Psychiatric Symptoms in Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

Abstract

Neuropsychiatric symptoms are among the most prominent manifestations of generalized chemical sensitivity. Patients, clinicians, and researchers are in agreement that symptoms such as depression, irritability, and mood instability are prominent among the distressing and disabling symptoms occurring in response to low-level chemical exposure. Beyond that point, however, agreement is difficult. The pathophysiology and clinical management of these symptoms remain quite controversial.

This paper will review available data on the prevalence and form of psychiatric symptoms among those suffering from multiple chemical sensitivity. Various models explaining the relationship of psychiatric symptoms to chemical sensitivity will be discussed. Finally, the implications of these models for clinical management and future research will be reviewed.

Keywords

chemical sensitivity envioronmental illness pathophysiology psychiatric

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