I have a problem with JoAnns at times. Sometimes I just have to leave because I'll get a headache and feel nauseated.

It could be from the chemicals in the fabric. Also, Febreeze, scented items, perfumes, these are all made with petroleum. Not good for anyone to be breathing or absorbing through their skin, and some people display sensitivities more obviously than others. Physical problems, as well as attention, learning, mood issues can all be attributed to these chemicals, as well. We don't use scented or dyed anything at our house, and commercials for all the scented stuff to keep your laundry or home smelling "fresh" just drive me nuts- that stuff is SO bad for you (and the people around you who have to breath it, too!). Don't even get me started on all the petroleum and other chemicals that are FDA approved and added to processed food more often than not.

The only manufactured scent in my home is in my laundry. I like the smell. And family is not sensitive to it. I don't use candles or scented bath soaps or air freshener. I do love fresh flowers. For clean fresh air in my home I boil vinegar and take the steaming pot around in each room. The vinegar smell goes away in minutes and the air has been disinfected and all odors are gone, even when my dog comes in wet. My grandmother did the vinegar air treatment every evening. She said that kept the germs out of the air that all us kid brought in everyday.

well sometimes it could be the dyes they use i get that way if im in there a long time but it doesnt stop me lol keep going

Yes, the dyes and finishing on material bother me a lot. After it is washed and dried it is okay.

It is the chemicals and the lint and dust from the fabrics. People seem to forget that fabric is made from thread and thread has lint If there isn't a good exhaust system in place in large warehouse areas, sneezing and coughing starts. My hands and arms will sometimes breakout with a rash. Your sneezing mechanism in is the corner of your eye by your nose and keep washing and rinsing to keep that area clean and that will help.

If you have those issues, and are touching fabric, remember not to touch your face, neck or chest at all until you are able to wash your hands. Might want to consider carrying a wet washcloth, etc.

I often have a flare up after I have been to quilting group, or worked with un-washed fabrics...the sizing/chemicals in the fabrics, and or dust that can collect can cause it...I also sometimes have problems after being under the fluorescent lighting...really can wreak havoc with auto-immune diseases...but, I love my quilting hobby, so I try and take measures to minimize any side-effects.
Kif

I have that problem too - and I have asthma. But my fabric addiction is so much stronger! I just use my inhaler and prepare for the sneeze-a-thon!

I have the same issues. Not respiratory but definately skin allergies. It's not only unwashed fabrics that will affect me but lots of things in the environment. I take medication every day and shots 2 times a month to maintain. I have prescription creams that I have to apply to my hands after being around and touching fabrics. I have to wash my hands and apply the creams everytime I go to a fabric store, sometimes while I am still there!!