in smell can occur after a stroke due to damage to the parts of the brain that interpret smells. This is not true 1. 5. Oct 12, 2024 · Now let’s delve into the myth surrounding smelling toast and its alleged association with strokes. When this occurs, part of the brain no longer receives the oxygen it needs, and the tissue in that area starts to die. If the anosmia is the result of cell-death or neuronal blockage at the level of the nose and olfactory receptors themselves, the parts of the brain responsible for interpreting those stimuli can still survive for a while after the anosmia begins. Nov 27, 2024 · the misconception that burnt toast is a warning sign of a heart attack likely stems from the fact that some people report smelling unusual odors just before experiencing a stroke. Balance, eyesight, face, arms, speech, time. Stroke: In some cases, smelling burnt toast could potentially be a sign of a stroke. A metallic odor. Most stroke survivors did not smell toast. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why you might smell burnt toast and when it is necessary to seek medical attention. I go back to the lounge and there's no smell, almost as if it moved. The Montréal neurosurgeon made ground-breaking advances in the treatment of seizure disorders (1934). Sep 6, 2024 · Picture this: you’re casually sipping your morning coffee when suddenly, the unmistakable scent of burnt toast hits you out of nowhere. The etiology of ischemic stroke was determined by TOAST (the Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment classification), including large artery atherosclerosis (n = 11), cardioembolism (n = 21), small vessel occlusion (n = 14), other etiology (n = 1), and undetermined etiology (n = 26) (Table 2). Other brain pathology, and not just strokes, can also cause these symptoms. Phantom smells can include scents that a Mar 16, 2021 · There is a myth that the smell of burnt toast means you're having a stroke. Phantom smells, or phantosmia, are a real phenomenon, but they are usually not the result of a brain blockage. Parosmia can happen after a stroke, especially if the frontal lobe of the brain is affected. Even if this happens, get medical help straight away. This olfactory hallucination is a serious warning sign that should not be ignored. Phantosmia is also called a Sep 25, 2024 · Additionally, while smelling burnt toast may not be a primary indicator of a stroke, it is important to note that stroke can sometimes affect an individual's sense of smell. "Smelling toast" has been a generic term for having a stroke and is not a diagnostic criteria. org. Smelling burnt toast when there is no toast to be burnt is a popularly recognized sign of a possible health concern, more specifically a stroke or brain tumor. Jul 26, 2017 · STROKE or brain tumour symptoms have long been associated with the onset of a strong smell such as burnt toast or rubber - which only you can detect. However, because a stroke can occur in any region of the brain, the sense of smell can be affected. About 795,000 Americans suffer from a stroke every year, and 160,000 pass away due to causes related to strokes. The olfactory hallucination of burnt toast can be a part of the warning signs of a stroke due to the brain’s response to the lack of blood flow. While smelling burnt toast is not a typical sign of a stroke, it can be related to a number of conditions, including a stroke. There is a fairly common misconception that if you smell something that is not there (such as burnt toast) it is a sign of a stroke. This can result in temporary or permanent conditions, including paralysis, memory loss, difficulty swallowing or speaking, pain or tingling and sometimes death. You check the toaster—nothing. ] Davis: Do you know what this means. uk Nov 15, 2022 · But does the “burnt toast” symptom exist or is it just a myth? Unfortunately for my old morning routine, it appears that there is very little evidence suggesting that smelling burnt toast or other forms of phantosmia (the medical term for unexplained scents) are a symptom of stroke 2. Q: Can smelling burnt toast be a spiritual sign? Feb 22, 2025 · There is a common myth that during a stroke, the victim will perceive the smell of burning toast. Dec 12, 2024 · The smell of burnt toast when there is none is known as phantosmia, a common type of olfactory hallucination. The smell of burnt toast could be a sign a stroke has occured. This is very different from the actual symptoms and typical signs of a heart attack, which usually include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and May 30, 2020 · Cognitive impairment is common during stroke and can be a lasting side effect. Is it proven that smelling toast is a sure sign of stroke? Is smelling burnt toast a sign of a stroke? A common side effect of having a stroke is smelling a burnt toast smell. Garbage. Ask a science question, get a science answer. Balance changes, sudden difficulty seeing, numbness or weakness in the face and arms, and slurred speech are all common signs of stroke. So smelling burnt toast is a myth? Smelling something that isn't there, including burning toast or hair is phantosmia. Instead, it's typically a phantom smell, known as phantosmia, caused by various medical conditions, such as sinus infections or migraines. , and women make up nearly 60% of all stroke deaths. Impact of olfactory function changes Dec 21, 2023 · The smells vary between individuals but are usually unpleasant, such as burnt toast, metallic, or chemical smells. The Helpline can give you information and support on any aspect of stroke. tv/videos/sophs-notes-do-strokes-always-smell-like-burnt-toastGet 40% of an annual Nebula membership (that Sep 1, 2020 · Do you smell burnt toast during a stroke? Although lots of people think smelling something burning is a sign of a stroke, there’s no solid evidence this is true. Jun 20, 2023 · Zafar: Contrary to popular belief, smelling burnt toast when there is none is not a proven sign of a stroke. If you experience any warning signs of a stroke, such as sudden numbness, weakness, speech difficulties, or confusion, seek immediate medical attention. If you experience recurring phantom smells, it is advisable to consult your primary care physician to rule out medication side effects or possible infections. For some people, these odors are pleasant, like freshly baked sweets. Here’s what you need to know. In some spiritual beliefs, sensing a smell like burnt toast without a physical source could be a form of clairalience – that’s basically a spiritual or psychic smelling ability. Sometimes, phantosmia is confused with parosmia. Jun 28, 2024 · This anecdotal account captured the public’s attention and contributed to the widespread belief that smelling burnt toast is a sign of an impending stroke. Nov 27, 2024 · The misconception that burnt toast is a warning sign of a heart attack likely stems from the fact that some people report smelling unusual odors just before experiencing a stroke or seizure. T here’s a long-standing idea that the phantom scent of burnt toast — that is, smelling burnt toast when it’s not really there — means you’re going to have a stroke. You’re not even making toast! For many, this phantom smell has led to a worry that something more sinister, like a stroke, is at… Stroke; Depression; Medications; Phantosmia vs. Oct 2, 2024 · For instance, you might smell burnt toast when, in reality, you are smelling freshly brewed coffee. The belief that smelling burnt toast is a precursor to a stroke has gained traction in recent years, becoming a topic of discussion. It is possible to experience olfactory hallucinations when you have a brain abnormality, such as a brain tumor, or if you are about to experience a seizure or a stroke. Our Stroke Support Helpline is for anyone affected by a stroke, including family, friends and carers. For more in Posted by u/alm1688 - 3 votes and 9 comments Feb 3, 2022 · Stroke Symptoms Checklist - HealthyWomen › Clinically Speaking: Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider › Is Smelling Burnt Toast a Sign That You're Having a Stroke › Symptoms of Heart Attacks in Women - HealthyWomen › The Intersection of Heart Disease, Diabetes and Stroke - HealthyWomen › Cardiac Arrest vs. Olfactory hallucinations can occur in severe and extensive strokes. In some severe cases, dysosmia may be permanent. The medical term for this is phantosmia; an olfactory hallucination. Neurological Links: Smell changes may indicate underlying health issues. Call 911 and try to remain calm until help arrives. Nov 7, 2017 · If you believe you are having a stroke, don't drive. 4 days ago · The smells can be unpleasant such as burnt toast, metallic or chemical smells. Diabetes: Having either type 1 or type 2 diabetes makes you twice as likely Jul 6, 2024 · A doctor has revealed that smelling burnt toast isn't really a reliable sign of a stroke - but that doesn't mean you can relax if you have this symptom. Jul 6, 2018 · The type of symptoms you have depends on what part of the brain the stroke is affecting. Apr 30, 2010 · A stroke happens when a blood vessel carrying oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot (ischemic stroke) or ruptures (hemorrhagic stroke). Smelling burnt toast is a myth, has not factual basis. Customer: Have a question what does it mean when you smell burnt toast but there is no toast around cause I was told it is a sign of a stroke is that right or just hearsay Answered by DocTW in 3 mins 3 years ago Mar 16, 2021 · There is a myth that the smell of burnt toast means you're having a stroke. This belief has been perpetuated for years, often as a result of anecdotal stories or old wives’ tales. Furthermore the perceived smell can present as a number of things, not just burnt toast" So, it sounds like it's something that CAN happen but not always and not always burnt toast. Jan 9, 2024 · While strokes may cause unusual sensory issues such as changes to taste and smell, smelling burned toast is not a reliable indicator. But the evidence is inconclusive as to whether phantom smells — known as olfactory hallucinations or phantosmia — are associated with having a stroke, and phantosmia seems to be more associated with side effects of certain medications or sinus problems than brain Sep 6, 2024 · I also learned that the smell of burnt toast is not necessarily a sign of having a stroke. However, it's not a good idea to use it to diagnose a stroke. Think about it: stroke happens somewhere in the brain. Phantosmia and Stroke Symptoms : The condition known as phantosmia, where individuals smell odors that aren’t there, illustrates the complexity of neurological symptoms but Sep 16, 2024 · It has been observed that some individuals experience a distinctive odor of burnt toast or another strong smell like sulfur or burned rubber shortly before having a stroke. Now, let’s address the claim that the smell of burnt toast can indicate a stroke. Watch this video ad free on Nebula: https://nebula. Jan 13, 2025 · For example, you might smell burnt toast when the aroma is actually fresh-brewed coffee. Contrary to popular belief, smelling burnt toast is not an actual symptom of a stroke. NIHSS scores ranged from 0 to 18 (Median 4 Nov 10, 2023 · The case of the burnt toast smell is often connected to that of having a stroke. But the evidence is inconclusive as to whether phantom smells — known as olfactory hallucinations or phantosmia — are associated with having a stroke, and phantosmia seems to be more associated with side effects of certain medications or sinus problems than brain Mar 7, 2023 · Phantosmia refers to any smell you detect that isn’t actually there. Anyway the scent persists and we both note the smell. A. [Shot of Emma blowing a toaster with burning toast out the window] Emma: Damn thing. Wait I smell it too. 12. Parosmia. as you ate your toast you watched planes crash into the world trade centres on TV, and now your perceived trauma has mutated with the smell of the food you were eating. Nov 15, 2022 · But does the “burnt toast” symptom exist or is it just a myth? Unfortunately for my old morning routine, it appears that there is very little evidence suggesting that smelling burnt toast or other forms of phantosmia (the medical term for unexplained scents) are a symptom of stroke 2. Oscar: I caught your epilepsy? Apr 19, 2022 · Some people with COVID-19 report that familiar objects smell like sewage, rotten eggs or meat, citrus and moldy socks. Smelling burnt toast isn't a definitive sign of a stroke. It can actually be a symptom of some "This can happen to stroke victims, depending on what part of the brain is damaged during the stroke but it does not always happen. Research has shown no connection between smelling toast and having a stroke. A stroke happens when blood flow in the brain is blocked and can result in paralysis, speech problems and even death. Feb 2, 2024 · Smelling burnt toast without a physical source can get into the Spiritual category. Spiritual Interpretations of Smelling Burnt Toast. It also can be caused by aging, trauma, temporal lobe seizures, inflamed sinuses, brain tumors, certain medicines and Parkinson's disease. A stroke is more likely to happen if you're older, but it can happen at any age. F. A man performed surgery on her brain while she was awake, prodding different areas of her brain to provoke bizarre responses. Smelling toast or other burnt things is a common phantom smell, which can be a symptom of epilepsy, seizures, or head trauma, but usually not stroke and certainly not heart attack. Sep 9, 2019 · What do if you smell toast? Smelling burnt toast is a common type of phantom smell. then forced you to eat the whole thing because wasting food is unbecoming. In order to rule out these issues, you can visit a doctor and get a brain MRI. Possible causes range from nasal polyps to a stroke. Parosmia is a distorted sense of smell, when you are smelling real things but not accurately. This occurrence is known as aphantosmia, which refers to the inability to perceive odors, or more specifically, olfactory hallucinations. Mar 16, 2021 · A stroke occurs when the brain's blood supply is reduced or stopped, which causes the brain to be deprived of oxygen and nutrients. [Back to Oscar and Davis. . These phantom smells can vary but are usually unpleasant, such as burnt toast, metallic or chemical odours. The first signs of a stroke include sudden numbness or weakness in any part of the body, trouble. Smelling smoky or burning smells — including burnt toast — is a common type of phantosmia. People with parosmia often describe the smells as unpleasant. Oct 7, 2024 · One important aspect of stroke prevention is recognizing the warning signs that can occur before a stroke happens. May 16, 2023 · High blood pressure: High blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke and the most significant controllable risk factor. Aug 22, 2023 · The smell of burning toast may seem like a sign of stroke, and it's not impossible. Jul 2, 2024 · 4. Phantosmia is also called a The idea that one might smell toast when experiencing a stroke has circulated widely. But the evidence is inconclusive as to whether phantom smells — known as olfactory hallucinations or phantosmia — are associated with having a stroke, and phantosmia seems to be more associated with side effects of certain medications or sinus problems than brain likely yes!But it's complicated. While smelling burnt toast is not a typical sign of a stroke, phantom smells can be related to a number of conditions, and in some cases, even a stroke. Does anyone else have clear memories of being told smelling burnt toast is a sign of a stroke as a kid or teen in the UK? I've narrowed it down to my millennial colleagues that we had this discussion and it turns out after a 23 year old told it wasn't true that you smell burnt toast as part of a stroke. Nevertheless, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that smelling burnt toast specifically indicates a stroke. B. Although lots of people think smelling something burning is a sign of a stroke, there's no solid evidence this is true. It can be a sign of a serious medical condition. It's not just in one room either I have a 4 bedroom 3bath 9room house and you can smell it throughout the entire house. Feb 21, 2024 · The Myth of Smelling Toast: Popular culture, especially depicted in shows like “Archer,” perpetuates the baseless myth that smelling toast is a precursor to a stroke. The Importance of Recognizing Pre-Stroke Warning Signs Do people smell toast when having a stroke? It happens when the brain says it smells something, but the nose didn't actually detect anything. Tobacco smoke. Edit: I learned this is false. The smell of burnt toast lingers due to the chemical compounds released during the burning process. Olfactory hallucinations are a neurological problem that can occur after neuro damage such as a stroke, brain tumor, or encephalitis. Phantosmia may be caused by a head injury or upper respiratory infection. Feb 23, 2025 · What If You Smell Burnt Toast Ing Is It A Sign Of Heart Attack? In this article, we will explore the possible causes of. People often chat Sep 2, 2024 · The Burnt Toast Myth. People often chat Oct 5, 2020 · It’s also called olfactory hallucination. Debunking the Myth Sensory Aura and Migraines. com Jan 10, 2025 · It is important to note that smelling burnt toast is not a typical sign of a stroke or heart attack. Understanding Strokes Jun 5, 2024 · The phantom smell may seem to always be there or it may come and go. Jul 27, 2017 · Smell. Jul 25, 2024 · Phantosmia refers to the perception of an odor that isn’t actually present. Chemicals. The movie finishes and we leave the lounge and my mom asks my dad and my sisters if they can smell burnt toast. Smelling burnt toast is not indicative of a stroke but rather a possible effect of a stroke. Parosmia differs from phantosmia, where people smell something that isn't there. While the smell of burnt toast is often cited as a potential pre-stroke warning sign, it is essential to understand the context and other symptoms that may accompany it. can help identify signs of a stroke: B: Balance — Is someone struggling with balance or Jul 2, 2023 · Is smelling burnt toast always a sign of a stroke? No, while smelling burnt toast when none is present has been associated with certain types of strokes or seizures, phantom smells (phantosmia) can have many causes ranging from sinus infections to medication effects. A stroke occurs when there is an interruption of blood supply to the brain, causing brain cell damage. Mar 16, 2021 · There is a myth that the smell of burnt toast means you're having a stroke. However, this isn’t a definitive sign of a stroke and can be influenced by various factors. Time is a critical factor when it comes to treating strokes, so recognizing and acting upon the symptoms can save lives. Actually smelling toast isn't a sign of a stroke either, that's a myth. Sensatory hallucinations can happen with a stroke but there is no one thing. Stroke Symptoms: Recognizing FAST signs can be life-saving in emergencies. By: Marlene In the case of strokes or other neurological events, this connection can lead to unusual sensory experiences. What smell is associated with a stroke? The idea of smelling burnt toast is a common myth, but there is no solid evidence linking that specific smell to stroke. Burnt toast. But the evidence is inconclusive as to whether phantom smells — known as olfactory hallucinations or phantosmia — are associated with having a stroke, and phantosmia seems to be more associated with side effects of certain medications or sinus problems than brain See full list on healthline. Sep 6, 2023 · Smelling burnt toast (when there's no actual bread burning) is called an olfactory hallucination. They may be temporary or last for a long time. E. If you experience any unusual symptoms or suspect a stroke, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. S. One patient smelled burnt toast as a result of her specific ailment, but this is not the norm. However, this is not a classic sign of stroke, and there are other more common symptoms to look out for, such as those summarized by the acronym BEFAST or FAST. Jun 30, 2021 · Women have a higher risk of stroke than men, and there are some actions people can take to reduce their risk. Some scents you may perceive include: cigarette or fire smoke, or burning; feces ; chemicals; garlic; burnt toast; It is also relatively common for some people to be unable to identify what the phantom smell resembles. The burnt toast thing was actually a result of a woman with epilepsy smelling burnt toast right before her seizures. Preventative StepsPreventative Steps Hyposmia: a reduced ability to smell. But the evidence is inconclusive as to whether phantom smells — known as olfactory hallucinations or phantosmia — are associated with having a stroke, and phantosmia seems to be more associated with side effects of certain medications or sinus problems than brain Smelling burnt toast isn't a definitive sign of a stroke. Although smelling burnt toast can be present, it is rarely limited to Jan 10, 2025 · However, a stroke can sometimes affect an individual's sense of smell. A moldy or stale smell. Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) consist of stroke-like symptoms Dec 21, 2023 · The smells vary between individuals but are usually unpleasant, such as burnt toast, metallic, or chemical smells. My one sister confirms this and we go to her room and the smell is extremely strong. Wilder Penfield was born January 26th, 1891. Some individuals report smelling burnt toast as an aura before a seizure or as part of a stroke’s symptomatology. In many television shows and movies, characters often mention this specific smell as a precursor to a stroke or other serious medical conditions. Immediate Attention: Seek help if unusual smells accompany stroke symptoms. Unusual Odors: Some report smelling burnt toast or metal before a stroke. could be anything. I smell burning toast Oscar: Oh, now the big guy's gonna have a seizure. The acronym B. If a phantom smell keeps recurring—no matter what you’re smelling, from burnt toast to sulfur to apple Dec 12, 2024 · In some cases, people may smell things that are not actually present, a condition known as phantosmia or olfactory hallucinations. Stroke symptoms, however, include classic signs like: May 31, 2019 · Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the U. However, stroke and other serious conditions can sometimes affect a person's sense of smell. However, this misconception may stem from the association between stroke and changes in sensory perceptions. Nov 9, 2024 · There is no solid evidence that smelling burnt toast indicates a stroke; The smell of burning toast is called phantosmia, a type of olfactory hallucination; Phantosmia can be caused by sinus problems, certain medications, and brain disorders; The smell of burning toast is not a typical sign of a heart attack Feb 23, 2024 · This article looks at whether smelling burnt toast may be a sign of a heart attack, whether the odor may indicate a stroke, and what else could cause a person to experience phantom smells. I'll be in my room and someone else in the house will yell out burnt toast lol and everyone in other rooms are smelling it. How long does dysosmia last? Dysosmia may last anywhere from a week to a few months. If you are experiencing strange sensations, smells, weakness, loss of function, you should seek further care. Aug 3, 2024 · While smelling burnt toast may not indicate a stroke, it is crucial to be aware of the genuine warning signs. Mar 16, 2021 · There is a myth that the smell of burnt toast means you're having a stroke. The association between phantom smells and strokes is inconclusive, and phantosmia seems to be more associated with side effects of certain medications or sinus problems than brain disorders HealthyWomen . Heart Attack 25M subscribers in the askscience community. Olfactory hallucination is not a common symptom of stroke. It seems to stem from anecdotal accounts and popular media portrayals of medical emergencies. Both phantosmia and parosmia are linked to the frontal lobe of the brain, which is responsible for how odours are perceived and processed. Stroke effects may, however, lead to phantom smells. Thus, smelling burnt toast is not a certain indication of a stroke [2, 3]. Sep 12, 2024 · Q: Does smelling burnt toast mean I’m having a stroke? A: It’s a common myth that smelling burnt toast is a sign of a stroke, but this is generally untrue. But most people describe unpleasant smells, such as: Burning rubber. Mike figuero, head of the american aed cpr association, said it was a 'common myth' that a person having a stroke would begin to smell burned toast and said it was actually. There is a common myth that during a stroke, the victim will perceive the smell of burning toast. The smells may always be present, or may come and go. People often chat about the supposed symptom on Reddit, and the stroke-toast rumor was even mentioned in a song by comedian and musician Bo Burnham. For example, smelling oranges might smell like chemical cleaner instead. Others say they smell burnt toast or unique scents. Dec 6, 2024 · There’s a long-standing idea that the phantom scent of burnt toast — that is, smelling burnt toast when it’s not really there — means you’re going to have a stroke. I talk to everyone I can about steps you can take to increase your chances of survival if you're having a stroke. While smelling burnt toast can be a sign of a stroke, there are other possible explanations for this peculiar scent. The smell of burnt toast could be a sign that you or someone close to you has had a stroke. But the evidence is inconclusive as to whether phantom smells — known as olfactory hallucinations or phantosmia — are associated with having a stroke, and phantosmia seems to be more associated with side effects of certain medications or sinus problems than brain Symptoms of a stroke can sometimes stop after a short time, so you may think you're OK. mpwyarv erl lxdzerq hlrsu beml xxgil ltfw cvavgnze boxwcn zslolv llou scintebn cwyncl uvwec vvjvm