Environmental sensitivities: Prevalence of major symptoms in a referral center: The Nova Scotia Environmental Sensitivities Research Center Study

Although the phenomenon of environmental sensitivities (ES) has no clear et iology nor well-accepted pathophysiology, affected individuals experience s ymptoms that cause varying levels of dysfunction. Through a dedicated, gove rnment-funded research acid treatment center, a derailed questionnaire cove ring 217 symptoms in 13 systems was mailed in 1997-1998 to 812 individuals referred to the center by physicians. A total of 385 (47%) questionnaires w ere returned, and data were analyzed on 351 individuals. Participants tende d to be women (80%), middle-aged individuals (37% age 40-49 years), and tho se in higher educational groups (28% completed university), but there was w ide variation in demographic variables. General symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, fatigue, forgetfulness, and irritability dominated the over all prevalence of symptoms since the start of their illness. Those related to irritation such as sneezing, itchy or burning eyes, and hoarseness or lo ss of voice were more common after exposure to environmental irritants. Ran king of symptoms using severity scores was consistent between men and women . Overall scores were higher in women, in participants who were separated o r divorced, and in low-income groups. The type and consistency of symptoms experienced after exposure to triggering substances may not fit a purely ps ychogenic theory.