Fabric softeners are one of the commonly used laundry products across households for providing a soft and fresh feel to the clothes. However, the use of fabric softeners comes with various health-related concerns, including the risk of infarction.

The chemicals present in fabric softeners have the potential to cause various health issues, with the risk of infarction being one of the most severe. This article provides you with an understanding of the risks associated with fabric softener use and measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of infarction.

What is Infarction?

Infarction is the obstruction of blood flow to an organ leading to damage or death of the tissue. Infarction can occur due to a variety of factors, including thrombosis, embolism, vasospasm, and inflammation.

The most common type of infarction is myocardial infarction (commonly known as a heart attack), which occurs when the blood flow to the heart is obstructed, leading to damage or death of the heart muscle.

Linking Fabric Softener Use and Infarction Risk

Various chemicals used in fabric softeners can cause inflammation, allergies, and harm to the respiratory system.

The most commonly used fabric softeners contain quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), which are known to cause several health issues, including the risk of infarction. According to a study published by the American Thoracic Society, the use of quats in fabric softeners was linked to an increased risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The study further suggested that frequent use of quats can cause various health issues, including the risk of infarction.

Chemicals in Fabric Softeners that Increase Infarction Risk

Fabric softeners contain various chemicals that pose a risk of infarction and other health issues. Some of the commonly used chemicals that increase the risk of infarction include:.

Quats: Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are the most commonly used chemical in fabric softeners, which are known to cause respiratory issues. These chemicals can cause damage to the respiratory system, leading to the risk of infarction.
Terpenes: Terpenes are volatile organic compounds used in fabric softeners to provide a fresh scent to the clothes. However, long-term exposure to terpenes can cause respiratory issues and increase the risk of infarction.
Carcinogens: Some fabric softeners contain carcinogens such as benzene and toluene, which are known to cause cancer and other health issues, including the risk of infarction.

Measures to Reduce the Risk of Infarction

To reduce the risk of infarction due to fabric softener use, one can follow the below measures:.

Avoid using fabric softeners: The best option to reduce the risk of infarction is to avoid using fabric softeners altogether.
Opt for natural alternatives: One can opt for natural alternatives such as vinegar, baking soda, or wool dryer balls to soften the clothes.
Choose fragrance-free products: If you still prefer to use fabric softeners, choose fragrance-free products as they contain lower levels of chemicals.
Use liquid fabric softeners: Liquid fabric softeners are less likely to cause respiratory issues as compared to dryer sheets as they contain lower levels of chemicals.

Conclusion

The use of fabric softeners can pose severe health risks, including the risk of infarction. The chemicals present in fabric softeners, mainly quats, terpenes, and carcinogens, can cause various health issues.

Therefore, it is advisable to avoid using fabric softeners altogether or use them with necessary precautions. Opting for natural alternatives or fragrance-free products and using liquid fabric softeners can help reduce the risk of infarction and other health issues.