Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is
a syndrome in which multiple symptoms reportedly occur with low-level chemical exposure
. Several theories have been advanced to explain the cause of MCS, including allergy, toxic effects and neurobiologic sensitization.
What are the symptoms of MCS?
- disorientation, confusion.
- rash.
- hyperactivity.
- headaches, migraine.
- chest pains.
- breathing problems.
- muscle pain, weakness.
- loss of balance, clumsiness.
What are the symptoms of multiple chemical sensitivity?
- Headaches.
- Rashes.
- Asthma.
- Muscle and joint aches.
- Fatigue.
- Memory loss.
- Confusion.
How common is multiple chemical sensitivity?
Close to 13% of adults
in the US have been diagnosed with MCS, which may sometimes be called multiple environmental chemical sensitivities, polyallergy, or environmental illness. Nearly 26% of the population reports chemical sensitivity.
What kind of doctors treat multiple chemical sensitivity?
A medical specialty known as clinical ecology has developed, in which doctors (primarily
allergists
) diagnose and treat this syndrome.
How do you get diagnosed with MCS?
Diagnostic criteria for MCS. The diagnosis of MCS should be
suspected if a patient reports impaired well
-being whenever exposed to more than one chemical in concentrations which do not effect the general population. In the extreme, the concentrations are very low and the patient is very sick and claims disability.
How do you get rid of multiple chemical sensitivity?
There are no reliable tests to diagnose multiple chemical sensitivity, and there
are no effective or proven treatments
. Some doctors prescribe antidepressants, including “SSRIs” (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as citalopram (Celexa), fluoxetine (Prozac), and paroxetine (Paxil).
Is Multiple Chemical Sensitivity an autoimmune disease?
Immunological. Researchers have studied immunity biomarkers in people with MCS to determine whether MCS could be an autoimmune disorder or allergic response, but the results have been
inconclusive
.
Is MCS a mental illness?
As patients experience many psychological symptoms, some researchers believe that MCS may be
a syndrome associated with a pre-existing psychiatric disorder
such as anxiety [11].
Is multiple chemical sensitivity a disability?
Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), also known as chemical intolerance (CI) or chemical hypersensitivity, is
an emerging disabling illness characterized by chronic adverse effects from exposure to low levels of chemicals in the modern human environment
. It may or may not be accompanied by electrical hypersensitivity.
How do you get rid of a chemical allergy?
You can sometimes treat symptoms yourself with over-the-counter medications such as
calamine lotion, antihistamines
, or cortisone ointments. See your doctor if you have frequent or severe outbreaks. They can help you find out why it happens and give you prescription medications if you need them.
What causes fragrance sensitivity?
Causes. Fragrance sensitivity occurs due to
a trigger irritating the respiratory system
. This irritation actually causes slight damage to the affected tissue. Some people are especially susceptible to fragrance sensitivity.
What causes chemical sensitivity?
WHAT CAUSES CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY? People can become sensitive to
chemicals after a major chemical exposure
or after long-term, low-level exposure to chemicals, e.g. pesticides. Chemical sensitivity can also occur after a virus or other illness, or with hormonal disturbances, e.g. during or after pregnancy.
Can MCS be cured?
There is currently no known cure for clearing
multiple chemical sensitivity completely, but there are certainly a lot of natural, simple ways you can manage any chemical sensitivity symptoms.
Can fibromyalgia cause multiple chemical sensitivities?
Patients with Fibromyalgia can also
show signs
of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). Someone with MCS will react badly to low amounts of chemical substances in the environment either through smell, touch or ingestion.
What is the ICD 10 code for multiple sensitivity?
Contact with and (suspected) exposure to other hazardous, chiefly nonmedicinal, chemicals.
Z77. 098
is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
