Some people suffer from uncomfortable symptoms as a result of being exposed to fragrances. There are two types of allergy symptoms due to fragrance sensitivity, respiratory, nose and eye symptoms, similar to seasonal allergy symptoms or skin allergy symptoms. Symptoms of fragrance sensitivity include the following:
- Headache
- Trouble breathing
- Development of a skin rash
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- A tight feeling in the chest
- Worsening asthma symptoms
- Runny and stuffy nose
- A skin allergy like contact dermatitis — an itchy, red rash that appears on the skin
A study from the University of West Georgia showed at 30% of people surveyed said they find scented products irritating. Scents may be particularly problematic for those suffering from asthma or chemical sensitivities.
How to prevent and treat fragrance sensitivities
The good news is that there are some things that you can do for relief from allergy symptoms caused by fragrance sensitivity. These include using nasal antihistamine and nasal corticosteroid medications if necessary and scent free products lotions, soaps, skin care products, laundry detergents and fabric softeners.
Those with fragrance sensitivity should even be careful with cleaning and deodorising products used in the home. Ensure you use fragrance free products so as not to aggravate your allergy symptoms.
It might even be necessary to ask those around you on a daily basis to abstain from wearing a lot of fragranced products, so as to help with your allergies.
Of course, sensitivity to fragrances can vary among individuals, so there are no blanket rules to follow, each case is different.
