Do you experience any adverse symptoms after talking to much on your cell phone or working for a long time on the computer? If so, you might have symptoms of Electrohypersensitivity.
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 (WHO) identifies this collection of symptoms and triggers as Electrohypersensitivity, often referred to as Electrosensitivity. It is not recognised 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.
EHS is frequently seen in people with multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS), resulting from overexposure or intolerance to certain chemicals.
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.
- Go here for a Free EHS Assessment online to determine if you have any symptoms of EHS.
Electrosensitivity and Sleep
Some studies have shown that exposure to EMF may negatively impact natural circadian rhythm function, interfering with quality sleep.
Whether or not EMFs impact sleep, devices are not conducive to healthy sleep due to the effect of blue light upon melatonin production at night. Blue light from electronics decreases melatonin production, reducing our capacity for restorative sleep.
EMF Sensitivity and Mood
EMF may alter one pathway via voltage-gated calcium channels which impacts neurotransmitter function–like serotonin and dopamine – which are responsible for mood, memory, attention, and focus.
EMF Sensitivity and Fertility
Men are often instructed to avoid setting laptops directly on their lap, citing an increase in temperature which can harm sperm. But other research shows EMF may play a role in decreased sperm motility and viability.
With all the exposure to EMF we encounter in almost every activity of our lives, it can be tempting to want to seal yourself in a bubble. But don’t get discouraged, there are easy ways to reduce your exposure to EMFs–and many of these actions have other functional benefits as well!
There are 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.
- Get an EMF Consultant to assess the radiation levels of electromagnetic fields in your home or office.
Source: EMF Aware
