Could You Have Multiple Chemical Sensitivity? Amsterdam NY
Could You Have Multiple Chemical Sensitivity?
It’s now common knowledge that many toxins are linked to medical conditions such as allergies, asthma or migraines. This awareness is driving many of us to go green in our homes, workplaces and communities. While some people may not experience immediate symptoms due to toxic chemical exposure, many others aren’t so lucky.
These unlucky people, who some sources estimate are about 16 percent of the population, have multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) or environmental illness. They suffer allergic attacks and other reactions to chemical exposure. The illness is often lumped in with other conditions with similar symptoms, such as chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Like these two conditions, MCS has its share of critics.
Some health organizations do not recognize MCS. For instance, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that there is still considerable doubt that the condition exists. However, it has been recognized in countries such as Canada, Denmark and Germany.
For people who suffer from chemical illness, there’s no debate that it exists. The first cases were documented back in the early 1950s by an allergist, Dr. Theron Randolph, who noticed some of his patients’ symptoms were linked to common, everyday chemicals. Randolph later went on to co-found the American Academy for Environmental Medicine, a ground-breaking organization that helps doctors to diagnose and treat environmental illnesses.
What Are the Symptoms of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity?
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) chemical sensitivities can range from a heightened sensitivity to unpleasant odors, to irritation and burning of the mucous membranes, eyes, nose and throat. Only a few chemicals can spark a true immune system response, including acid anhydrides, isocyanates and other chemicals that can bond to human proteins...
