CHEMICAL-SENSITIVITY AFTER INTOXICATION AT WORK WITH SOLVENTS - RESPONSE TO SAUNA THERAPY

Objectives: The purpose of this case study is twofold. One, to illustr ate a simple method of detoxification using heat chamber depuration (s auna). Second, to raise awareness in the practice of medicine of the i mportance of taking an environmentally oriented history. Subject: A pa tient with a chronic, debilitating multisystem disorder of 20-years' d uration related to a chemical sensitivity resulting from low-level exp osure to toxic chemicals (solvents) at work. Interventions: Detoxifica tion treatment consisted of heat chamber depuration (sauna) together w ith a specific protocol of oral and intravenous therapy. Appropriate a dvice was offered related to choosing a safe and suitable workplace. O utcome Measures: Observation of the dynamic interaction and eliminatio n of chlorinated and aromatic hydrocarbons (solvents) from the patient 's bloodstream and related clinical improvement during the course of t reatment. Results: The patient was able to discontinue, without ill ef fect, all medications previously prescribed to treat her symptoms. Hea t chamber depuration (sauna) detoxification treatment brought substant ial release of symptoms and returned the individual to gainful employm ent. Conclusion: The connection between symptoms of chronic degenerati ve diseases and environmental and/or nutritional factors is missed in many cases due to lack of obtaining an environmentally oriented medica l history. Taking such a history and dealing with the cause of illness using avoidance and/or appropriate therapy is preventive and cost-eff ective for both the patient and society.