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Some people react to chemicals in their environment and experience allergy-like symptoms in response to a wide variety of synthetic and natural substances. Such substances can be found in:
Paints
Carpeting
Plastic
Perfumes
Smoke
Plants
Although the symptoms may resemble those of allergies, including nose and eye irritation, coughing, difficulty breathing, and rash, they do not represent a true allergy involving the immune system and release of histamine.
Fragrances are additives in many products we use daily, including hygiene and bath products, cleaning products, detergents and many other consumer products. People sensitive to these products must closely control what products they allow into the home in order to avoid exposure to fragrances.
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Fragrances are reported to be the second most common cause of allergic contact dermatitis. Dermatitis, or inflamed skin, is a form of eczema. Fragrances can also provoke respiratory reactions when inhaled. Fragrance exposure can worsen the symptoms of asthma sufferers by causing additional irritation to airways. Symptoms of fragrance sensitivity include:
Rashes
Itchy skin, eyes and nose
Runny nose
Wheezing
Coughing
Hives
Eczema (dry skin)
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Methods to prevent exposure to fragrance and other chemical irritants include:
Double-rinsing all detergents out of clothing and avoiding use of fabric softeners.
Use of fragrance-free personal-care items.
Avoiding perfumes, colognes, aftershaves, fingernail-care products and hairspray.
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