thanks for your reply Jen. I have been trying avoidance lately too. I haven't had to use the rescue inhaler all month. No asthma attacks from perfume, although it still smells really, really strong to me. I've been on advair and I really like it.

I'm happy you were able to leave the drugs behind you. The dr said in January I can give it a try since my lungs are working a lot better now.

I know what you mean about the anxiety. I put people into categories, I label the worst as criminal perfumers. Before I even smell anything I start inhaling shallowly because I think I won't be able to breath in a minute. Sometimes my labels are inaccurate.