Fragrance And Sneezing: What's The Connection?

Fragrances are a common part of our daily lives, from perfumes and colognes to cleaning agents and candles. However, for some people, these scents can trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and itchy, watery eyes. This occurs when certain ingredients or chemicals in the fragrances irritate the airways and eyes, causing discomfort and, in some cases, more severe symptoms such as migraines, respiratory difficulties, and even asthma attacks. While fragrance sensitivity is not a true allergy, it can still cause significant discomfort and impact one's ability to breathe easily. Understanding fragrance sensitivity and its triggers is crucial for managing this condition and creating a comfortable environment for those affected.

Fragrance sensitivity vs. allergies

Fragrance sensitivity and allergies are two distinct conditions with some overlapping symptoms. While the former irritates the airways and eyes, the latter triggers a whole-body immune response. Fragrance sensitivity does not involve the IgE protein, which is responsible for the allergic reaction in true allergies.

Symptoms

Symptoms of fragrance sensitivity include sneezing, coughing, a ticklish feeling in the nose, watery and itchy eyes, and a burning sensation in the nasal passages. These symptoms typically develop within minutes of exposure to a scent and can last from a few minutes to several hours. In some cases, prolonged exposure to fragrances can lead to nausea, dizziness, and skin irritation.

On the other hand, a fragrance allergy involves an abnormal immune reaction to ordinarily harmless substances in fragranced products. This type of allergy usually manifests as allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), an itchy rash that appears on the skin that has been directly exposed to the irritating substance. Other symptoms of fragrance allergies can include respiratory issues such as a stuffy or runny nose, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening.

Causes

Fragrance sensitivity is caused by irritation of the respiratory tract or mucous membranes of the eyes due to exposure to certain chemicals in natural or manufactured scents. Common triggering substances include α-pinene (APN), limonene (LIM), linalool (LIL), and eugenol (EUG).

Fragrance allergies, on the other hand, are caused by specific fragrance components called allergens that come into contact with the skin or are inhaled. These allergens trigger an immune response, leading to the release of protective proteins called antibodies, which results in allergy symptoms.

Treatment

The best way to manage fragrance sensitivity is to avoid exposure to offending fragrances. This can be achieved by using unscented products, such as soaps and lotions, and asking others to refrain from using strong fragrances around you. In cases where exposure cannot be avoided, over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers or nasal decongestants, can help alleviate symptoms.

Treatment for fragrance allergies may include avoiding products containing allergens, taking oral antihistamines, and using topical steroid creams to alleviate skin symptoms. In the case of anaphylaxis, immediate medical attention is required.

Common sources of fragrance allergies

Fragrance allergies are a response from the immune system to certain substances in perfumes, usually synthetic fragrances. Symptoms include sneezing, a runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, headaches, and in severe cases, breathing difficulties.

• Perfumes, colognes, and aftershaves
• Scented candles
• Body care products like lotions and soaps
• Skin care products, moisturisers, deodorants, and sunscreens
• Detergents and fabric softeners
• Cleaning supplies
• Air fresheners and deodorizers
• Laundry products
• Household products like scented candles, toilet paper rolls, and baby products

It is important to note that even products labelled labelled "unscented" may contain fragrances used to mask chemical smells.

Symptoms of fragrance allergies

Skin symptoms include:

• Rashes
• Redness
• Itchiness
• Blistering
• Hyperpigmentation (darker patches of skin)
• Swelling, burning, or tenderness
• Weeping or poison ivy-like reactions
• Skin peeling

Respiratory symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Itchy, watery, or red eyes
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Headaches
• Nausea and dizziness
• Difficulty breathing
• Asthma attacks
• Migraines
• Fainting or dizziness
• Memory trouble or difficulty concentrating

Treatment and prevention

If you are prone to sneezing fits due to fragrance sensitivity, there are several steps you can take to treat and prevent symptoms. Firstly, it is important to identify the specific fragrances that trigger your sneezing. This may involve some detective work, as fragrances are often hidden behind the label of ""natural fragrance" or simply "fragrance". Once you have identified the offending fragrances, the best treatment is prevention—avoid purchasing products containing these fragrances and ask those around you to refrain from using them.

In situations where you cannot avoid exposure, there are a few options for managing symptoms. Over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers or nasal decongestants can be used to treat congestion and associated pain. If you have asthma or allergies, it is important to take your usual medications to control any flare-ups caused by fragrance sensitivity.

Additionally, natural remedies such as saline nasal sprays and neti pots can be used to flush out allergens and keep the nasal mucus membranes hydrated, reducing irritation and inflammation. Increasing your intake of vitamin C and drinking chamomile tea can also help to reduce histamine levels and alleviate mild allergy symptoms.

In your home, maintaining good air quality is crucial. Consider using natural cleaning products or making your own with ingredients like baking soda or white vinegar. Investing in an air purifier can also help remove airborne allergens and improve the air quality in confined spaces.

If you are frequently exposed to fragrances that trigger sneezing in your workplace or other public spaces, it is important to speak up. Communicate your sensitivities to those around you, and consider discussing it with your employer to create a scent-free work environment.

While fragrance sensitivity is not typically life-threatening, continuous exposure can lead to chronic dermatitis and other health issues. Therefore, taking preventive measures and treating symptoms promptly is essential for your well-being.

How to identify offending fragrances

Fragrance sensitivity is when certain ingredients or chemicals in natural or manufactured scents irritate your airways and eyes. While it is sometimes used interchangeably with a fragrance allergy, a fragrance sensitivity does not involve a whole-body immune response. Instead, it suggests that some component of the fragrance is irritating to your airways.

With fragrance sensitivity, symptoms like sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes develop in response to scents like perfumes, flowers, incense, and cigarette smoke. The symptoms generally develop within minutes of exposure to a scent and can last from a few minutes to several hours. The triggering scents can differ from person to person, as can the severity of the symptoms.

If you think you might have fragrance sensitivity, here are some ways to identify offending fragrances:

• Pay attention to your surroundings: Take note of any strong smells or fragrances that seem to trigger your symptoms. Common culprits include perfumes and colognes, detergents or fabric softeners, incense, and cigarette smoke.
• Limit exposure: Once you have identified a potential offending fragrance, try to limit your contact with it and see if your symptoms improve.
• Read labels: When purchasing products, choose unscented or fragrance-free options. Be cautious of products labelled with "natural fragrance" as they may still contain chemicals that can trigger a reaction. Avoid products that list "fragrance" on the label, as even unscented products may use fragrances to mask chemical odours.
• Keep a diary: Record when you experience symptoms, where you were, and what scents you were exposed to. This can help you identify patterns and pinpoint specific fragrances that may be triggering your symptoms.
• Medical evaluation: Consult a healthcare professional if you are concerned about fragrance sensitivity. They may perform allergy tests or pulmonary function tests to evaluate your lungs and rule out other potential causes.
• Avoid known triggers: If you know certain fragrances trigger your symptoms, the best way to manage fragrance sensitivity is to avoid exposure to those fragrances. This may involve requesting that others around you refrain from wearing strong perfumes or colognes.
• Choose fragrance-free products: Opt for unscented soaps, lotions, and other personal care products. Decorate with fake flowers instead of real ones, and avoid smoking or allowing smoking indoors.
• Speak up: Inform your friends, family, and colleagues about your sensitivities. They may be unaware that their fragrances are affecting you and may be willing to make adjustments.
• Treat symptoms: In cases where you cannot avoid exposure, over-the-counter medications can help manage symptoms. This may include pain relievers or nasal decongestants. If fragrance sensitivity triggers asthma or allergy symptoms, take your prescribed medications to control those symptoms.

Frequently asked questions