Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Cause Allergy Reactions

Filed Under Allergy Symptoms, Allergy Prevention, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity | Leave a Comment

Multiple chemical senstivity refers to a condition caused by an exposure to a wide range of chemicals that can range from a chemical spill, to poor ventilation in an office environment. Other terms that have also been frequently used to describe the same thing include “environmental illness” or “sick building syndrome”.

Unfortunately, many medical groups do not actually consider MCS to be a recognized physical disorder since there is a lack of clinical evidence supporting the existence of this condition. Yet, there are several cases of sufferers complaining about the effects of MCS - including anxiety, depression and other mental disorders that may express in physical symptoms - making it difficult to assess whether the symptoms are physical or psychologically based.

Other symptoms of MCS reported include fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, irritability, concentration problems, intolerance to cold or to heat, earaches, congestion of the nasal passages, itching, sneezing, memory problems, diarrhea,chest pain, muscle pain, sore throat, skin rashes or hives and also mood changes.

Many products have been identified as possible allergens leading to MCS. They include: tobacco smoke, perfume, exhaust from gasoline fumes, nail polish remover, newspaper ink, artificial food preservatives, hair spray or paint spray, insecticides, artificial sweeteners and colors, new carpeting, felt tip pens, adhesive tape, chlorine in pools, and also flame retardants on clothing or furniture.

Sadly, many doctors do not recognize MCS, and will not give a diagnosis. This makes research studies difficult due to lack of statistics. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reported that 1/3 of individuals working in sealed buildings have claimed to be sensitive to one or more chemicals. Females are more likely than males to complain of MCS. Findings indicate that MCS develops more often in the 30 to 50 age group.

Doctors who support the idea of MCS make the diagnosis by conducting a complete medical examination, looking into the medical history, and ordering diagnostic tests such as X-rays, and blood tests. Allergies are ruled out as well as other mental health disorders, physical ailments and other causes for symptoms, for a conclusion.

The only way to treat MCS is probably to stay alert to symptoms and to remove yourself as much as possible to an exposure to chemicals. There are also support groups that you can join, if you believe that MCS is the case for you.