newspaper allergy - Allergies Message Board

lhacker · 07-20-2003, 10:51 AM

Last January I began having a problem with severe congestion. only in my home. Going outside brought immediate relief. Allergist found I was moderately allergic to dust mites, zero on pollens, molds, mildew, animal dander, woods, etc. Still the beathing problem continued. In mid June I began suspecting the newspaper. Always had the TV log by my recliner. it was a hot spot as was the dining room where I let 2 or 3 days of newspapers accumulate before trashing. Began reading paper on patio and suddenly began having attacks when bent over paper while outside. Have cancelled my subscriptions to two papers and I miss them, But, I can breath. I asked the local paper for EPA tech sheets on their paper, ink and press fountain solution.They refused! I suspect the fountain solution - it is very volatile, alcohol base, acidic and fumes are absorbed by the porous paper then gas for days.
Am still having problems visiting in some clients offices and homes where newspapers are present.
Anyone have any experience with this?
Can I be de-sensatized?

AngelaA · 07-20-2003, 02:42 PM

Hi,

I would suspect your sensitivity is to formaldehyde which is used in most newpaper inks. A few magazines will use soy based inks, but not many. I've had sensitivity to the newspaper at times, then other times it seems they must use less in the ink or something because I am able to read the paper sometimes and not be bothered. I've noticed the formaldehyde also seems to be used in some screen print t-shirts and have been unable to wear some of those because the smell would give me a headache.

Hope this helps.