Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity

Overview

Twenty-five years ago, the term „Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity“ (EHS) was introduced for the syndrome characterized by a broad spectrum of different subjective symptoms, attributed by afflicted persons to the influence of electromagnetic (EM) fields emitted by different sources in their neighbourhood. However, the field intensities found in flats or workplaces of the complaining persons appeared almost always by orders of magnitude lower than hygienic limits recommended by recognized international bodies. In spite of great efforts, the presumed causal connection of the syndrome with exposure to EM fields has never been established. The syndrome gradually acquired epidemic character in many parts of the world. The World Health Organization has paid attention for a long time to the phenomenon and still supports research on the possible influence of weak EM fields on persons supposedly sensitive to very low exposure levels. We show in the presented paper, that many logical, physical, biological and epidemiological arguments disprove the idea of any direct, causal connection of the syndrome with exposure to EM fields. The phenomenon called till now Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS) is undoubtedly a psychosomatic phobic reaction, evoked by unsubstantiated fear from the adverse influence of EM fields, augmented by false information from the media and possibly by purpose-built motivation. It can be included into the realm of environmental somatic syndromes (ESS) or idiopathic environmental intolerance (IEI).

We present a simple scheme describing – in agreement with all known facts – a psychosomatic mechanism of the development of EHS. As the name Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity for the syndrome should be considered inappropriate, we suggest the term “Electrophobic Psychosomatic Syndrome”, with acronym EPS, instead. Further research into the syndrome should stop the futile seeking of a reaction of the afflicted persons to EM fields and should be oriented on causal factors from the psycho-sociological domain. For medical treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy seems to be the most effective. The often recommended and realized technical and precautionary measures, aimed at the reduction of EM exposure, are senseless.

Key words:
elektromagnetic hypersensitivity – EHS – magnetic fields – treatment.