Can Working with Felt and Fabric Trigger Allergies? (48F Mother)
My mother, a 48-year-old woman (approximately 5’6” to 5’7” tall), has been running her own business for nearly 12 years, specializing in the production of handmade items using materials such as felt, fabric, and jute. Throughout this time, she has successfully filled thousands of orders. However, she has been suffering from debilitating symptoms that include severe headaches, overwhelming nausea often leading to vomiting, and persistent bladder issues that can last for up to five days. These symptoms are so intense that they hinder her ability to walk and often leave her confined to bed, battling excruciating pain. Despite her struggles, she finds that those around her tend to dismiss her condition. When she seeks medical attention, the wait can stretch over eight hours, which is common in Canada, yet she has consistently returned home without any relief. A few years ago, she underwent an MRI, which yielded no significant findings, leaving her in a state of uncertainty regarding the source of her suffering. After taking an extended break from her craft, she noticed an improvement in her condition, although occasional migraines persisted. Now, as she has resumed her routine of cutting and sewing for hours each day, the debilitating symptoms have returned, resembling the pain she experienced before her hiatus. Could she be experiencing an allergy or sensitivity related to working with felt or fabric? While cutting the felt releases tiny microfibers into the air, it's difficult for me to comprehend how this could lead to such severe discomfort. How can exposure to these fibers result in hours spent in the bathroom with debilitating headaches and extreme nausea? I am reaching out for any insights, as we have exhausted our options, and it seems that the medical community has been unhelpful in resolving her issues.
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 2:01:04 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like your mother is experiencing quite severe and distressing symptoms that are significantly impacting her quality of life. While I cannot provide a definitive diagnosis, her symptoms raise valid concerns regarding potential allergies or sensitivities related to the materials she works with, including felt and fabric.
Explanation
When cutting or working with materials like felt, it is possible for tiny fibers or particles to become airborne and inhaled. This can lead to respiratory irritation or allergic reactions, especially in individuals with sensitivities. Symptoms like severe headaches, nausea, and bladder issues may also be related to exposure to chemicals used in the manufacturing of these materials or from prolonged exposure to irritants. Additionally, the stress and physical strain from extended crafting sessions can worsen these symptoms.
Next Steps
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Limit Exposure: Encourage her to take regular breaks during her crafting sessions and limit the time spent working with felt and fabric. This can help to manage her symptoms and reduce the volume of airborne irritants.
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Mask Wearing: When she is working, consider that she could wear a dust mask or respirator to help filter out any airborne particles, minimizing inhalation of potential irritants.
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Environment: Improve ventilation in her crafting workspace. Opening windows or using an air purifier may help reduce the concentration of any irritants in the air.
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Symptom Tracking: Keep a symptom diary, noting when symptoms worsen and under what conditions. This may help identify specific triggers related to her crafting routine.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Encourage her to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. Sometimes nausea can be exacerbated by dehydration or poor nutrition.
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Alternative Materials: Explore alternative materials that may be less irritating (e.g., organic fabrics without chemical treatments) to see if they make a difference in her symptoms.
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Monitor Symptoms: If symptoms persist or worsen, it may be helpful for her to seek a specialist, such as an allergist, who can conduct specific tests to determine allergies or sensitivities.
Support
I understand this situation is challenging. It’s important that her experiences are acknowledged and validated, and her health is prioritized. Monitoring her symptoms and making gradual changes can bring some relief over time. If you have any other questions or thoughts, please feel free to share.
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