Ammonia Allergies: Symptoms, Causes & Relief

Ammonia is a chemical irritant that gives off a strong odor. The liquid form of ammonia is used in household cleaners, causing inhalant and contact allergies in people with chemical sensitivities.

Exposure

• Inhalant allergies to ammonia occur when breathing in the fumes through the eyes, nose or mouth. Contact dermatitis reactions occur through skin exposure.

Inhalant Symptoms

• Ammonia causes symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and asthma such as runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, wheezing, shortness of breath and coughing.

Skin Reactions

• Skin reactions to ammonia include dry skin resulting from eczema, redness, hives, itching, swelling and blisters. Contact dermatitis occurs at the site of exposure and may spread.

Prevention/Solution

• Ammonia and associated chemical sensitivities are avoidable by eliminating contact with the allergen through use of gloves, masks and protective glasses and by substituting natural cleaners for ammonia.

Treatment

• Ammonia inhalant symptoms are reduced through oral antihistamines and inhalers. Skin allergies are treated with topical antihistamine ointments and corticosteroid creams to decrease itching and swelling.