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This blog is another opportunity to feel grateful. Thank you, Universe, for continuing to bless me with recovery and health.
It is evolutionary that an animal’s sense of smell is its critical survival tool. Even for us, this sense plays a crucial role in proving its importance.
And therefore, spritzing on my signature scent, was a part of personal expression, but hardly did I know!!
This blog post talks about the relationship between my rare neurological condition and sensitivity to fragrance.
In 2016, I was diagnosed with a rare disease called Isaacs’ Syndrome. Isaacs’ is a neuromuscular health condition that stems from muscle hyperactivity. In the process, I also discovered that I had Lyme disease. Lyme is a bacterial illness that gets transmitted through ticks.
Glaucoma also accompanied me. Glaucoma is an eye-related disease that damages the optic nerves. And Membranous Glomerulonephritis is a progressive kidney disease. I faced tremendous issues with my gut, stomach acid, and digestive enzymes. During my journey, I also developed Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Diabetes, Frozen Shoulder, Eczema, and Blood Pressure.
Personal experience with Isaacs Syndrome
To begin with, I am trying to sleep, and suddenly there goes tic, tic. It went unrested as the frequency was at least once every 30 seconds and it went on for hours together. Throughout my body, the muscles rippled like something was moving under my skin. It involved different muscles and slowly, became more noticeable. It tensed my muscles, specifically the calf or bicep area made me miserable. The movements were involuntary.
Imagine waking up every day to intense muscle cramps. It left me feeling helpless with constant pain. For long the excruciating pain left me wondering!
I slowly developed progressive functional problems. Even walking became difficult. I had immense weakness and pain while sitting, climbing stairs, stiffness, and walking. I had problems with my central nervous system.
Isaacs syndrome is a rare disorder that causes cramps, body stiffness, and twitching. It is an autoimmune disease with a list of other symptoms like fatigue, and weakness. Isaacs is also associated with cancer.
I had other associated symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and allergic reactions. Also, respiratory issues, nasal congestion sensitivity to noise, and strong smell.
You might guess that these symptoms altered the course of my life irrevocably. The transition was torturous, to say the least. There were countless challenges in managing these symptoms. The key challenge was the lack of proper research and knowledge. It was very difficult to understand my emotional responses.
Developing sensitivity to perfumes
Until recently even I was unaware that my perfume was typically a chemical mixture. It could have hidden harmful effects on my neurological state.
Instead of the details of my perfume what mattered was the experience it evoked. The make, longevity of the aromatic compounds, its mood-lifting quality were key before any purchase.
We are well-versed in the ill effects of inhaling harmful substances from the environment such as pollution etc. but how many of us ever thought twice before using our sweet-smelling colognes and perfumes?
Do they have harmful chemicals that might be toxic and lead to health problems?
It’s not a hidden fact anymore that perfumes carry many chemicals (listed and unlisted on the label). Prolonged exposure to them could have cumulative effects.
As the symptoms persisted, I sought medical advice and discovered to be fragrance-sensitive.
It is the condition when your eyes and airways get irritated by the use of chemicals or other ingredients. This condition differs from true allergy. It doesn’t involve a whole-body immune response instead suggests that some component of the fragrance is irritating to your airways and eyes.
The condition was triggered by a wide variety of artificial chemicals in my perfume.
The Link Between Perfumes and Neurological Health
Perfumes and neurological health are interlaced.
Our nervous system gets affected when toxic chemicals enter our body. They enter through the skin and permeate the olfactory before reaching our lungs. They eventually find their way to the limbic section of the brain. That’s how the chemicals start to cause all sorts of neurological changes. They affect our blood pressure, mood instability, stress levels, etc.
Many of the causes and symptoms are still unknown.
The effect may be subtle, and we might not even recognize it. The effect does not get noticed until too much damage is done due to altering of the brain’s biochemistry.
Studies reveal the presence of many toxic chemicals in our perfumes. The list includes acetaldehyde, musk ketone, and methylene chloride. Also, styrene, benzaldehyde, phthalates, Benzyl Acetate, etc.
Fragrance compounds may lead to certain immediate changes in blood pressure, pulse rate, and brain functions. They also play a role in triggering migraine episodes, head pain, and dizziness. Also, asthma, cognitive-related, and central nervous problems.
While some scents bring the happiness factor but others might activate unexpected reactions.
Why was using perfumes a no-no for my rare neurological condition?
I constantly complained of fatigue, dizziness, headaches, occasional breathing issues, and fasciculations.
The doctors believed that any potential link that had the magnitude to affect the central nervous system should be strictly thrown out of the window.
Also, these chemicals had the potential to interrupt clinical evaluations conducted from time to time.
Managing Perfume Sensitivity for My Neurological Health
Individuals with Neurological problems like Isaacs syndrome may experience sensitivity to various stimuli, including fragrances.
In such cases, it is better to avoid heavily scented products and manage perfume sensitivity. Be mindful in choosing a safer product that is tested and feels comfortable is always better. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.
It is better to create a chemical-fragrance-free environment to promote well-being. Here are practical tips that minimized my exposure to strong perfumes:
1) Used perfumes once in a while as too much use could be an overwhelming experience!
2) I used a natural choice of perfume that is plant-based and promised not to use harsh chemicals.
3) Switched to organic fragrances made with certified ingredients.
4) I stopped using air fresheners and scented candles. I preferred to open windows and made use of fans to circulate fresh air.
5) I refrained from wearing the same perfume every day.
6) I researched before opting as ‘Natural’ does not essentially mean ‘Secured.’
7) Encouraged my family members to be mindful of fragranced products.
My idea is not to discourage readers but instead to be aware and mindful of their choices.
Isn’t it unfortunate that perfume manufacturers are not legally bound to list all their ingredients on the product label? Therefore, isn’t it comparatively healthier to switch to safer brands that promise to use health-safety parameters?
To Conclude
Neuro-health is an important aspect of overall well-being.
Our brain is responsible and is the command centre for the body. By prioritizing neuro-health, we can enhance our quality of life and reduce the risks of neurological disorders.
Identifying and managing triggers is crucial for people with neurological disorders. It has immense significance in our lives. It helps doctors tailor treatments ensuring that the right and timely care is given. Also, for people with neurological disorders, certain triggers can worsen symptoms. For E.g. perfumes could aggravate allergic reactions, and headaches, and increase sensitivity.
Neurological health is important and our daily choices can impact it. It is crucial to be mindful of our perfumes. It is better to create a chemical-fragrance-free environment to promote well-being.
DISCLAIMER
The views expressed above in this article are the author’s own and do not represent any kind of medical advice.
Reference
Why Perfumes Are Toxic: The Hidden Danger of Perfumes 2023 (thewellnesswatchdog.com)
Why Go Fragrance Free? – Invisible Disabilities® Association
How Fragrances Affect Your Nervous System – Energy Matters LLC – Rose Boghos
