Can You Smell Your Own Breath?
| Updated: 10 Feb 2026
Why can’t you smell your own breath if you breathe in through your mouth and out of your nose?
Question
Why can’t you smell your own breath if you breathe in through your mouth and out of your nose?
Karl, Birmingham
Answer
Name: John, Lambeth
Qualification: Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeon
Answer: When you breathe in, the air is light and is directed towards roof of your nose towards sense of smell. When you breathe out, the air is heavier and directed away from your sense of smell.