For allergy sufferers with sensitivities to artificial fragrances, the world may seem like an increasingly hostile place. Hand soap, laundry detergent, hair spray, shampoo, lotion, face cream and deodorant all conspire to bombard us with a plethora of different scents.
"One reason that fragrant sensitivities are on the rise is that the use of fragrances is becoming a lot more prominent in this world," allergist Merritt Fait recently told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "Now there are about 500 different fragrances and even more if you combine the different fragrances."
While many of us are annoyed by strong-smelling colognes and sprays, in some people fragrance sensitivities can actually cause trouble breathing, nasal and bronchial irritation, headaches, stomach pain and skin problems. Fait says traditional allergy medications like prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines can help manage symptoms. One patient quoted in the article says she gets a monthly allergy shot that has significantly improved her condition.
Some sufferers have particularly severe reactions that can even be life-threatening. A 16-year-old Pennsylvania boy interviewed by the Post-Gazette said that he once went into anaphylactic shock after smelling the Axe body spray popular with many adolescents and teens. NBC News reports that a Massachusetts woman sued her coworker in 2007 after the woman's perfume gave her an allergic reaction that landed her in the hospital. Some offices and schools now have fragrance-free policies.
If you suffer from allergic sensitivities, consider investing in a variety of allergy control products to help manage your symptoms. Hypoallergenic bedding minimizes the presence of dust and dust mites and an allergen air purifier helps remove allergens like pollen from your living space. Check out these and other items on the Allergy Be Gone website today!
