Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and Cleaning Chemicals
Many people have what’s known as multiple chemical sensitivity, usually shortened to MCS, which is an ultra sensitivity to chemicals like solvents, VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds), perfumes, gasoline, diesel, cigarette smoke, and basically chemicals in general. This condition is also called “idiopathic environmental intolerance,” which actually means that it is not known how or why the chemicals affect these people as they do.
However, what is known is that for these people, exposure to even low levels of these types of chemicals can result in a severe allergy-like reaction. Symptoms can include any of the following in any combination: fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, congestion, sneezing, itching, chest pain, sore throat, breathing problems, muscle stiffness or pain, diarrhea, skin rash, confusion, trouble concentrating, bloating, memory problems and mood changes.
So what can trigger an attack of MCS? Many things. The triggers can be as different for people as the symptoms. Some attacks are set off by cigarette smoke, new carpeting, auto exhaust, chlorine, incense, candles, reed diffusers, air fresheners, and even chemicals used for house cleaning. Some of these things are hard to avoid, but some can be eliminated almost completely. Sufferers can generally stay out of the vicinity of cigarette smoke, but sometimes it is difficult to avoid auto exhaust or carpeting in the workplace, for example. However, one place it can be effectively eliminated is in the chemicals used for house cleaning. So-called “green cleaning” is on the rise in popularity; even seemingly healthy people are trying to avoid unnecessary chemicals in their homes. There are several different companies that are now making eco-friendly cleaners or you could do what many others do and hire a house cleaning service that uses only eco-friendly cleaners.
If you hire a high quality maid service that uses eco-friendly cleaners, not only will you be able to have a clean home with a minimum of effort, but you will be able to feel secure that there are no residual chemicals in your home to bring on an attack of MCS. In addition, you will be able to entertain without fear of causing any ill effects to your family and friends.
And, of course, the benefits of green cleaning goes beyond your and your friends’ and family members’ health: using healthy natural cleaners are better for everyone’s health, and better for the environment, i.e. the health of the earth. Toxic cleaners are harmful to everyone and everything it touches.
Do yourself a favor and get a, eco-friendly cleaning service and let them keep your house healthy and natural.
