Chloe Adams
Candles are a popular way to decorate and create a cosy atmosphere, especially during the holidays. However, for people with asthma, scented candles can pose a risk. The fragrances and chemicals released by scented candles can trigger asthma attacks and cause respiratory issues, especially in small living spaces. While some sources suggest that soy, beeswax, or coconut candles are better alternatives, it is generally recommended that individuals with asthma avoid scented candles altogether and opt for unscented candles or other lighting options to reduce the risk of asthma attacks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candles bad for asthma | Yes, scented candles can trigger asthma attacks in asthmatics |
| Safe alternatives | Unscented candles, battery-operated flameless candles, beeswax candles |
| Candles to avoid | Synthetic and petroleum-based candles, candles with strong fragrances |
| Health effects | Increased asthma symptoms, lung damage, central nervous system damage, brain damage |
| Prevalence of adverse effects | Higher in Saudi Arabia (24.8%) compared to the US (22.3%), Australia (20.3%), the UK (13.9%), and Sweden (17.9%) |
| Asthma triggers | Ultrafine particles and gases produced by burning candles, fragrance chemicals |
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What You'll Learn
Scented candles can trigger asthma attacks
Scented candles are a common decorative item, especially during the holidays. However, for people with asthma, they can pose a significant health risk. The strong fragrances used in scented candles can trigger asthma attacks and cause various adverse health effects.
The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) recommends that individuals with asthma avoid scented candles, air fresheners, and similar products. This is because the fragrances in these products can irritate the respiratory system and lead to increased asthma symptoms. Studies have shown that individuals with asthma and chemical sensitivity are more susceptible to adverse effects from scented products. For example, a study on workers in California found that 3.8% of confirmed work-related asthma cases during the observed period were linked to exposure to fragranced products.
Furthermore, burning scented candles can contribute to indoor air pollution. Candles can emit harmful substances such as benzene and toluene, which are dangerous pollutants. These pollutants can not only trigger asthma attacks but also damage the brain, lungs, and central nervous system. The smoke and ultrafine particles produced by burning candles can cause irritation and inflammation in the body, even in young individuals with mild asthma.
To reduce the risk of asthma attacks, asthmatics should opt for unscented or battery-operated flameless candles. While the impact of scented candles on asthma is well-established, it is important to note that individual sensitivity can vary. Some individuals with asthma may be more affected by scented candles than others. Therefore, it is crucial for people with asthma to be mindful of their triggers and take the necessary precautions to manage their symptoms effectively.
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Candles emit harmful substances like benzene and toluene
Burning candles can emit harmful substances, including benzene and toluene. These compounds are released into the air when candles are burned, and they can have adverse effects on human health.
Benzene is a known carcinogen, increasing the risk of leukaemia and other blood cancers. While significant exposure to benzene typically occurs through smoking, burning candles can also release small amounts of this toxic chemical. Similarly, toluene is commonly used in paint thinners and adhesives, and exposure to it can cause eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation, as well as headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety.
The release of these chemicals is a concern, especially for individuals with asthma. The strong fragrances and scents in scented candles can trigger asthma attacks. In addition to benzene and toluene, burning candles can also release other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates, which have been linked to various health issues. For example, exposure to these chemicals has been associated with headaches, shortness of breath, and coughing.
To minimise the risk of exposure to these harmful substances, it is recommended to opt for higher-quality candles made from natural materials such as beeswax or soy wax. These candles burn slower and produce less soot and toxic chemicals. Additionally, ensuring proper ventilation when burning candles can help reduce the concentration of these pollutants in the air.
While candles can emit harmful substances, it is important to note that their impact on health may be minimal when used occasionally in well-ventilated spaces. However, for individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions, it is advisable to avoid scented candles and opt for unscented or battery-operated flameless candles instead.
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Candles contribute to indoor air pollution
Candles are a common decorative item, especially during the holidays. However, they can contribute to indoor air pollution and have negative effects on respiratory health, particularly for individuals with asthma.
Burning candles emit ultrafine particles and gases, which can be detrimental to health. A study by Aarhus University specifically examined the impact of candle fumes on young individuals with mild asthma and found that inadequate ventilation during candle burning can lead to discomfort and adverse effects. The study highlights the importance of prioritising a healthy indoor climate, even during cosy winter months when ventilation may be reduced.
The scented candles, in particular, can be problematic. They release chemicals, including fragrant chemicals mostly derived from petroleum and animal sources, as well as essential oils from trees, shrubs, and flowers. These fragrances can trigger asthma attacks and may also have immediate or long-term health effects on the brain, lungs, and central nervous system. A study on workers in California found that 3.8% of confirmed work-related asthma cases between 1993 and 2012 were linked to exposure to fragranced products.
Additionally, the burning of scented candles can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), phthalates, and particulate matter (PM), which have been associated with adverse respiratory symptoms such as cough and shortness of breath. A study on university students in Saudi Arabia found that 16.7% of respondents who used scented candles experienced these respiratory symptoms.
To minimise the impact of candles on indoor air quality and respiratory health, it is recommended to use unscented candles or opt for battery-powered flameless candles, especially if individuals with asthma are present. Adequate ventilation during candle burning is also crucial to prevent the buildup of harmful particles and gases.
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Asthma prevalence is higher in Europe than Asia
Scented candles can trigger asthma attacks and flare-ups. They emit harmful substances, such as benzene and toluene, which are dangerous pollutants. These pollutants can also damage the brain, lungs, and central nervous system. While some sources claim that the impact of candles on asthma is negligible, especially if they are unscented, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) suggests avoiding scented candles if you or someone you live with has asthma.
Regarding asthma prevalence, it is important to note that there are variations within and between countries and regions. The Global Asthma Report 2022 provides some insights into these variations. The report found that Asian and Eastern European centers had slightly higher prevalence rates than Mexican and South American centers. The European reported asthma prevalence was 5.86%, with the lowest rate reported in Serbia (3.05%) and the highest in the UK (10.07%). In contrast, Asia had the lowest reported asthma prevalence of any continental region at 3.44%, with the lowest country-specific prevalence in Bangladesh (1.43%).
Several factors may contribute to the higher asthma prevalence in Europe compared to Asia. One factor could be the level of economic development. More developed countries tend to have higher asthma prevalence due to increased urbanization, westernized lifestyles, higher obesity rates, and pollution. This could partly explain the difference between Europe and Asia, as Europe generally has more developed countries.
Additionally, cultural and environmental factors play a role. For example, within Asia, there are increasing asthma rates in less developed countries. Factors such as smoking, urbanization, population growth, seafood ingestion, and moist air leading to mold and mildew formation have been proposed as mechanisms for these trends. On the other hand, the lower asthma prevalence rates in Asia are thought to be related more to environmental and lifestyle factors than genetic differences.
Furthermore, diagnostic and reporting procedures can also impact the reported prevalence rates. A study in Vietnam found that while many school children presented with asthma symptoms, only a small percentage had received an official asthma diagnosis. Language barriers and challenges in assessing spirometry measurements may contribute to these discrepancies between symptoms and diagnoses.
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Burning candles and fumes from cooking are harmful to asthmatics
Burning candles and cooking fumes can be harmful to asthmatics, even those with mild asthma. A study by Aarhus University found that indoor air pollution caused by these fumes can cause irritation and inflammation in the body. The ultrafine particles and gases produced during cooking and candle burning can be detrimental to health, and the impact is more significant when there is inadequate ventilation.
Scented candles, in particular, can trigger asthma attacks due to the release of fragrant chemicals. These chemicals include harmful substances like benzene and toluene, which are dangerous pollutants that can damage the brain, lungs, and central nervous system. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) recommend that asthmatics avoid scented candles, air fresheners, and other strongly fragranced products.
The prevalence of respiratory symptoms like cough and shortness of breath is higher among individuals exposed to scented candles, according to a study on young university students in Saudi Arabia. This study also found that adverse non-respiratory symptoms like headaches were more common in this group. While the cause-and-effect relationship requires further investigation, the findings suggest that burning scented candles may contribute to these health issues.
To reduce the risk of asthma flare-ups, asthmatics can opt for unscented or battery-operated flameless candles. Proper ventilation during cooking and candle burning is also crucial to minimising the concentration of harmful particles and gases in the air.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, candles can be bad for asthma. Scented candles, in particular, are known to trigger asthma attacks. The emission of VOCs, phthalates, and PM from burning scented candles can cause respiratory-related symptoms like cough and shortness of breath.
Soy candles are a good alternative to oil-based candles as they burn cleaner and slower and are non-toxic. Beeswax candles are another option as they burn very cleanly and are totally natural if nothing is added to them.
Increasing ventilation in the room where candles are lit can help decrease the amount of smoke. Using battery-powered candle lights is another way to avoid smoke and burning chemicals while still enjoying the lighting that candles create.
