Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome

MCSS or multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome is an extreme sensitivity or hypersensitivity to certain chemical odors and affects seventeen to thirty four percent of Americans annually. This condition is particularly prevalent among the individuals who suffer from fibromyalgia as estimates show that as many as two thirds of fibromyalgia patients will develop MCSS as some point in time.

MCSS not only causes hypersensitivity to smells but can also cause extreme sensitivity to lights, sounds, and temperatures as well. This condition can adversely affect many aspects of life for those who suffer from it and can also significantly intensify the symptoms of fibromyalgia. 

The Different Types and Symptoms of MCSS 

The majority of people who suffer from multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome typically have a hypersensitivity to fuel, herbicides and pesticides, perfumes, caffeine and food additives, carpets, painting supplies and building materials. MCSS is classified by two different types with the first being "MCSS with identifiable exposure".

With this type of MCSS the individual who has the symptoms typically can identify the particular chemical or substance that caused them to have the reaction. The second type of MCSS is known as "MCSS with non-identifiable exposure" and is the most common type of MCSS among the sufferers of fibromyalgia. Individuals with this form of MCSS are typically unable to determine exactly what chemical or substance created their symptoms. 

There are many symptoms associated with MCSS that can vary from mild to severe and individuals tend to experience an increase in the symptoms of sensitivity over a period of time as well as becoming sensitive to a greater number of chemicals. These symptoms may include allergy like symptoms of itchy watery eyes, sore throat, and runny nose, difficulty breathing, upset stomach, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, migraine headaches, aching muscles and joints, trouble concentrating, scalp pain, fatigue, and earache.

Individuals who experience environmental sensitivity may also have symptoms that include sensitivity to loud noises, bright lights, changes in the weather, electromagnetic fields, and experience problems with balance. 

Potential Causes of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome 

Researchers have been unable to determine the exact cause of multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome, however, several theories have been posed as to the potential causes with some researchers saying that this condition is purely psychological while others believe that there is a neurological problem responsible for causing this sensitivity.

One of these theories suggest that the anxiety and depression that is common among the sufferers of fibromyalgia may be the cause of the development of symptoms due to the fact that some of these individuals actually experience a kind of panic attack and have a high level of anxiety when being exposed or coming into contact with certain chemicals. 

Another theory suggests that some individuals may lose their tolerance of certain chemicals after being exposed to them over a period of time, while other medical experts believe that the condition may be caused by a disorder of the immune system. Unfortunately, because the cause of multiple chemical syndrome is unknown, there is no specific treatment and in most cases the recommendation given is to avoid the known chemicals or substances that cause the symptoms.