First, I must state that I believe that everyone is chemically sensitive; yet, some react more severely than others. That, I suppose, has something to do with the immune system's health. Keep in mind that I am not a doctor, but I used food as medicine to treat myself my allergies and chemical sensitivities. Everything I'll tell you is based on my personal experience. On my website, you may read my narrative.
First and foremost, I must emphasize that extreme multiple chemical sensitivity is a transient state. I always assumed it would be permanent and that my life would be a terrible misery until I learned it might be different. I used to believe that allergies were endless, but I'm here to tell you that they're not.
In the meanwhile, there are coping mechanisms.
Get a decent air purifier for your house, preferably one that uses coconut shell carbon. Standard carbon is derived from petroleum and is known to exacerbate chemical sensitivity. You may purchase one for your automobile as well. Avoid driving during rush hour and keep a safe distance from other cars' tailpipes.
Toxins should be removed from your house. Household cleaners and laundry detergents are examples of products that are easy to regulate. Vinegar, soap, or hydrogen peroxide can all be used. Don't forget to polish your furniture as well. Aerosol sprays that evaporate the solution should be avoided.
Be cautious with new items you bring into your home. With my new washing machine, I had an odd experience. I started feeling dizzy whenever I used it, and I could smell motor oil. I noticed that the motor's heat caused the oils and polymers utilized in the interior parts to outgas. I had to place my air purifier right next to it to soak up the fumes, or I'd be dizzy by the evening.
Apply natural products to your skin. Cosmetics, shampoos, deodorants, lotions, sanitary napkins, and soap, to name a few. Get toilet paper, tissues, and paper towels that aren't bleached. Chemicals and pesticide residues may be present in traditional sanitary napkins and tampons. For everything, there are alternatives.
Organize your garage. If your garage is connected to your home, the fumes from all the hazardous goods stored there, including your car's fuels, plastics, and glues, will penetrate your home!
Remodeling is a good idea if you have the resources. Natural carpets and cushioning are required. Carpets and padding made of traditional materials emit gases indefinitely. There are no stain-resistant synthetic rugs... Cotton and wool are superior. (If you can't renovate, and even if you can, get an air purifier.)
Plants are a great addition to any home. They aid in the filtration of indoor air pollutants—Ivy, Peacelilly, Corn plant, Chinese Evergreen, and so forth.
Buy new furniture with chemically treated textiles and formaldehyde in the particleboard, as well as hazardous varnishes and stains, with caution. Look for items that have been previously used or that you can complete yourself. Purchase non-toxic paints and, even then, leave home until it is scorched. There are environmental building centers where you may get all of your home's alternative paint, varnish, and adhesive supplies.
Make sure the insulation you use for your roof or walls is formaldehyde-free.
To remove the chemicals from your shower, install filters. You don't want to inhale or absorb them via your skin when they evaporate in your shower. You should also filter your drinking water.
Is your heating system electric or gas? Allergies to natural gas are possible.
Pesticides should not be used indoors or outdoors, and lawn chemicals should be avoided. I read somewhere that women with breast cancer are more likely to live in homes that use yard pesticides. Why would you take such a risk? There are safer options available.
Gas lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and other outdoor power equipment pollute the environment more than automobiles. Use a push mower, electric weed whackers, and your hands to get the job done. It's a good workout.
Avoid shopping malls filled with chemical-laden clothing, hazardous construction materials, cleaners, and perfume shops. Perfume is a significant culprit. Tell your relatives and friends to take it off when they visit you if you don't want to wear it. It's best not to be in a confined place. All new garments should be washed and rinsed with vinegar in the water.
Avoid using standard paints, carpets, and glues in new or recently refurbished buildings. In older structures, they still outgas, although not as much.
Did you know that chemical treatments are used to maintain wrinkle-free linens and clothes appearing that way? Some of those substances make falling asleep more difficult. Cotton is one of the most extensively pesticide-sprayed crops, so buy organic if possible.
You now know that you can regulate chemicals in your surroundings in a variety of ways. It may feel daunting at first, so take it one step at a time. You will have built a safer house before you realize it.
Remember that if you restore your immune system with diet, these sensitivities and allergies will only last a short time.
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