Electrosensitivity (ES) also called Electro Hypersensitivity (EHS) is an illness which flares or intensifies upon or following exposure to electromagnetic radiation emitted from electrical appliances, especially computer monitors, power lines, fluorescent lights, mobile phones, cordless phones, wireless computers (wLANs), mobile phone cell phone towers, etc.. EHS is defined by the World Health Organization as: “…a phenomenon where individuals experience adverse health effects while in the vicinity of devices emanating electric, magnetic, or electromagnetic fields.”
People who have developed EHS have a physiological disorder, characterized by neurological and immunological symptoms which normally include some of the following:
* Depression
* Heart Arrhythmia
* Fatigue
* Insomnia
* Headaches
* Concentration problems
* Aches in the head, throat and chest
* Impaired balance
* Tinnitus
* Numbness, tingling, or pain in an area
* Red skin blotches/eczema
The symptoms of electrosensitivity diminish with distance from the EMF source. However, it can take several days, weeks or even months if the person has become severely affected.
ES is not recognized as a medical diagnosis in the United States. However, in Sweden it is considered a functional impairment. The Canadian Human Rights Commission recognizes ES as an environmental sensitivity and classifies it as a disability.
We don’t know exactly what causes electrosensitivity. It’s possible that high exposure levels to EMF from power lines, cell phone towers, cell phones, cordless phones, computers, fluorescent lights and various electrical tools & equipment contribute to the condition. People with multiple chemical sensitivities often have ES. Genetic factors, such as not efficiently excreting heavy metals, unlike most people, play a role. Heavy metal buildup in the body has been reported as a factor in ES. Common sources of heavy metal exposure are mercury in dental amalgam, aka "silver fillings", and some vaccines.
There are 4 stages of electrosensitivity:
* Mild reaction with 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.
To learn more about the life of someone with electrosensitivity go to Personal Stories.