Reactions to perfumes or cleaning products
Overview
Reactions to perfumes or cleaning products are allergic or sensitivity responses that occur when exposed to fragrances, chemicals, or volatile compounds found in scented items and household cleaners. These reactions can cause symptoms like sneezing, headaches, skin irritation, respiratory issues, or nausea upon contact or inhalation.
Common Causes
Strong scents from perfumes, colognes, and household cleaning products can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals due to the volatile chemicals they release into the air. Your body's immune system may overreact to these artificial fragrances and chemical compounds, treating them as harmful invaders. Poor indoor air circulation can concentrate these scents, making reactions more likely, while stress and hormonal changes can also increase your sensitivity to environmental triggers.
Severity Levels
Mild: You may experience occasional sneezing, minor headaches, or slight skin irritation when exposed to certain scented products. These symptoms are usually brief and resolve quickly once you move away from the trigger.
Moderate: You notice consistent reactions like persistent headaches, skin redness, nasal congestion, or mild breathing difficulties when around perfumes or cleaning products. Symptoms may last several hours and interfere with daily activities.
Severe: You experience intense reactions including severe headaches, significant breathing problems, widespread skin reactions, or nausea that can be debilitating. These symptoms may require immediate removal from the environment and can impact your ability to function in spaces with scented products.
Medical Attention
Seek medical attention if you experience severe breathing difficulties, persistent wheezing, or throat swelling after exposure to fragrances or cleaning products. Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen over time, don't improve after avoiding the trigger, or if you develop widespread skin reactions. Get emergency help immediately if you have signs of a severe allergic reaction like difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, or dizziness.

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