MCS may be caused by an acute exposure or repeated low-level exposures to various environmental chemicals or agents. While some reactions resemble symptoms commonly perceived as resulting from an allergy, it is important to understand that reactions to chemicals are serious and can include neurotoxic effects which can seriously impair functioning. Except for the MCS victims themselves, few people realize that reactions to environmental triggers may become so debilitating that those affected must make drastic lifestyle changes in order to survive. Reactions can include symptoms such as headache, fatigue, burning of the eyes, nose and throat, voice loss, respiratory or breathing difficulties, dizziness, nausea, gastrointestinal problems, musculoskeletal pain and weakness, sleep disorders, seizure disorders, memory loss, concentration problems and cognitive dysfunction, etc. As you can tell, these symptoms can affect many organ systems and can be mild, moderate or severe.
Symptoms can be immediate or delayed, transitory or chronic.
The frequency and severity of these symptoms are made worse by subsequent exposures at even very low doses to a wider range of chemicals and other irritants from a great variety of sources, e.g., air pollutants, food additives, fuels, building materials, scented products, cleaning agents, etc. The best treatment for chemical sensitivity is avoidance of the offending substances. Coping measures start with the person identifying triggering agents and avoiding them. Also, it is necessary to clean up one's surroundings by investigating and reducing sources of indoor air pollution. With time, one may be able gradually to reintroduce foods, a new piece of clothing, furniture, etc., one at a time.