Wool Allergy: What Allergic Individuals Need to Know

Wool sweaters can cause a variety of problems for allergic individuals.In most parts of the country, fall weather is settling in and many people are beginning to shake out their down comforters, make hot chocolate, and re-stock dresser drawers with favorite wool sweaters. While these three rituals can mean several things to allergy sufferers, today we’re going to explore wool allergies and wool allergy symptoms.

Although an actual allergy to wool itself is rare, there are a few ways in which wool can affect those with allergies. Lanolin is a naturally occurring substance that helps sheep shed water from their coats, and many individuals who think they are allergic to wool are actually allergic to this ‘wool wax.’ Lanolin is also often used in creams and lotions, especially natural ones, and can cause allergic reactions through this type of exposure as well.

In addition to lanolin allergies, wool can trigger allergies by causing exposure to cat dander. In a 2007 article, Seniors and Asthma, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) says, ‘A recent study at the University of Sydney found people who wore wool sweaters were exposed to more than 10 times the amount of cat dander than individuals wearing no upper body clothing. People who wore freshly washed T-shirts were exposed to the least amount of cat dander.’ Of course, wool can also act as a carrier for dust mite allergen and other allergens, especially if sweaters are washed infrequently.

Another way that wool causes problems for allergic individuals is by irritating sensitive skin and exacerbating eczema. Indeed, in Tips to Remember: Allergic Skin Conditions, the AAAAI lists wool as a contact irritant that can trigger eczema. This type of contact irritation could be alleviated by wearing another layer beneath the wool so that the wool doesn’t come into contact with the skin.

Anyone out there have any wool sensitivity stories or tips to share?

One thought on “Wool Allergy: What Allergic Individuals Need to Know

  1. Shoe March 14, 2011 / 8:02 pm

    I seem to be more allergic to certain kinds of wool, but I don't know which is which. Quite frustrating. For example, just today, I accidentally learned that I am not allergic to merino wool. Wish I had known that before!

    Carpet wool is particularly a problem for me, so I assume there is a common type of wool used for them. I can feel a wool carpet start to make me itch if I sit on one, even through jeans.

    And lanolin was a nightmare when I tried to use it one time when I first began to nurse my first baby now a teen and it was suggested by the doctor as a way to help my [dry sensitive areas].

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