Popular Air Fresheners Trigger Allergies, Asthma

Air fresheners and other chemical fragrances can trigger allergies and asthma, according to new research.

Due to the widespread usage of air fresheners and similar chemical concoctions, many allergy and asthma sufferers may actually be responding to these fragrance enhancers as opposed to the environment. Such products include scented candles, plug-in deodorizers and wick diffusers.

“The chemicals in some of these products can trigger the nasal congestion, sneezing and the runny nose,” said Dr. Stanley Fineman, an allergist with Emory University and the Atlanta Allergy & Asthma Clinic. “With the asthmatics, there’s really good data showing their lung function changes when they’re exposed to these compounds.

Chemical hypersensitivity in asthmatics established in 2009

Previous research adds evidence to the findings and also highlighting the negative effects of synthetic chemicals on many asthmatics.

In 2009, a study conducted by Caress and Anne Steinenmann at the University of Washington found that around 1/3 of asthmatics have chemical hypersensitivity, and more than 1/3 reported irritation from scented products.

‘The more you’re around, the more likely it is to cause an attack,’ Caress said. ‘People with asthma, many of them should try to avoid artificially fragranced products.

Most shocking is the fact that many harsh chemicals may also be found in products labeled ‘natural’ and ‘green’. In the past it has even been found that many ‘eco-friendly’ and ‘green’ products actually contain toxic ingredients similar to conventional chemical cleaners.

The labeling of products is oftentimes deceptive, and the problem is not unique to fragrance items. In fact, the food industry is filled with deceptive labeling, tricking customers into thinking they are purchasing high quality items when in fact they are oftentimes loaded with GMOs and high-fructose corn syrup. That is why it is essential to learn how to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy products, not only in the field of food products but household items as well.

In order to isolate and avoid asthma and allergy triggers, rid your home of harsh chemical cleaners and air fresheners. Not only will it help your asthma and allergies, but it will also improve your overall health.

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