CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY AND

CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY AND/OR EMR SENSITIVITY

Chemical Pollution and Allergy

An article in the British Medical Journal Vol. 328, Feb 2004 recognises the public concern relating to environmental chemical exposure and the reported effects on health. After reviewing the literature and considering the effects that chemicals may play in the development of human illnesses the authors consider that 75% of most cancers are attributable to environmental and lifestyle factors. Included in these factors are both electromagnetic radiation (EMR) and synthetic chemicals exposures. Some chemicals are known as hormone disrupters as are some frequencies of EMR. Both agents cause biological activity which in turn can reasonably be seen to have adverse effects on the health of the affected system. There are many debilitating and incapacitating conditions which are prevalent in the community other than cancer, that are having an adversely impacting on the individual, the family unit and the community as a whole. These conditions can be found to be closely associated with either a chronic or a severe exposure to chemical pollution and or electromagnetic radiation. It is this close association of adverse health effects with either or both chemicals or EMR that is the focus of concern for many people.

Chemical pollution pervades all aspects of life from conception onward. Dr Judy Ford (Geneticist) has published material on this topic. (See Ref section). Children with behaviour problems often show signs of chemical intolerance.

After many years of being ignored, to the detriment of the health of many people the condition known as multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is now listed in Germany as a definite clinical entity. We trust other countries will soon follow suit.

MCS affects approximately 15% of the US population according to one unofficial source and the results of the South Australian Government Inquiry into MCS may reveal similar figures in this country, if empirical evidence of the incidence of MCS is any guide.

From North America comes news that MCS is taken seriously and municipal bans have been set on the use of fragrances in public. Found in a regional newsletter “ It is no longer considered considerate or correct to wear perfume aftershave or cologne to the office or cinema, religious services or social events, where people with fragrance sensitivities or allergies may be. Similarly, in Nova Scotia fragrances are banned on public transport.

A great deal has been written and published by health professionals and lay people on the effects of chemical sensitivity. The reader is encouraged to seek out reliable publications. Dr Doris Rapp has recently published a book.

From a book by Pamela Reed Gibson Ph.D., James Madison University USA :

“ In multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) a person develops markedly negative reactions to everyday chemical exposures. These include exposures to pesticides in buildings, gardens, on our food and on pets; chemical cleaners; petrochemical heating systems; paints; perfumes; industrial emissions and a myriad of others.” And further….

“The condition of MCS develops in two stages, induction and triggering. In induction some contact with chemicals causes the person to sensitize to at least one class of chemicals. This contact can be one large exposure such as a chemical spill or pesticide application or it can be a low-level, ongoing exposure such as one might experience in a workplace with poor ventilation combined with (photo) copy fumes, perfume, and chemical cleaners. After induction, the person develops sensitivity to the chemical that was involved in the (initial) exposure and to other related chemicals. Thereafter the person will respond with symptoms when exposed to any of this class of chemicals. This is called ‘triggering’ The sensitivities developed are usually more or less permanent. Although the kind and intensity of reactions tend to spread over time, to other related chemicals.” Gibson calls for greater understanding for MCS patients and for health practitioners to provide a chemically clean environment, (waiting rooms) free of fresh paint, pesticides, smoke and perfume, forced air petrochemical heat, chemical cleaners and other toxic agents. Contact details:

Pamela Gibson, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Psychology
James Madison University
MSC 7401
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
540-568-6211, ext. 6195
gibsonpr@jmu.edu

In the interest of achieving and maintaining good health it is necessary to become aware of, and avoid wherever possible, all sources of environmental pollution. Both artificial electromagnetic field radiation and the ‘fallout’ from the use of artificial chemicals create a form of pollution both individually and in combination. The synergistic effects of these two multi dimensional agents cause far greater reactions than each would alone. The word multi dimensional is an apt description as EMR encompasses a multitude of frequencies just as the chemical pollution contains a multitude of chemical compounds and the carriers for those compounds which have been found to be equally as hazardous to health. Radiation (EMF/R) and toxic chemicals, in their many forms and in combination, have the potential to cause and or promote adverse health effects ranging from mild irritation to neuro-degenerative diseases and some forms of cancer.

Case Reports:

Pseudo Arthritis and Diesoline Fumes and EMR

In one case X-rays to determine a diagnosis of osteo-arthritis could not find sufficient tissue damage to explain the degree of pain the patient reported. The cause was found to be the inhalation of diesel exhaust fumes in the workplace (which also caused constant headaches) and the electric field associated with a high powered sewing machine. Another example of the EMR chemical connection.

These reports illustrate the distinct probability that many conditions than could be symptoms of the EHS syndrome. Where there is an absence of knowledge of the fact that EMR has the potential to cause effects that present as a pseudo-condition, errors are bound to occur. Education of the public and professions of this biological hazard is imperative.

Following are the contributions of two allergy patients. The strategies they have employed to reduce reactions and overcome the problem have also been used successfully by others.

Aware that the sensitivity responses to chemical substances are an individual matter both these contributors consulted their health professional prior to making any changes in their use of products or remedies listed here.

While we await scientific studies to provide the answers - once again - personal experiences counts.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

At the time of writing, the author has experienced at first hand the effects of unavoidable inhalation of air borne vapours of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the residue of a timber varnish. Before avoidance action could be taken acute awareness of a strong odour, though not unpleasant, became quite overpowering. Within minutes a prickling sensation developed in hands & on inspection the swelling of all joints in hands and wrists became obvious. Mind dulling and extreme tiredness followed and immediate action was necessary to neutralise this reaction. In this instance the remedy used was the TRI SALTS alkalising powder, which had a swift action reducing the symptoms to nil.

As reported by one Multiple Chemical Sensitivity sufferer. “ When first confronted with the idea that our symptoms could be the result of sensitivities to chemicals in our environment, the task of dealing with this seems daunting. Hopefully the following information will make it less so.”

The first thing is to find out what you are dealing with, read the recommended books on the subject. (See: Recommended Reading list in Reference section.)

Some of these books may be out of print – try your local library. A caution that needs to be stressed again and again: We do not all react in the same way to a substance to which we are sensitive. I may react by fainting, someone else may get a headache and another you may develop a rash. Do not assume that because you do not have the same symptoms as another person that you do not have a problem with that substance.

Symptom List

“MCS can affect any organ system including respiratory, digestive, neurological, endocrine, urinary, cardiovascular, or immune. The most common symptoms from one study were tiredness/lethargy, difficulty in concentrating muscle aches, memory problems and long term (chronic) fatigue (CFS).” ( P. Reed Gibson )

Below is a list of symptoms compiled by SafeWork :

General Effects :

Appetite loss;

Headache;

depression;

drowsiness;

thirst.

Motor Effects ;

Convulsions;

weakness;

psoriasis;

tremor;

twitching;

lack of co-ordination;

reflex abnormalities;

Sensory Effects;

Impaired color vision;

night blindness;

increase olfactory and auditory threshold;

ringing in the ears;

tinnitus;

equilibrium changes;

dizziness; pain and tactile disorders;

tingling; numbness;

increased cold sensitivity.

Cognitive Effects:

Concentration impairment;

fatigue;

memory problems;

confusion;

learning; and speech impairments;

mental slowing; reduced initiative;

delirium;

hallucinations.

Mood and Personality Effects.

Sleep disturbances;

excitability;

depression;

restlessness;

nervousness;

sexual activity loss;

tension;

(Modified from WK Arger 1986 Source; International Labour Office; Encyclopedia of Occupational Health & Safety.)

The following symptom list is in addition to the WorkSafe list and are the symptoms as reported by one individual. The list is by no means complete as just about any symptom may be traced to food or electrical sensitivity.

Swelling of different parts of body

Sweating unrelated to weather, exercise or menopause.

Fatigue

Racing Pulse

Food cravings

Hayfever

Rashes

Headache including migraine

Asthma

Mouth ulcers

Bad breath

Nasal catarrh and throat clearing

Bloating

Irritable bowel

Aching muscles and joints

Fainting and blackouts

Panic attacks

Overactivity

Inappropriate anger and violence

Nervous tension

Mental confusion

Delusions

Hallucinations

Anxiety

Exposure to electro magnetic radiation may cause various symptoms. Reactions to other substances may cause sensitivity to electrical appliances or the reacting person may cause interference to appliances, a well documented fact.

Battery operated watches becoming erratic or stopping

Feeling unwell, confused etc. when around computers etc.

Electrical appliances not operating normally when a sensitive person is within the vicinity of the appliance, particularly personal; computers.

Some simple first steps to take to help reduce offending items in the home are:

Use bicarbonate of soda in place of chemically based scouring products in bathroom and kitchen.

Pest control is another problem and leaflets are available from the Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals Committee - phone (02) 9247 8476. Total Environment Centre Sydney Australia. Or contact Systems Pest Management, a company specialising in low or non-toxic pest control - phone (02) 9564 1614. Sydney Australia.

The use of a water filter is often a big step in improving health but many people do not tolerate the resins found in some filters. Look more for charcoal and/or ceramic filters available from some health food stores. There are companies who specialise in water filtration (see your yellow pages phone book).

Booklets which itemise products suitable for the allergic/sensitive person are available from The Allergy and Environmental Sensitivity Support and Research Association (AESSRA)

Low Pollution and Travel Guide: $A6.00; send cheques or stamps to D. South c/o 5 James Street, Rye, Victoria Australia.

Natural and Non-toxic; contains list of useful products and services; Send cheque for $A6.00 to AESSRA Inc, PO Box 298, Ringwood, Victoria 3234 Australia.

"The Green Consumer Guide" by John Elkington and Julia Hailes with Choice Magazine and Australian Conservation Foundation.

"A-Z of Chemicals in the Home" choice books by the Total Environment Centre are two books that will give you further information and alternatives.

This information is meant as an initial guide and further reading and experience will give more information to continue on your road to better health.

People often ask what are the symptoms of chemical or food sensitivity. They are many and varied BUT at all times other medical conditions MUST be eliminated before assuming that the problem could be due to environmental sensitivity.

Compiled by Helen Breakspear, Sydney Australia.

Sources of Home Pollution

1. COMBUSTION UTILITIES

Gas - Oil - Kerosene

2. FURNISHINGS

Polyesters - Polyurethanes - carpet - plastics - particle board - rubber underlay - rubber backed curtains – plastic foam - electric blankets.

3. KITCHEN AND LAUNDRY PRODUCTS

Detergents - disinfectants - bleaches - plastics - other cleaning agent cooking odours

4. ORGANIC MATERIALS

Dust mite - moulds - animal hair.

5. PESTICIDE AND HERBICIDE RESIDUES

6. BATHROOM AND TOILET PRODUCTS

Perfumes - soaps - shampoos - cosmetics - hair sprays - deodorants - after

shave etc.

7. MISCELLANEOUS AGENTS

Aerosols - tobacco smoke - printed items - garden chemicals - fence treatments - insulation - paints - glues - varnishes etc.

General Cleaning Suggestions

Kitchen

Refrigerator: to freshen use an open box of bicarb soda.

Sinks: flat soda water makes stainless steel shine.

Tiles: wipe over with white vinegar.

Paintwork: use 1 tablespoon borax dissolved in boiling water and added to soapy water.

Stoves: while oven is still warm, wipe with a damp cloth. Soak racks in a solution of Amway LOC in very hot water. Washing soda and steel wool can be used. Stove tops can be kept clean with bicarb soda sprinkled on a damp cloth.

Drain Pipes: to clear use a handful of bicarb soda and 1/2 glass of vinegar.

Saucepans:: for burnt saucepans cover with vinegar and a layer of cooking salt. Leave overnight, bring to the boil and simmer 10 minutes then wash when cool OR sprinkle with bicarb soda and let stand OR simmer a strong solution of cream of tartar and enough water to cover for 15 - 20 minutes.

Bathroom

Bath and hand basin are kept clean with bicarb soda sprinkled on a damp cloth. Shine by wiping over with white vinegar.

Tiles wipe over with white vinegar.

Shower base and screens are cleaned with bicarb soda and scourer.

Toilets are cleaned with 1 cup white vinegar. It is even better if left all night. Stained bowls would need a scour with bicarb soda first.

Mirrors may be cleaned with a mild borax solution then polished with a dry cloth.

Extra bath cleaners 1 tablespoon cream of tartar and few drops hydrogen peroxide OR equal parts of borax, cream of tartar and a few drops hydrogen peroxide.

EVENTS LEADING TO IMMUNE SYSTEM DAMAGE

1. Infection particularly viral.

2. Heavy chemical exposures, most noticeably pesticides and occupational exposures

3. Prolonged stress and bereavement.

4. Massive trauma such as car accidents.

5. Hormonal disturbances - particularly those associated with pregnancy and after delivery, often after second baby

6. Premature introduction of foods in infancy.

7. Insect stings

8. Drug treatment including antibiotics.

9. Abrupt weight loss

10. Extensive irradiation.

A family history of allergic disorders is clearly important.

SENSITISATION TO CHEMICALS

1. MILDLY SENSITIVE

Petrol fumes

Aerosols

Food additives

Diesel fumes

Disinfectants

Perfumes

Municipal Water

Natural gas

Turpentine

Kerosene

Tobacco smoke

2. MODERATELY SENSITIVE

Formaldehyde

Terpenes e.g. Pine Oil

Pesticides and herbicides

Phenols

Rubber

3. HIGHLY SENSITIVE

Polyurethane

Polyesters

Plasticisers

Carpet glues

Pesticide residues in foods

If a patient is in category 1, it is not uncommon to develop further sensitivities unless an effort is made to minimise chemical exposures, and avoid infection.

WAYS TO AVOID ALLERGIES

Water Filters

Use only filtered water and for drinking and cooking. Use a water filter on the shower rose to avoid chlorine and other water additives while showering. - the large area of the skin will absorb a considerable amount of chlorine from a shower.

Indoor Plants

If you can tolerate plants in the house `this can be a means of improving indoor air quality. Due to the chemically polluted atmosphere in the space capsules of space craft and the effect it had on the astronauts, in 1989 the United States Space Agency –NASA, conducted an extensive study which found that particular plants absorb the airborne pollutants of formaldehyde, trichlorethelene and benzene. These chemicals are used in the production of the spacecraft equipment and many products used in furnishings and fittings in home, schools and offices and contribute to the ‘sick building syndrome’. The NASA study lists the plants useful in controlling the outgassing of the three chemicals mentioned here.

Formaldehyde is found in plywood, clothing, paper goods, furniture, carpeting. Symptoms of exposure; headaches, eye irritation, asthma (prolonged exposure). Plants to use; Philodendron, spider plant, golden pothos, corn plant, chrysanthemum and mother in laws tongue (sansevaria)

Benzene is found in synthetic fibres, gasoline, plastics, inks, oils, detergents, tobacco, smoke, and rubber. Symptoms of exposure; irritation of eyes, skin, headaches, loss of appetite. The plants to use; English Ivy, dracena marginata, janet craig, peace lily, gerbera daisy and warnecki.

Trichloethelene is found in inks, paints, varnishes, lacquers, adhesives and dry cleaning.

This chemical is known to be a potent liver carcinogen. Plants to us; peace lily, gerbera daisy, warnecki. Chrysanthemum, dracena marginata

Close windows at night when mould spores are released. Pollen is released from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. ( Southern Hemisphere )

Keep car windows closed while in a polluted area.

Clean interior of car with white vinegar. Plastic causes a film to build up in cars. Particularly when new. It is recommended that MCS, EHS and CFS people consider when purchasing a vehicle that a three year old car interior will be less polluted than a new car.

Use electricity, not gas or oil. (observe EMR avoidance - distance of 1metre)

Do not use plywood particle board or pine.

Avoid having flowers in the house.

Avoid contact with pets.

When you go out, shower and shampoo your hair before retiring to get rid of pollens, petro-chemicals, tobacco, fumes etc.

Keep bedroom as dust free as possible. Avoid stuffed toys, wall hangings and fussy furniture.

Avoid having carpets if possible.

Use cotton, linen, wool, silk rayon or hemp instead of synthetic fabrics.

Damp mop and dust.

Chemicals in clothing can often be removed by washing in bicarbonate of soda or borax and rinsing with vinegar.

Filter drinking water.

Suggested Remedies : used successfully by the contributors and others.

Please remember - check with your health practitioner for the suitability of any remedy for a particular case.

TRI SALTS

Sodium bicarbonate 3 parts

Potassium bicarbonate 2 parts

Calcium carbonate 1 part

Ask you pharmacist

CALCIUM ASCORBATE POWDER

Remedy used for reactions

1 teaspoon bicarb soda with 2 glasses water

1 hour later 1000mg Vitamin C (1/4 teaspoon = 832 mg.)

1 hour later 1 teaspoon bicarb soda with 2 glasses water.

Pesticide Reaction Remedy

A solution of 2 teaspoons bicarb soda dissolved in 1 cup boiled water is made. Using a washed, clean drop bottle, 5-6 drops was instilled into each nostril. The remaining solution was drunk followed by 1 cup water and 1 gm Cal. C an hour later. The source of this remedy recommended that the bicarb can be taken every 4 hours, until reaction clears. Cal C can also be taken every 4 hours.

Compiled by Myra Kynuer Sydney Australia.

MCS REFERENCES and READING LIST :

"Chemical Victims" by Richard Mackarness

"Dr. Mandell's 5 Day Allergy Relief System" by Dr. Marshall Mandell and Lynne Waller Scanlon

"Allergies: Your Hidden Enemy" by Theron G. Randolph MD. and Ralph W Moss Ph.D.

References;

Publisher Ethicare Pty Ltd ., Dee Why, 2099 NSW

Allergy And Environmental Sensitivity and Research Association Inc., (AESSRA) A Self Help and Information Group. Contact details : PO Box 298, Ringwood, Vic 3134 Website : http://www.vicnet.au/~aessra Email: aessra@medscape

CHECNET A USA based organization dedicated to the prevention of non-genetic childhood cancer and other environmentally caused childhood diseases. http://www.checnet.org

TOTAL ENVIRONMENT CENTRE Sydney, Australia

362 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2001 Phone: 02 9299 5599

Dr Judy Ford. Geneticist http://ww.egs.com.au

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: A Survival Guide (New Harbinger Publications, 2000)

Associate Professor of Psychology at James Madison University USA. MSC 7401,

Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807, 540-568-6211, ext. 6195 gibsonpr@jmu.edu

FRAGRANCE & HEALTH

PO BOX 29629 ATLANTA 30359 USA

Publisher Kangaroo Press Pty Ltd Kenthurst NSW

Published by Times Books A Div Random House Inc NY

INFORMATION