Kolajgáz

Kolajgáz is a term used to describe a specific type of olfactory hallucination, a sensory experience perceived in the absence of an external stimulus. This phenomenon involves the perception of unpleasant, often foul, odors. The nature of the perceived smell can vary greatly, commonly described as resembling rotten eggs, feces, sewage, or burning material.

These phantom smells are not a disease in themselves but rather a symptom that can be associated with a range of underlying medical conditions. Neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, migraines, and brain tumors, are frequently implicated. For example, temporal lobe epilepsy can manifest as olfactory hallucinations occurring before or during a seizure. Degenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease have also been linked to olfactory disturbances, including kolajgáz.

Other potential causes include infections of the nasal passages or sinuses, head trauma, and certain psychiatric conditions like depression or schizophrenia. Some medications or substance abuse can also trigger such hallucinations. The experience can be transient, lasting for a few moments, or persistent over longer periods. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history, neurological examination, and sometimes imaging studies like MRI or CT scans to rule out structural abnormalities. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause.