Home Fragrances: Major Cause For Asthma and Allergies

Scented candles, air fresheners and air fresheners spread of toxic chemicals that can cause allergy symptoms and aggravate existing allergies and asthma, warned speakers at the Congress of the American College of Allergy , Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). As these products are gaining popularity and are present in various environments, especially at work sometimes, more and more people have strong reactions.

Dr. Stanley Fineman, president of the ACAAI, particularly cited a 2009 study published in the Journal of Environmental Health in which 31% of 2000 participants reported reactions to the perfumes worn by other people and 19% in the coolers of air (34% in people with asthma).

The air fresheners emit more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) known to be allergens (and for some carcinogens). Even at concentrations lower than acceptable, they can trigger asthma symptoms in children. At higher concentrations, they can cause dizziness, headache, irritation of the respiratory tract and eyes and even memory problems, said Dr. Fineman.

Even products that say organic, green or natural and not scented emit hazardous chemicals, he says.

The home fragrances, often put forward as having the virtues of aromatherapy, are increasingly used not only on special occasions, but in daily life, he says.

These products are not regulated enough in the opinion of several groups. In the meantime, consumers can boycott them …