Petroleum Allergies

A growing portion of the population is allergy to petroleum or products that contain petroleum. Petroleum contains certain chemicals that can cause various symptoms in both adults and children.

Identification

• People that have allergies to petroleum are usually reacting to certain hydrocarbons or petrochemicals, including known carcinogenic chemicals such as benzo-a-pyrene and benzo-b-fluroanthene.

Significance

• Petroleum allergies ares usually classified under a more prominent environmental illness call multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome. People with MCSS are often allergic to many types of chemicals contained in perfumes, hairsprays, household cleaners, soaps and detergents.

Types

• Common petroleum-based products that can cause petroleum allergies include petroleum jelly, baby oil, lighter fluid, motor oil, degreasers and furniture polish, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Effects

• Both children and adults with petroleum allergies can have numerous symptoms from petroleum allergies that are similar to other MCSS complications: migraines, sore throat, asthma, nasal congestion, dizziness, muscle aches and even intestinal disorders.

Prevention/Solution

• Avoiding the offending substances is the best solution for alleviating petroleum allergy symptoms. One should also consider wearing a mask when using lighter fluids, degreasers and other products. Some allergists can also test and treat petroleum allergy symptoms.