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Toxipedia: A
acaricides
A class of pesticide used specifically to kill mites, ticks and spiders as distinct from insects. The most widely recognized acaricide is Malathion. Introduced in 1950, Malathion is used to combat flies, mosquitoes, animal ticks and flies, body lice and household insects. It is considered to be one of the safest organophosphates.
alcohol
A colorless, volatile, flammable liquid produced by the fermentation of yeast and carbohydrates. Alcohol is used frequently as a solvent and is found in beverages and medicine. Medicinally, alcohol is used internally as a stimulant and hypnotic. It is used externally as an antiseptic. Alcohol is also found in personal care products such as deodorant, cologne, cold cream, sunscreen, shampoo, and shaving cream. When used in excess, alcohol can dry the skin and hair.
allergen
Any substance that causes an allergic reaction in a person who is allergic to that substance. Although almost any thing could be an allergen, the most common are drugs such as antibiotics, foods such as milk, peanuts and strawberries, and inhalants such as pollen, dust, perfume and smoke.
allergy
Excess sensitivity to certain substances, as food, pollen, drugs which are harmless to most persons.People can be sensitive to specific substances without being allergic to them. Allergic reactions generally produce symptoms that affect the whole body. They are caused by exposure to a specific substance called an allergen and result when the allergen binds to a sensitized antibody in the bloodstream of the victim. The antibodies then become activated and the allergy is the body's response to the activated antibodies.
aluminum
a metallic element used extensively in the manufacture of aircraft components, prosthetic devices, and as an ingredient in antiperspirants, antacids, and antiseptics.
aluminum chloride
a type of salt used in antiperspirant products to prevent sweating. It is sometimes used as an antiseptic.Individuals with sensitive skin may find this ingredient irritating.
ammonia
A liquid used in cosmetic hair products such as permanent wave and hair bleaches. This toxic liquid is used in the manufacturing of explosives, refrigerants and detergents. If inhaled, ammonia vapors can irritate the eyes and mucous membranes.
amoebae
Any of a large genus (Amoeba) of naked rhizopod protozoans with lobed and never anastomosing pseudopodia, without permanent organelles or supporting structures, and of wide distribution in fresh and salt water and moist terrestrial environments;broadly : a naked rhizopod or other amoeboid protozoan
artificial fragrance
Though most artificial fragrances have minimal environmental impact, they are known to bring about asthma attacks in some asthma sufferers and allergic reactions such as rashes, headaches, respiratory problems and watery eyes in those with fragrance allergies.
asthma
A lung disorder causing occasional attacks of wheezing and shortness of breath. Usually , no cause can be demonstrated for asthma, however asthma attacks are sometimes brought about by allergic reactions to mold, dust or dander. During an attack, bronchial tree muscles tighten and the lining of air passages swell, causing a reduction of airflow which produces a wheezing sound. Tobacco smoke, cold air, stress, air pollutants, food allergies and respiratory infections can all trigger asthma attacks.
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