Electronic devices have become a super helpful and convenient part of our daily lives. They let us do all sorts of things like browsing the internet or zapping our leftovers in the microwave. But as technology continues to advance, there has been an unparalleled surge in both the quantity and variety of sources emitting electromagnetic fields (EMF).
EMF (Electromagnetic Field) radiation is a form of energy that is generated by electrical and electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets, Wi-Fi routers, and power lines. While EMF in very low amounts is harmless to humans, some people are more sensitive to its effects than others.
For people with Electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), avoiding EMF radiation can be challenging in our modern world, as technology is ubiquitous. Some electrosensitive individuals may choose to live in remote areas with no electrical infrastructure, while others may take steps to reduce their exposure to EMF radiation.
In this article, we’ll learn more about what EHS is and how everyday EMF radiation can affect people with EHS.
What is Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity?
Electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) is a condition in which people experience physical and psychological symptoms when they are exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMF) from devices such as cell phones, Wi-Fi routers, and other electronic devices.
It’s a condition where individuals experience a range of symptoms when exposed to EMF radiation. These symptoms can include:
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Skin rash
- A range of other physical and psychological symptoms.
Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity and its Prevalence
When it comes to electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), estimates of how common it is vary widely. One survey of medical centers estimated that only a few individuals per million in the population have EHS. However, a survey of self-help groups showed much higher numbers. About 10% of cases reported were considered severe.
It's also interesting to note that the prevalence of EHS and the symptoms reported can differ depending on where you are in the world. Studies have shown that EHS is more common in Sweden, Germany, and Denmark than in the United Kingdom, Austria, and France.
In Scandinavian countries, symptoms related to computer screens were more common and often involved skin disorders. It's worth mentioning that symptoms similar to those reported by EHS individuals are actually quite common in the general population.
EHS and Low EMF Radiation
The lack of recognition of both clinical criteria and objective biomarkers for widely accepted diagnosis is at the root of much of the controversy over electro-hypersensitivity (EHS) and multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS). As of today, there is sufficient clinical, biological, and radiological data to recognize EHS as a distinct, well-defined, objectively identified, and characterized neurologic disorder.
In their studies (Belpomme & Irigaray 2020), researchers from France and Belgium found EHS is frequently associated with MCS, indicating that the symptoms of both conditions are caused by the same pathophysiological mechanism.
The present medical needs of people with environmental sensitivities, including EHS and/or MCS, are not standardized nor recognised internationally. The first and most important step is to minimize/avoid exposure to man made electromagnetic fields (EMF) and chemicals (Belpomme & Irigaray 2020).
According to the results of biological investigations and the use of biomarkers, there are some empirical treatments that may be recommended. Among EHS patients, Belpomme and Irigaray found that vitamin D and zinc deficiencies are common. In addition, there are signs of an antioxidant and antihistamine deficiency. In the years since the WHO's official statements in 2005 and 2014, many research groups have reported significant progress in identifying and understanding EHS (and MCS) and the bioclinical health effects of man-made EMFs. However, EHS and MCS have not been clearly characterized by WHO, and it is imperative to include EHS in the International Classification of Diseases immediately to assist its patients.
Taking Precautions Against EMF Radiation
When it comes to protecting yourself and your family against electromagnetic radiation from wireless devices, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Taking some basic steps to minimize your exposure to EMFs could potentially reduce your risk and provide peace of mind.
With that said, here are 3 tips on how you can reduce you and your family’s exposure to EMF radiation:
- Avoid or minimize using EMF-emitting devices
How much you are exposed to EMF radiation is cumulative. This means that your radiation exposure increases over time if you repeatedly expose yourself to EMF-emitting technology.
- Avoid places in your home where you can see a cellular tower from a window
If you can't get away, you can at least move to a farther location in your home where there may be barriers to decrease your exposure.
- Use EMF shielding products or apparel
Radia Smart Product uses highly conductive shielding fabric which provides up to 99.9% shielding effectiveness for radiation from cell phones, laptops, tablets, WIFI, Bluetooth, and other devices (non-ionizing radiation) including mobile phone towers. Our products have been tested against an RF of 18 GHz and the shielding effectiveness is consistent at 99%.
References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/electromagnetic-hypersensitivity
