Is Your Rash or Headache a Chemical Allergy? What to Watch For
Up to 33% of the population may suffer from chemical allergies, but the reactions don’t always look as dramatic as what you see in commercials. Sometimes they’re more subtle, like a rash that won’t quit, brain fog after using certain products, or migraines that seem to appear after breathing in strong scents.
Review our guide below to see if your body may be reacting to everyday chemicals and how to spot the symptoms. And be sure to see Srinagesh Paluvoi, MD, FAAP, FACAAI, and the team at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates in Lansdowne and Gainesville, Virginia, for allergy testing and symptom relief.
Symptoms of a chemical allergy
Being exposed to chemicals may result in the following symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Rash or hives
- Weakness
- Mood changes
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Brain fog
- Gastrointestinal (GI) concerns
- Respiratory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Skin redness
- Blisters
- Burning or itching skin
- Swelling
- Difficulty breathing or throat tightness
- Fast heart rate
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Chest pain
- Nausea
Keep in mind that some of these symptoms may also be linked to chronic diseases, illnesses, eczema, sinusitis, hormone imbalances, food allergies, or other types of allergies. Dr. Paluvoi helps pinpoint the cause and can help relieve your unpleasant symptoms.
Chemicals that may cause an allergic reaction
Products and substances that can cause allergic reactions include:
- Foods with additives or preservatives
- Caffeine
- Paint and paint thinners
- Furniture or carpet odors
- Cigarettes and cigars
- Scented cosmetic products
- Perfumes or colognes
- Fuel or exhaust
- Herbicides and pesticides
- Mobile telecommunication devices
- Cleaning products
- Air fresheners
- Deodorants
- Nail polishes and polish removers
- Tar or asphalt pavement
- Diesel and gasoline
- Lacquers and varnishes
- Ink
- Products containing formaldehyde
- Sunscreens
Having anxiety or even having a strong sense of smell can also make you feel more sensitive to chemicals.
I suspect a chemical allergy. What should I do?
If you have any of the symptoms above and suspect it’s caused by chemical exposure, turn to Allergy & Asthma Affiliates. During your appointment, Dr. Paluvoi discusses your symptoms, reviews your medical history, and tests for allergies and asthma to learn which potential allergens are causing reactions.
Dr. Paluvoi helps narrow down possible triggers by reviewing the products you’re exposed to regularly. Then, he makes recommendations to minimize your exposure to specific chemicals. You might need to avoid them entirely or use protective clothing during exposure.
Depending on your diagnosis, you might take oral medications or use medicated creams, inhalers, allergy shots, sprays, an EpiPen®, or other treatments to ease symptoms.
Finally, Dr. Paluvoi follows up to ensure an effective and long-lasting outcome.
Other helpful tips
To minimize chemical exposure, avoid polluted air and chemical-containing products when possible, steer clear of smoking, and choose foods and drinks that are free from chemical additives.
Dr. Paluvoi can help you create a treatment plan that maximizes your health. Contact us today at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates by calling our office or booking an appointment online, especially if you need to find out if your rash or headache is caused by a chemical allergy.
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