Which types of household products are most likely to cause chemical sensitivities?
–John Morgan, Somerville, MA Household products trigger chemical sensitivities in hundreds of thousands of Americans every year, yet few people make the connection between their skin rash or sneezing and the bottles and cans stored under their kitchen sink or in the broom closet. Common reactions to everyday household cleansers and other substances include migraine headaches, asthma and sinusitis, but more serious cardiovascular, neurological and autoimmune diseases may also result from prolonged use or lack of adequate ventilation in areas where these chemicals are being applied. Early warning signs are burning and irritation of the sinuses, nose or throat–usually not with a fever–and itching or sneezing, says Dr. Grace Ziem, a public health physician specializing in chemical injuries. Prevention is the key. And removing toxic compounds from your home is the strategy. You can begin under the kitchen sink by replacing traditional choices with products your grandmother bought, says S
