Avoiding things that might set off allergic reactions or asthma attacks is a crucial component of managing respiratory disorders like asthma and allergies so they don't interfere with a person's quality of life. People who suffer from asthma and allergies have traditionally been advised to ensure that their homes and places of employment are free from irritants such as mold spores, pet dander, dust mites, plant pollen, smoke, and bug detritus. In addition, new research has shown that those who suffer from respiratory ailments should avoid using air fresheners since they contain chemicals that might exacerbate their symptoms. If at all they need to use air fresheners they should be made of all natural products.
Content Table
- Chemical Air Fresheners Trigger Allergies and Worsen Asthma
- The Most Common VOCs Found in Air Fresheners
Chemical Air Fresheners Trigger Allergies and Worsen Asthma
It has been discovered that breathing in the chemicals that are used in typical air fresheners may cause allergy patients to feel nasal congestion, a runny nose, and sneezing. The lung function of people with asthma was observed to decrease when they were exposed to air fresheners, according to the findings of the research. In addition to being utilized in the manufacturing of scented candles, plug-in deodorizers, and wick diffusers, the chemicals that give air fresheners their aroma are also employed in the creation of wick diffusers. When this is considered, it is quite probable that certain goods will prove to be unpleasant to allergy and asthma patients and should thus be avoided.
Sensitivity, not allergy, is to blame for the bad responses that people who suffer from allergies experience to air fresheners. This distinction is important because it demonstrates that sensitivity to a substance, such as the lactose in milk, is not the same as having an allergic reaction to a substance, such as a peanut butter. An allergic reaction, on the other hand, involves your immune system attacking the substance as foreign. People who suffer from allergies can worsen their condition, which is triggered by the aroma of an air freshener. However, they may quickly recover from their symptoms by moving out of the area that has the irritating fragrance and into an area that does not contain the offending fragrance. If a person who is allergic to the chemicals in an air freshener were to be exposed to it, their immune system would have an extreme reaction, and if they did not get quick medical care, their lives could be at risk as well.
It has been shown that air fresheners not only make the condition of someone who suffers from allergies worse, but the impact that they have on those who suffer from asthma is far more severe. According to the findings of various research, 34% of asthma patients who were exposed to scented candles or air fresheners developed symptoms of the respiratory condition. The problematic nature of the situation may be traced back to the volatile organic chemicals that are used in the production of the unique odors that are included in such items. It was shown that asthma patients who were exposed to chemicals such as esters, formaldehyde, petroleum distillates, and limonene had symptoms such as dizziness, airway constriction, irritation of the eyes, and even decreased memory. Before buying an air freshener, it is crucial that people with asthma and allergies check the label carefully as sometimes even products that are marketed as natural can contain chemicals in the form of preservatives.
The Most Common VOCs Found in Air Fresheners
Many room fresheners spray and fresheners for homes contain something known as VOCs, which are volatile organic compounds. These chemicals "mask" rather than eliminate smells from the home, despite the scents smelling great and fresh. The following are some of the most typical VOCs that may be detected in air fresheners:
- Alcohols
- Esters are produced when an acid and an alcohol are condensed together. Used often in the production of these scents.
- Formaldehyde is something that is known to be a human carcinogen. Fabrics that are crease-resistant are often produced by the textile industry by using resins that are based on formaldehyde. Cars, as well as the components for electrical systems, engine blocks, door panels, brake shoes, and axles, are all made using derivatives. Derivatives are also used in the production of food.
- Limonene is an odorous liquid hydrocarbon that smells strongly of oranges. It is colorless and liquid. It is within the category of cyclic terpenes. It plays an important role in the production of carvone. Cleaning applications, such as removing oil from machine components, are driving increased demand for its usage as a solvent in recent years.
- Petroleum Distillates
Even at levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC) that are considered safe, children might have their asthma symptoms triggered. When exposed to larger quantities of volatile organic compounds, individuals are more likely to develop symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, irritation of the respiratory tract, irritation of the eyes, and even memory issues. They have severe long-term consequences and are unsafe around children as well as pets.
Closing
There have been various studies that show that room freshener sprays and scented candles can act as triggers for allergy symptoms and cause more severe asthma attacks, especially in people that are prone to it. Due to the chemicals these contain, they can cause other severe health concerns and it's best to switch them out for natural air fresheners that are chemical free
FAQs on Room Air Fresheners
Can air Fresheners Trigger Asthma?
Yes, air fresheners and other chemicals used to disseminate aromatic odors throughout a house should be avoided by those who suffer from asthma or allergies, and their physicians should be informed of the potential dangers that these products are associated with.
What air Fresheners are Safe for Asthmatics?
Natural air fresheners, made at home or with organic products are safe for people with asthma. Natural air fresheners that contain baking soda, essential oils, vinegar and other natural products can all work.
Can Air Fresheners Cause Respiratory Problems?
Yes, chemical-laden air fresheners that contain VOC can cause various respiratory problems for people. They can also aggravate asthma and allergies due to their chemical composition. They contain carcinogens, irritants, allergens, and toxins.
What are the Side Effects of Air Fresheners?
People may have a variety of respiratory issues if they use air fresheners that are full of chemicals and include VOC. Because of the chemical makeup of these substances, they may potentially make asthma and allergic reactions worse. They are known to cause cancer, as well as irritants, allergies, and toxic effects.