Q. Is it possible to be allergic to a smell?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Yes, it is possible to be allergic to a smell. There are actually two types of allergies that can be caused by airborne allergens such as odors, fragrances, and smells: respiratory allergies (also known as rhinitis) and contact dermatitis.

Respiratory allergies occur when allergens from the air are inhaled through the nose or mouth. These allergens cause irritation in the nose, which leads to sneezing, nasal congestion, and other symptoms such as coughing and itchy eyes. When a person is exposed to strong odors or fragrances for extended periods of time, their symptoms may worsen and lead to an allergic reaction called pollen-food syndrome. This condition causes itching in various parts of the body after consuming food with a strong odor like spices or fish.

Contact dermatitis occurs when people touch certain airborne substances like perfume or cologne that contain allergy-inducing particles in them. Contact dermatitis typically causes rashes on skin where the allergen was touched including redness, inflammation, itchiness and burning sensation on areas like hands arms chest etc.. Symptoms can range from mild irritation to extreme swelling depending on how sensitive a person's skin is towards particular allergens. In more severe cases blisters may form due to overreaction of immune system towards these allergen particles present in colognes perfumes etc..

There are some treatments available for people who suffer from either respiratory allergies or contact dermatitits caused by smelling odours like immunotherapy(allergy shots) lowering exposure level avoiding scents etc but ultimately prevention should always be better than cure so try your best not exposing yourself too much with strong smells which could trigger your allergy easily .

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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