The Hidden Struggles of Living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity MCS remains widely misunderstood — leaving those affected struggling for recognition and support.

By Kathleen Wallace

Kathleen Wallace I used to run a successful company. I lost my home, my business and my family life because of Lyme disease and multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS).

In many ways, MCS has been my hardest challenge.

MCS is a medical condition characterized by adverse health effects from exposure to common chemicals and pollutants. These can come from items like pesticides, new carpet, paint, renovation materials, diesel exhaust, cleaning supplies, perfume, scented laundry products and air fresheners.

MCS is the pure definition of invisible illnessThe symptoms of MCS are diverse and unique to each person, ranging from mild to life threatening. They can include headaches, trouble concentrating, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, and seizures.

Living with MCS significantly degrades your quality of life. Access to healthcare can be difficult, since we have to tolerate hospital and office air, which can cause us to react badly.

We lose the ability to use public transportation, public housing or hotels. We are unable to participate in many community activities. The social impact is gruesome…….Join or login below to continue reading.

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