IT’S the condition that a mother claims took the life of her young daughter. But what exactly is electromagnetic hypersensitivity syndrome – the condition making you allergic to wifi?
 |
| Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS) is a growing concern |
Jenny Fry, 15, was found hanging in Chadlington, Oxfordshire after she began suffering from an allergic reaction to wifi, or electromagnetic hypersensitivity syndrome (EHS).
In an inquest into Jenny’s death this week, her mother told Oxfordshire Coroners’ Court her daughter suffered from tiredness, headaches and bladder problems caused by irritation to wireless broadband.
The coroner could not conclude Jenny killed herself because of EHS, as no medical notes existed saying she suffered from the condition. But the case highlighted a growing concern.
 |
| The condition was even highlighted in a Breaking Bad spin off |
In August, the French legal system ruled that a 39 year-old woman was eligible to a £580 per month disability grant after she was forced to retreat to a barn after being severely affected by everyday gadgets, such as her mobile phone.
The condition was also recently thrust in to the public-eye with Better Call Saul - the Breaking Bad Spin Off - where one of the main characters covers himself in a space blanket and avoids modern technology because of EHS.
There’s even a group, ElectroSensitivity UK, for those sensitised by electromagnetic fields and radiation and who want support or information.
Despite four per cent of the UK population having reported unpleasant symptoms due to EMF, it remains a condition which has scientists divided.
 |
| The validity of EHS is called in to question by some scientists |
The majority of studies indicate EHS individuals can’t detect electro-magnetic field exposure any more accurately than non-sufferers.
Some symptoms may also arise from environmental factors unrelated to electromagnetic fields, such as the flicker from fluorescent lights.
But the World Health Organisation does acknowledge the condition.
They say symptoms most commonly experienced include dermatological symptoms - redness, tingling and burning sensations - as well as, fatigue, tiredness, concentration difficulties, dizziness, nausea, heart palpitation and digestive disturbances.
 |
| Symptoms of Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS) include a lack of concentration |
The organisation also say that there are some indications that these symptoms may be due to pre-existing psychiatric conditions and stress reactions, as a result of worrying about the electromagnetic field effects, rather than the exposure itself.
Even though studies point to the idea that EHS isn’t directly caused by electromagnetic fields, the symptoms - whatever they’re caused by - are very real to those suffering.
EHS sufferers are advised to seek a medical and psychological evaluation, in order to identify and then reduce symptoms.
As well as an assessment of the workplace and home for factors that might present symptoms - think excessive noise, poor lighting (flickering bright lights) or indoor air pollution.
Support groups are also a recommended tool for helping EHS sufferers.
Post a Comment Blogger Facebook Disqus