Heidi Norton
Fragrance sensitivity is a common condition that can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including nausea, dizziness, migraines, and respiratory issues. While the exact cause of fragrance sensitivity is unknown, it is believed to be related to irritation of the mucous membranes in the nose and eyes, as well as certain pathways in the brain that can trigger the vomit centre. With the fragrance industry releasing around 800 new fragrances annually, and many everyday products being pre-scented, it is no surprise that some people may experience negative reactions to certain scents, such as perfumes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Symptoms | Respiratory issues (e.g. coughing, shortness of breath), migraines, eye irritation, sneezing, dizziness, nausea, headaches, involuntary muscle contractions, seizures |
| Causes | Fragrance sensitivity, allergies, irritation of mucous membranes in the nose, toxic ingredients (e.g. ethanol or isopropyl alcohol), prolonged exposure, direct skin exposure |
| Treatment | Over-the-counter medications (e.g. pain relievers, nasal decongestants), asthma or allergy medications, home remedies (e.g. washing skin with gentle soap and water, using hypoallergenic products), avoiding offending fragrances |
| Prevention | Using unscented or fragrance-free products, banning cigarettes indoors, speaking up about sensitivities to friends, family, and colleagues |
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What You'll Learn
Fragrance sensitivity
The specific symptoms experienced can vary from person to person and depend on the type of fragrance exposure. Prolonged breathing exposure to fragrances can lead to nausea and dizziness, while direct skin exposure can cause contact irritant dermatitis, characterised by skin redness, irritation, and a prickly rash. Other reported symptoms of fragrance sensitivity include respiratory difficulties, shortness of breath, migraines, headaches, eye irritation, dizziness, and mental cloudiness.
The impact of fragrance sensitivity can be significant, with some individuals reporting that they avoid certain places or products to prevent exposure to fragrances that may trigger their symptoms. Additionally, fragrance sensitivity can trigger allergic responses or asthma attacks in some people.
If you suspect you have fragrance sensitivity, the best management strategy is to avoid offending fragrances. This can include choosing unscented personal care products, using natural alternatives for cleaning, and opting for fragrance-free workplaces or social gatherings.
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Respiratory issues
Fragrance sensitivity is a common issue that can cause respiratory problems. Perfumes and fragrances contain a wide variety of organic and artificial chemicals, including α-pinene (APN), limonene (LIM), linalool (LIL), and eugenol (EUG), which can irritate the airways and eyes. Symptoms of fragrance sensitivity include sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can develop within minutes of exposure to a scent and can be persistent, requiring over-the-counter medications or even asthma or allergy medications to control symptoms.
In some cases, fragrance sensitivity can lead to more severe respiratory issues, such as asthma attacks or allergic reactions. People with asthma or allergies are more likely to experience fragrance sensitivity, and exposure to fragrances can trigger asthma or allergy symptoms. It is important for individuals with these conditions to be aware of their triggers and take the necessary precautions to avoid exposure or manage their symptoms effectively.
The impact of fragrances on respiratory health is not limited to those with fragrance sensitivity or pre-existing respiratory conditions. A survey of 1,098 Australians found that one-third of respondents experienced health issues due to scented products, with 17% reporting respiratory troubles. Air fresheners, deodorizers, and cleaning fluids were commonly cited as culprits, as they release dangerous air pollutants that can emit even more harmful pollutants when combined with ozone.
The prevalence of fragrances in our daily lives, from perfumes and air fresheners to scented soaps and detergents, means that it can be challenging to avoid exposure to potential respiratory irritants. However, prevention is key when it comes to managing fragrance sensitivity and reducing the risk of respiratory issues. Individuals with fragrance sensitivity should communicate their concerns to friends, family, and colleagues to create a supportive environment that minimizes the use of scented products.
Additionally, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce their exposure to fragrances by choosing fragrance-free or unscented products for personal care and household cleaning. Being mindful of the potential impact of fragrances on respiratory health and taking appropriate precautions can help reduce the risk of fragrance-related respiratory issues and improve overall respiratory wellbeing.
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Allergic reactions
While many people experience sensitivity to fragrances, true perfume allergies are less common. Fragrance sensitivity occurs when the scent irritates the airways directly, causing symptoms similar to allergies, such as sneezing, coughing, and a runny nose. However, it is not considered a true allergy because the body does not produce immunoglobulin E (IgE) in response to scented products.
On the other hand, a true perfume allergy occurs when the body has an immune system response to an organic protein in the perfume, recognizing it as a foreign substance and releasing an inflammatory reaction to fight it off. Allergic reactions to perfumes can manifest as an itchy red rash that typically goes away quickly after exposure. Some mild symptoms, such as itching without a visible rash, can last for a few weeks.
More severe allergic reactions can occur, although they are rare. These symptoms may require immediate medical attention and can include swelling in the mouth, lips, or tongue, making it difficult to breathe, eat, or talk. Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction characterized by the closure of the airways, can also occur in extreme cases. If you experience any of these severe symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately.
If you suspect you have a perfume allergy or sensitivity, it is important to identify the specific fragrance or ingredient that triggers your symptoms. You can do this by paying attention to when your symptoms flare up and limiting your exposure to strong fragrances. Patch tests and allergen testing by a doctor or allergist can also help identify specific triggers. Once you know your triggers, you can avoid them by checking product labels and choosing fragrance-free or natural, plant-based alternatives.
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Toxic ingredients
Fragrances can trigger certain pathways that stimulate what is called the "vomit centre", according to Dr Randolph Schnitman, an ear, nose, and throat specialist. While the exact mechanism of how our sense of smell works remains unknown, it is clear that we are surrounded by artificial smells. The fragrance industry releases about 800 new fragrances annually, and many of our soaps, shampoos, toothpastes, deodorants, detergents, dryer sheets, and carpet cleaners are pre-scented.
The most toxic ingredient in perfumes, colognes, and aftershaves is often ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. These alcohols are used to infuse the scented ingredients, preserving and stabilising the product's desired scent. However, these alcohols are toxic and may cause symptoms if swallowed in amounts greater than 30 millilitres.
Due to laws protecting fragrance manufacturers' "trade secrets", the vast majority of perfumes sold commercially contain numerous chemicals that are not listed individually on the packaging. Instead, these chemicals are hidden under the word "fragrance", which can encompass a wide range of undisclosed ingredients. This lack of transparency has raised concerns about the potential chemical reactions that perfumes can trigger in the body.
Some of the most common substances that induce fragrance sensitivity include α-pinene (APN), limonene (LIM), linalool (LIL), and eugenol (EUG). Fragrance sensitivity can cause a range of symptoms, such as sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, nausea, dizziness, and skin irritation. In some cases, it can even lead to more severe reactions like migraines, involuntary muscle contractions, or seizures.
If you experience fragrance sensitivity, avoiding offending fragrances is crucial. This may involve choosing unscented personal care products, using fake flowers, and banning cigarettes from indoor spaces. Additionally, it is important to communicate your sensitivities to friends, family, and colleagues to create a supportive environment.
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Nausea and dizziness
According to Dr. Randolph Schnitman, an ear, nose, and throat specialist, fragrances can trigger certain pathways that stimulate the "vomit centre". This can result in feelings of nausea and dizziness.
In a survey of 1,098 Australians, one-third reported experiencing health issues due to scented products, including nausea and dizziness. Fragrance sensitivity can be especially aggravating if you are repeatedly exposed to the irritant, such as in the workplace or at a friend's house.
If you are experiencing nausea and dizziness due to someone's perfume, it may be helpful to speak up and politely inform them about your sensitivities. You can also try to avoid exposure or use over-the-counter medications to treat the symptoms.
It is important to note that there can be other reasons for nausea and dizziness. For example, pregnancy, hormone cycles, or sinus/mouth infections can also cause these symptoms.
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Frequently asked questions
Fragrance sensitivity is a common condition where your airways are irritated by ingredients or chemicals in natural or manufactured scents. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, nausea, dizziness, and migraines.
The best treatment is prevention. Avoid offending fragrances by buying unscented soaps and lotions, using fragrance-free products, and banning cigarettes indoors. If you cannot avoid exposure, you can use over-the-counter medications to treat the symptoms, such as pain relievers or nasal decongestants.
While immediate, irreversible damage to your health caused by one-time use of perfume is rare, the most toxic ingredient in perfumes, colognes, and aftershaves is often ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. If you've ingested a large amount of perfume, it is recommended that you seek medical attention.
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