With promises of bacterial and germ removal and the ability to set the scene with a few sprays of our favorite scent, air fresheners have sky rocketed in popularity both inside and outside the home. Although many of the popular brands we see advertised are effective at masking unwanted scents or as homeopathic aromatherapy, the quality of the air is actually compromised once the freshener has been sprayed. In some instances, home fragrance products and air fresheners can even result in and cause respiratory problems such as asthma.
Many, if not all, of these air freshener products contain ingredients that tend to aggravate the respiratory system. These chemicals, or volatile organic compounds (VOC), include but are not limited to: formaldehyde, petroleum, distillates, limonene, esters and alcohols. With such harsh chemicals being the fundamental ingredients to these types of products and air fresheners, you are not only jeopardizing your respiratory system but are also increasing the risk of asthma for children around you. Studies have also shown that high concentrations of VOCs can trigger eye irritation, headaches, dizziness, and even memory impairment.
Getting Fresh Air without the Air Freshener
The best way to prevent such irritation altogether is to completely eliminate the use of air freshener products. Opening windows and creating a cross breeze throughout your home is a quick, natural, and easy way to get rid of nasty smells. Running fans and high-powered air conditioning units also help with the ventilation of the room, keeping unwanted scents to a minimum.
Another easy way to decrease the need for air fresheners is by resolving the smelly issue right away. For instance, if you are cleaning out your refrigerator and getting rid of old moldy food, it may make sense to take the trash directly to the trash bins outside. This decreases the amount of time that the odors have to fester.
Qvar Asthma Inhaler
Complete elimination of air fresheners is a hard request to ask of anyone. So, in the event that you do give in to temptation, remember to use the freshener in moderation. For many of the products out there, a few sprays will do the trick. Also, ventilating the rooms after spraying helps dilute the harsh chemicals. If you do end up having one of the adverse reactions mentioned above or your asthma symptoms worsen, please consult with your doctor. There are medications, such as Qvar, that are created specifically to reduce asthmatic symptoms and prevent asthma attacks altogether.
When using air fresheners, is important to be aware of the risks involved. By keeping your use down to a minimum and incorporating other products, such as candles or incense, that allow you to keep your favorite scents minus the VOCs within your home, you can avoid this rising epidemic of the onset of asthma by air fresheners.
