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Have Craving For The Smell Of Nail Polish Remover, Which Contains Acetone. Blood Test Normal. Cause?

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Posted on Wed, 7 Aug 2013
Question: Hello,
In the last 4-5 months I have noticed an incredible craving for the smell of my nail polish remover, which contains acetone. I went to have a physical and did have bloodwork done, but all I heard back was that my bloodwork was fine. What could be causing this craving? Thank you
doctor
Answered by Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar (1 hour later)
Hi,

Acetone has a very attractive fruity flavor so it causes natural craving for the smell. So it was not your fault in entirely. You will not have any physical damage. That was evident on your blood work up.

I suggest you should keep away from the nail polish and remover for some days. Do not buy them after this bottle or if possible do not go to that area of the store if you go on shopping. If you have craving you possible go and buy. So you have to keep yourself strong.

If required you can XXXXXXX a psychotherapist for behaviour therapy. They can guide you well.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Aparna Kohli
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar (3 hours later)
It actually has a very chemical smell, not nutty or fruity. What about PICA? Or perhaps a vitamin deficiency such as zinc for the craving? XXXXXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar (3 hours later)
It is a good idea to test for anemia and supplement with zinc. You can get Hemoglobin test and Serum Ferrtin. If the values are not within limits then you can see a doctor for Iron supplements.

You can include a multivitamin and multimineral tablet available over the counter. You can approach the local pharmacy and the pharmacist will be able to guide you.

A person with PICA has cravings for a lot of non food items but it is not vice versa. My suggestion is to seek alternative nail removers which are herbal in nature than the acetone based one.

All the best.
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Aparna Kohli
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 2242 Questions

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Have Craving For The Smell Of Nail Polish Remover, Which Contains Acetone. Blood Test Normal. Cause?

Hi,

Acetone has a very attractive fruity flavor so it causes natural craving for the smell. So it was not your fault in entirely. You will not have any physical damage. That was evident on your blood work up.

I suggest you should keep away from the nail polish and remover for some days. Do not buy them after this bottle or if possible do not go to that area of the store if you go on shopping. If you have craving you possible go and buy. So you have to keep yourself strong.

If required you can XXXXXXX a psychotherapist for behaviour therapy. They can guide you well.