Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) and Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS): An Introduction to Environmental Illness

Abstract

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) and electromagnetic hypersensitivity are disabling conditions hallmarked by adverse reactions to chemicals and electromagnetic frequencies at levels generally considered safe. MCS is underpinned by a vicious cycle of escalating sensitivity initiated by exposure to seven classes of neurotoxicants. Our case study concerns a family sensitized to foods, chemicals and electromagnetic radiation after heavy exposure to phenoxy herbicides and organophosphate pesticides. Also addressed are a number of conditions frequently co-morbid with MCS, which also frequently involve an environmental sensitivity component-which include migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, ADHD, hypertension and certain cardiac problems.