Our two cents on being a scent-sensitive space

Have you ever smelled a strong cologne or perfume and gotten a headache? Do you encounter a fragrance and start to feel dizzy or have trouble concentrating? 

If you have a scent sensitivity, also known as an environmental sensitivity, this experience can be quite common. Roughly 30 percent of Canadians experience scent irritation, according to Asthma Canada.  

This is why we ask that clients and support people refrain from wearing any fragrances, such as perfumes, colognes, or body sprays before coming to the clinic. Having a scent-free policy in place means we can remain accessible for clients and staff who experience adverse side effects. For our staff who are scent sensitive, exposure can negatively impact their ability to provide client care. 

Reactions can vary but these are some commonly reported symptoms: 

• Headaches and migraines

• dizziness, light-headedness

• nausea

• fatigue

• weakness

• insomnia

• numbness

• upper respiratory symptoms

• shortness of breath

• skin irritation

• malaise

• confusion

• difficulty with concentration

Before an appointment we send instructions and reminders about fragrances, and if we notice a strong scent when you arrive at the clinic we may ask you to try and wash a fragrance from your skin. Some scented products like body lotions or hair sprays may not be possible to remove, so we ask that you are conscientious when preparing for your appointment. 

We have found that if a client comes to their appointment scent-free but their support person doesn’t, the scent can cling to the client receiving medical care throughout the clinic. If a fragrance can’t be washed off we may ask a client to wait in a separate room and we may ask support people to wait outside the clinic so it won’t negatively impact others. 

The health and well-being of our clients is important to us. Being respectful of those with a scent sensitivity means that we are better set up to provide care to everyone who walks through our doors.  If you require any accommodations during your visit, please let us know. Our client advocate can discuss adjustments to your care before you come in. You can call us at 647-370-3203.