Strong Odors and Asthma
Do certain fragrances and strong odors seem to make your asthma worse? If so, you’re not alone. For some people, strong odors from perfumes, household or industrial cleaners, air fresheners, and nail polishes and removers can trigger asthma symptoms.
Avoiding Common Odors Is Not Easy
Many odors and fragrances are so commonplace that we encounter them almost every day, but the more of them you can identify as triggers for your asthma, the easier they’ll be to manage. Be sure to take note of the problematic odors and inform your doctor if you experience any worsening asthma symptoms, such as shortness of breath or wheezing.
Did you know?
41% of people with asthma report health problems from air fresheners or deodorizers.
Odor Offenders
Numerous everyday household and workplace items include chemicals with odors that may trigger symptoms in asthma sufferers. This list includes, but is not limited to:
Household Odors:
- Air fresheners
- Chlorine and bleach
- Cleaning products
- Colognes and perfumes
- Deodorants
- Furniture polish
- Nail polish and remover
- Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces
Workplace Odors:
- Adhesives
- Carpet and flooring materials
- Gasoline
- Insulation
- Paint and paint thinner
- Pesticides
- Varnishes
Tips for Managing Strong Odors & Asthma
Avoid secondhand smoke of any kind
Consider using cleaning and personal care products that are odor and fragrance free
Ask friends and family to limit their use of perfumes
Make sure your home and workplace are well ventilated
