2.1 Definition

Electromagnetic hypersensitivity, called also electro sensitivity or electro hypersensitivity is a disorder in which a person presents symptoms of a sickness caused or aggravated by magnetic fields or waves. These symptoms are recognized by the WHO and by numerous scientific studies (ref. Bioinitiative Report). Here is the WHO’S definition:

“For some time, numerous individuals complained of diverse health problems attributed to exposure to electromagnetic fields. While certain individuals report mild symptoms and are able to avoid these fields, others are so gravely affected that it becomes necessary to stop working and to modify their lifestyle totally. This sensitivity is presumed to be from electromagnetic fields and is generally called electromagnetic sensitivity (EMS).”

The sources of these symptoms can be multiple: computer monitors, antennas, high tension wires, electric transformers or mobile telephones. The proportion of individuals who suffer from electro sensitivity varies; certain studies indicate 8% of the population interviewed. Each case of electro sensitivity is unique; also, the symptoms and their gravity vary from one person to another.

2.2 Symptoms

2.2.1 Symptoms described by the patients:

Neurological symptoms : headache, vertigo, nausea, difficulty concentrating, loss in memory, irritability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, weakness, muscle spasms, change in reflex reaction, sore joints, leg pain, fever, as well as more severe symptoms causing paralysis or psychosis.

Cardiac symptoms: palpitations, arrhythmia, chest pain, change in blood pressure, change in cardiac rhythm, shortness of breath.

Respiratory symptoms: sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma.

Dermatological symptoms: redness, itchiness, burning sensations.

Ophthalmological symptoms: pain and burning sensations, deterioration of vision, cataracts.

Other symptoms : digestive problems, abdominal pain, thyroid problem, pain in the ovaries or the testicles, dryness of the mouth, the tongue or the eyes, extreme thirst, dehydration, nosebleeds, bleeding, change in sugar level, immunity problems, loss of hair, tooth pain, deterioration of the senses, loss of the sense of smell, ringing in the ears.