Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity: Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions

Are you struggling with electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS)? Neuroplasticity may be able to help!

Magnetic fields of different intensities are all around us, generated naturally and synthetically. In today’s technology-driven world, we are constantly exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMF) of varying strength from many different sources – mobile phones and base stations, Wi-Fi routers, many household appliances, compact fluorescent and halogen light bulbs, power lines and transformers, and smart meters.

Electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), also known as electromagnetic sensitivity or electrohypersensitivity, is a condition caused by chronic exposure to electric, magnetic, wireless, radio, or ionizing radiation. A somewhat complex and controversial phenomenon, EHS was first proposed in 1991 in the Journal of Bioelectricity by William Rea to identify the clinical condition of patients reporting health effects while being exposed to electromagnetic fields.¹ This tendency of experiencing unpleasant symptoms in the proximity of working electrical devices is also catchily called idiopathic environmental intolerance attributed to electromagnetic fields (IEI-EMF).

In this article, we’ll explore EHS, the potential impacts of EMF exposure, and actionable steps to minimize it. Additionally, we’ll look at how the re-origin program can support those experiencing EHS symptoms. With its neuroplasticity-based approach, re-origin empowers you to retrain your brain’s response to environmental triggers like EMFs, promoting resilience and reducing symptom severity over time.

Is electromagnetic hypersensitivity real?

The field of electromagnetic radiation is far from a novel concept. A 2022 paper in Reviews on Environmental Health notes that most of us are routinely exposed to extremely low-frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) and radiofrequency (RF) without even realizing it.² However, that’s not the case for everyone.

The paper reminds us of the ‘microwave syndrome,’ which first originated in the 1970s when Soviet workers exposed to radar and radio equipment reported symptoms like fatigue, headaches, dizziness, sleep disruption, and memory issues. In the 1980s, Swedish workers who spent long hours in front of cathode ray tube monitors experienced similar symptoms. In 2013, the Finnish workforce reported issues they attributed to EMF from personal computers and mobile phones.³

Although these symptoms are recognized, they lack an official classification under the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), contributing to the ongoing debate around what we now call Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS).

Today, EHS has no universally accepted diagnostic criteria. Healthnews points out that research has not definitively linked EMF exposure to EHS symptoms.⁴ However, the absence of an official categorization doesn’t mean electromagnetic field exposure has no impact on individuals.

Commentary by Michael Bevington⁵ in Reviews on Environmental Health cites research⁶ by Dariusz Leszczynski, Adjunct Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Helsinki, asserting there is “proof of EHS beyond all reasonable doubt.” Bevington calls for organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), The International Conference on Environmental Systems (ICES), and governmental organizations to reconsider their stance on EHS, as current evidence isn’t strong enough to rule out a link. He emphasizes that research should shift from focusing on a potential nocebo effect (when negative expectations of the patient regarding a treatment cause the treatment to have a more negative effect than it otherwise would have) to identifying biochemical and biophysical markers specific to EHS symptoms.

Supporting this view, a 2020 study in The International Journal of Molecular Sciences presented evidence that EMF sensitivity could be a well-defined neurological disorder. The study urged the WHO to consider EHS as a significant public health concern.⁷

Is electromagnetic sensitivity mental?

The WHO has defined EHS as a condition defined by the attribution of non-specific symptoms to human-caused electromagnetic fields (EMF) that are medically unexplained and has recognized it as a real and sometimes debilitating problem for sufferers. While it is not considered a mental illness, EHS is a neurological disorder and is increasingly recognized as a health problem by governments. Canada and Sweden, for example, now consider EHS as a disability.

Given the neurological classification of EHS, one option to help manage this is to explore re-origin’s self-directed, science-based neuroplasticity program. The program combines the latest in neuroscience research with personalized, practical solutions to provide an understanding of how we can retrain our brains to overcome related symptoms such as chronic fatigue, brain fog, disturbed sleep, and more.

What is the difference between electromagnetic hypersensitivity and electromagnetic sensitivity?

The terms “electromagnetic hypersensitivity” (EHS) and “electromagnetic sensitivity” are often used interchangeably, and there is no universally agreed-upon distinction between the two. Both are considered idiopathic environmental intolerance (IEI), which are medical syndromes with no proven cause.

The primary difference between the terms might be in their connotations or the emphasis placed on the severity or nature of the symptoms:

1. Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS): This term implies that individuals are highly sensitive or hypersensitive to electric and magnetic fields. It may suggest a more severe or pronounced reaction to EMFs.
2. Electromagnetic Sensitivity: This term is more general and does not necessarily imply extreme sensitivity. It encompasses a broader range of experiences related to symptoms attributed to EMF exposure.

Both terms, however, are used to describe the same phenomenon in which individuals believe they experience adverse health effects due to EMF exposure. The symptoms reported by individuals with EHS or electromagnetic sensitivity vary widely, and the causes, whether physical, psychological, or a combination, are the subject of ongoing research.

Idiopathic Environmental Intolerances (IEI)

Idiopathic Environmental Intolerances (IEI) are conditions in which individuals experience non-specific symptoms in response to environmental factors like chemicals, scents, or electromagnetic fields (EMFs). When related specifically to EMFs, this condition is termed IEI-EMF. Being medically unexplained, medical evaluation and diagnosis are difficult. IEI-EMF symptoms may include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties, sometimes so severe that it can be a disabling problem. Research suggests that these symptoms could be due to a hypersensitivity of the central nervous system. Addressing IEI often involves managing stress and using techniques such as neuroplasticity to retrain the brain’s response to perceived environmental triggers.

When does electromagnetic hypersensitivity occur?

As with other types of idiopathic environmental intolerance, the symptoms experienced by individuals who report EHS can have both physical and psychological components. Individuals with sensory processing sensitivity may be prone to electromagnetic sensitivity, experiencing intolerance to both non-ionizing and ionizing radiation. Non-ionizing radiation,⁸ found in power lines and cell phones, has longer wavelengths that can penetrate living tissue without removing electrons, which are necessary for cellular function. In contrast, ionizing radiation, like gamma rays and X-rays, produces higher EMF frequencies with shorter wavelengths, directly damaging DNA. While both EMFs can pose health problems, non-ionizing frequencies are generally less harmful than ionizing ones.

EHS symptoms can manifest in various ways, both physically and psychologically. Physiological effects can range from common issues like headaches and nausea to more severe conditions such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.⁹ People with EMF may also exhibit behavioral responses, such as completely avoiding personal electronic devices and steering clear of high-EMF environments like public transportation systems and shopping malls. Some individuals even resort to extreme measures to avoid electromagnetic fields and their health implications, such as retreating to live in remote areas.

Reactivity to EMF can be triggered by virtually any human activity involving electricity or wireless technologies, encompassing a significant portion of our daily lives. As a result, the widespread prevalence of this condition and its potential to provoke adverse reactions can profoundly impact the well-being of those affected.

The symptoms of EHS usually occur immediately or shortly after exposure to EMFs. They can vary from person to person but can include the following:

•   Headaches
•   Skin conditions/rashes
•   Fatigue/sleep disturbances
•   Dizziness
•   Nausea/vomiting
•   Body pain/Musculoskeletal pain
•   Tingling or numbness
•   Memory and concentration problems
•   Anxiety and mood disorders
•   Depression
•   Tinnitus
•   Heart arrhythmia

We have to factor in that there may be a psychological component when some individuals attribute their symptoms solely to EMF exposure, including anxiety, stress, and a preoccupied belief that EMFs are causing their health issues. Symptoms may be psychosomatic, meaning they can also be rooted in psychological factors rather than a direct physical cause.

Why are people with electromagnetic hypersensitivity sensitive to electromagnetism?

As individuals, we all have different sensitivities, often driven by biological and environmental factors, whether food preferences, hot and cold, touch, or even allergies. It’s logical, therefore, to conclude that people can also experience electromagnetic hypersensitivity to differing degrees.

Certain individuals may simply possess a heightened perception or awareness of EMFs not present in the general population. This heightened perception might make them more likely to report EHS symptoms when exposed to EMFs. Biological mechanisms, such as changes in the nervous system or immune system, could underlie EHS.

One thing for sure is that while some individuals may genuinely experience discomfort or distress that they attribute to EMFs, the current state of scientific knowledge does not provide a definitive explanation for why this occurs.

An Environmental Illness

An environmental illness occurs when exposure to certain environmental agents—such as chemicals, pollutants, or electromagnetic fields (EMFs)—triggers physical health symptoms in individuals. These conditions are believed to arise when the body reacts negatively to environmental factors that are typically harmless to most people. EMF sensitivity reflects the complex interaction between external environmental factors and the body’s response, highlighting the importance of addressing these triggers for improved health.

What is the best way to avoid EMF exposure and EHS symptoms?

Minimizing exposure to EMFs is the most common-sense approach to avoiding EHS symptoms. That’s not easy in today’s world, but here are some general steps you can take:

1. Reduce EMF Exposure: Ensure exposure limits to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) by minimizing the use of wireless devices and electronics. Use wired connections for whenever possible for internet access, and keep your distance from sources of EMFs like cell phone towers and power lines.
2. Create EMF-Free Zones: Designate areas in your home or workspace where EMF exposure is minimized. This can be done by turning off Wi-Fi routers at night, using shielding materials to block EMF, or simply keeping certain areas technology-free.
3. Use EMF-Shielding Products: Some individuals with EHS find relief by using EMF-shielding products, such as specialized clothing, bed canopies, or shielding paint, to reduce exposure.
4. Reduce Wireless Device Use: Reduce reliance on wireless devices like smartphones and tablets. Opt for wired headphones, use airplane mode, and avoid carrying your phone directly against your body.
5. Practice Good Sleep Hygiene: Ensure your sleeping environment is free from EMF sources. Turn off electronics in the bedroom and consider using shielding materials to create an EMF-free sleeping area.
6. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest research on EHS. While it’s a contested condition, understanding both sides of the debate can help you make informed decisions about managing your exposure to EMFs. It’s important to note that the scientific consensus on EHS is that it is not well-established, and many studies have not found a clear link between EMF exposure and the reported symptoms. Therefore, it’s essential to approach the condition with an open mind and consult with healthcare professionals for a comprehensive assessment of your health and symptoms.
7. Medical Device EMF Emissions: Exercise caution regarding medical and healthcare devices and therapies that emit or involve EMF. For example, limit X-ray exposure to what’s medically required.
8. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you believe you have EHS, consult a healthcare professional to rule out other potential medical conditions and receive guidance on managing your symptoms.

Address EHS symptoms with re-origin

Finally, we suggest exploring re-origin’s self-directed neuroplasticity program, which can help reduce symptoms if you struggle with hypersensitivities such as EHS and multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS), Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), anxiety, and more. 

Designed to help individuals with hypersensitivities, re-origin uses science-backed methods to retrain the brain’s response to triggers like EMFs. Through a step-by-step approach, the program guides you in building resilience, reducing symptom sensitivity, and creating a calmer, more balanced experience with environmental stimuli. This practice can be especially useful for managing symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, and brain fog, allowing you to regain control and improve your well-being.

Signing up for the re-origin program will enable you to literally retrain your brain to reset your system, rewire your brain, and reclaim your health and happiness.

References

1. Rea, W. J., Pan, Y., Fenyves, E. J., Sujisawa, I., Suyama, H., Samadi, N., & Ross, G. H. (1991). Electromagnetic field sensitivity. Journal of Bioelectricity, ¹⁰(1–2), 241–256. https://doi.org/10.3109/15368379109031410
2. Hardell, L., & Koppel, T. (2022). Electromagnetic hypersensitivity close to mobile phone base stations – a case study in Stockholm, Sweden. Reviews on Environmental Health, 38(2), 219–228. https://doi.org/10.1515/reveh-2021-0169
3. Hagström, M., Auranen, J., & Ekman, R. (2013). Electromagnetic hypersensitive Finns: Symptoms, perceived sources and treatments, a questionnaire study. Pathophysiology, 20(2), 117–122. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pathophys.2013.02.001
4. Kakacek, B., RN, BSN. (2024, March 14). Is Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity a Real Condition? Healthnews. https://healthnews.com/health-conditions/allergies/is-electromagnetic-hypersensitivity-a-real-condition/
5. Bevington, M. (2021). ‘Proof of EHS beyond all reasonable doubt’. Comment on: Leszczynski D. Review of the scientific evidence on the individual sensitivity to electromagnetic fields (EHS). Rev Environ Health 2021; https://doi.org/10.1515/reveh-2021-0038. Online ahead of print. Reviews on Environmental Health, 37(2), 299–301. https://doi.org/10.1515/reveh-2021-0101
6. Leszczynski, D. (2021). Review of the scientific evidence on the individual sensitivity to electromagnetic fields (EHS). Reviews on Environmental Health, 37(3), 423–450. https://doi.org/10.1515/reveh-2021-0038
7. Belpomme, D., & Irigaray, P. (2020). Electrohypersensitivity as a newly identified and characterized neurologic pathological disorder: How to Diagnose, treat, and Prevent it. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(6), 1915. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21061915
8. Electromagnetic fields and cancer. (2022, May 30). Cancer.gov. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/radiation/electromagnetic-fields-fact-sheet
9. Carpenter, D. O. (2013). Human disease resulting from exposure to electromagnetic fields1). Reviews on Environmental Health, 28(4). https://doi.org/10.1515/reveh-2013-0016