WHAT IS ELECTROHYPERSENSITIVITY
Adapted from material written by Beau Binder and Anna Jonsson
Description
Electrohypersensitivity or EHS is a physiological condition. It is characterized by neurological and immunological symptoms that noticeably flare or intensify upon, or following expose to:
- electric and magnetic fields (EMF)
- one or more of the types of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) found in the modern environment
Having Electromagnetic Field Sensitivity means experiencing recurring stress or illness when near active EMF sources or emitters of EMR. Symptoms normally diminish with distance from these sources but typically require considerable time to vanish after exposure. The World Health Organization identifies this collection of symptoms and triggers as Electrohypersensitivity, often referred to as Electrosensitivity. It is not recognized as a medical diagnosis. However, it is accepted as a functional impairment in Sweden and the Canadian Human Rights Commission recognizes it as an environmental sensitivity and classifies it as a disability.
Likely Causes
Excessive exposures to EMF or EMR from power lines, cell phone transmission towers, cell & digital cordless phones, computers, fluorescent lights and various electrical tools & equipment.
Similarly, a synergistic effect involving heavy metal buildup in the body has been reported. Predisposing genetic factors, such as the inability to excrete heavy metals, have a role in this. Common sources of heavy metal exposure are mercury in dental amalgam, aka "silver fillings", and some vaccines.
Common Symptoms
- Concentration problems
- Memory lapses
- Aches or pressure in head, throat and chest
- Unsteady balance, dizziness
- Altered heart rate
- Ringing in the ears
- Excessive fatigue
- Numbness or pain in affected areas
- Sleep disturbances
- Eye irritation
- Red skin blotches, eczema
Four Stages of Electrohypersensitivity
- Mild combinations of some of the common symptoms - typically headaches, concentration & memory problems - while working with electronic equipment.
- Longer lasting symptoms after working with electronic equipment. Similar reactions in the vicinity of transmission towers and relay antennae. Symptoms often require medical care.
- Inability to work full-time; frequent sick leaves taken to cope with symptoms.
- Acute adverse reactions from electromagnetic pollution, both in outdoor and indoor environments. Results in unemployment and severe curtailment of freedom. Requires expensive reengineering of home environment or relocation to spartan, EMF/EMR-free rural or wilderness areas.
Prevention Tips from the EHS Community
- Keep bedroom free of battery chargers, cell & digital cordless phones and other wireless products.
- Sleep away from high field areas like the house power main and operational refrigerators. Remember fields extend some distance, even through walls.
- Limit exposure to and keep distance from, TV's, computers and monitors.
- Other common high EMF/EMR sources are: microwave ovens, induction stoves, electrical blankets, hair dryers, heating pads, tanning beds, and radiant heat systems.
- Use standard land line phones. Only use cell phones for short calls or emergencies. Use hands free model and direct the phone antenna away from your body. Do not use headphones.
- Remove digital, cordless phones from home and office; they act as mini-cell towers.
- Do not use wireless networks or gaming systems; instead use cabled/corded alternatives.
- Use a precautionary approach to new electronic devices and systems.
- Use incandescent lighting and not fluorescent.
- Turn off and unplug electrical equipment when not in use.
- Seek out low emission/low field areas both indoors and outdoors to de-stress.
If you have, or believe you may have EHS, we have prepared an information package to help you talk to your doctor about it. Please see: Talking to Your Doctor. Take a printed copy with you, to your next appointment with him/her.
For more indepth information about what you need to do to regain and maintain your good health see: Living with EHS; A Survival Guide