Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) FAQ

What is multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS)? MCS is a broad term that describes a condition where people develop allergic reactions to their environment. MCS is also referred to as environmental illness or multiple allergic response syndrome (MARS). Like allergy sufferers, MCS sufferers react to substances that apparently don't bother other people; however, in the case of MCS, the triggers are not necessarily traditional allergens; often, the triggers are known toxic chemicals. What triggers MCS? Substances that can trigger an MCS attack include solvents, pesticides, plastics, paints, new carpets, adhesives, perfumes, air fresheners, clothing and bedding, personal care products, and cleaning products. It is believed that MCS afflicts people who have weakened immune systems or overloaded immune systems. What are common symptoms of MCS? MCS can cause dizziness, nausea, memory problems, breathing difficulties, flu-like symptoms, rashes, and hives.

Why do some people get sick from the smell of a new car?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and other toxic chemicals constitute the new car smell. VOC fumes emanate from glues, paints, vinyls, and plastics inside new cars. They can trigger headaches, sore throats, nausea, breathing difficulty, and drowsiness. Studies have found 50-60 different VOCs in new cars. An Amaircare Roomaid portable air purifier with a VOC filter will help you avoid VOC sickness in your car.

The Royal-Pedic Organic Cotton Mattress and the Royal-Pedic Organic Natural Latex Mattress are both made with 100% organic cotton from Peru, and they're custom built without formaldehyde, glue, dye, resin, polyurethane foam, or synthetic latex. These mattresses are perfect for people who are sensitive to petrochemical emissions from chemically treated fibers.

The AllerAir MCS series air purifiers were designed specifically for people with MCS. Not only do these machines remove irritants and chemical vapors from the air, but they're also manufactured with inert materials to ensure that the air purifier itself does not off-gas VOCs or other harmful chemicals. IQAir GC series air purifiers are also great for MCS sufferers; they effectively control VOCs, tobacco smoke, ammonia, and other chemicals and odors.

Unfortunately, you can't take an air purifier with you everywhere you go. Many MCS sufferers carry an I Can Breathe Honeycomb Mask with them everywhere they go, just in case they find themselves among irritating fumes. An activated carbon filter inside the mask traps pollutants like fragrances, particles, soot, smog, dust, fumes, and formaldehyde.

Most MCS sufferers prefer natural cleaning methods over harsh chemicals. Vapor steam cleaners, for instance, kill dust mites, mold, bacteria, and germs with the power of steam. High Tech Dust Cloths are made from electrostatic material, so they capture dust without the need for chemical dusting spray. The Dust Control Sponge also works very well without water or chemicals.

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