Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome,as the name suggests, is a chronic medical condition where the patient develops a sensitivity or allergic reaction to certain chemicals. Chemicals have become a constant part of our daily lives now, starting with smoke, pesticides, plastics, synthetic fabrics, petroleum, scented products, and paints. While our day starts with chemicals such as smoke, petroleum or the car deodorizer, entering the office starts another chemical ridden journey with insecticides, room fresheners, and other types of toxins and biological wastes which are trapped inside the buildings. The symptoms of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome (MCS) include irritation of eyes, nose, throat, chest, and skin. Some people experience itchiness, dryness or redness of skin while others may experience headaches, fatigue, asthma, coughing, chronic nasal stuffiness, infections and mental irritability. The other people who get affected by chemical sensitivity include those working in hazardous professions and may suffer from chemical spills. Those working in farms and staying near fields are also prone to chemical sensitivity from pesticide application.

How is Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome Diagnosed?

There are no tests to diagnose MCS, unlike allergies or other immune-mediated sensitivities, which can be determined through proper testing. However, to rule out organic pathologies that may be mistaken for MCS, if the history is indicative,it is important for the physician evaluating a patient with suspected MCS. These can include occupational asthma, reactive airways dysfunction syndrome, somatic disorders such as allergic rhinitis, irritant-induced asthma. Also, include those with vague or subtle presentations, such as Multiple sclerosis, hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, systemic lupus erythematosus, hypercalcemia are other illnesses that can mimic MCS. Other diseases that may coexist with MCS, present as MCS, or mimic MCS include psychiatric illnesses such as somatoform disorders, panic and other anxiety disorders, depression, and personality disorders.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Treatment Options

While there's no specific treatment for chemical sensitivity, certain lifestyle changes may help to improve or resolve symptoms. First of all, it's essential to initially identify and avoid the chemicals that are causing symptoms. These will be different for each individual and sometimes it is a process of elimination before identifying the culprit(s). Secondly, reducing or eliminating caffeine and alcohol in one's diet may help to reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms. Third of all, certain medications could trigger side effects similar to chemical sensitivity symptoms. Be sure to discuss your medications with your physician to avoid unpleasant side effects or interactions. There are also other alternative Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Treatment exists which can help reduce the symptoms effectively. These treatments involve training programs to manage the symptoms. You can easily find such programs online.