Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Theories
- Chemical Allergy (A 1960s concept, since disproved)
- Autoimmune Illness (Under JHU study)
- Limbic Kindling (Via limbic control of sensory pathways)
- Neurogenic Inflammation (Via the olfactory nerve)
- Neurologic/ Toxic Encephalopathy
- Porphyrin Disorder (Via heme synthesis)
- Toxicant-Induced Loss of Tolerance (Most recent)
- Subconscious Reaction to Early Childhood Abuse (“Belief-system” induced by doctors)
A segment of the medical profession denies the physical condition of MCS, claiming that the issue is solely psychological. These critics hold that MCS is a psychological in origin bercause no mechanism for cross-sensitization to unrelated chemicals has been found in the immune system. Additionally, the fact that the symptoms can be inconsistent and unpredictable from the same kind of exposure at different times leads to the interpretation that these inconsistencies are evidence of hypochondria. Other medical clinicians affirm the existnce of the condition, but admit that the reaction is so severe that fear, trauma, and pain bring on irrational behavior caused by fears of chemical exposure.
Reference: Managing IAQ. Pg. 54.