I am extremely sensitive to scents. This can make life challenging at times. Exposure to chemical (and some natural) scents can cause a chain reaction that ends up with me feeling ill for hours or days. On some occasions exposures have resulted in my being rushed to the Emergency Room to receive treatment for Anaphylaxis.
Most clients, friends and family are careful to not expose me to scents but every so often I have to deal with the after-effects of a scent someone is wearing.
A few weeks ago I was hugged by someone wearing a scent that I am allergic to. By the time I realized they were wearing the substance it was too late. The scent was in my hair, on my clothing, and the substance was on my face and hands.
I knew I had to get home to shower, as that was the only way I could get rid of the scent. The 30 minute drive home was a challenge. My asthma flared up and I was concerned that I may end up in hospital. I got home, showered, then threw the clothes I was wearing in the washer. Even with those measures taken I wasn't myself for several days.
After that event I was reminded of something a very kind Soul did when I ran into them a few months ago. I was delighted to see them and went in for a hug. Thankfully, they backed away and said, "I'm wearing scent." Their quick thinking saved me from an exposure. I was so grateful that I could have, well, hugged them....... but didn't.
So, if you see me somewhere and you're wearing scents.... don't let me hug you. I will be eternally grateful.
Most clients, friends and family are careful to not expose me to scents but every so often I have to deal with the after-effects of a scent someone is wearing.
A few weeks ago I was hugged by someone wearing a scent that I am allergic to. By the time I realized they were wearing the substance it was too late. The scent was in my hair, on my clothing, and the substance was on my face and hands.
I knew I had to get home to shower, as that was the only way I could get rid of the scent. The 30 minute drive home was a challenge. My asthma flared up and I was concerned that I may end up in hospital. I got home, showered, then threw the clothes I was wearing in the washer. Even with those measures taken I wasn't myself for several days.
After that event I was reminded of something a very kind Soul did when I ran into them a few months ago. I was delighted to see them and went in for a hug. Thankfully, they backed away and said, "I'm wearing scent." Their quick thinking saved me from an exposure. I was so grateful that I could have, well, hugged them....... but didn't.
So, if you see me somewhere and you're wearing scents.... don't let me hug you. I will be eternally grateful.
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