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Which advice would you give to someone who has just been diagnosed with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity?

See some advice from people with experience in Multiple Chemical Sensitivity to people who have just been diagnosed with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity advice

Advice for Coping with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity


Receiving a diagnosis of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) can be overwhelming and challenging to navigate. MCS is a condition in which individuals experience adverse reactions to various chemicals found in everyday products and environments. While there is no cure for MCS, there are strategies and lifestyle changes that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are some important pieces of advice to consider:



1. Educate Yourself


Take the time to learn about MCS, its triggers, and potential coping mechanisms. Understanding the condition will empower you to make informed decisions and communicate your needs effectively. Research reputable sources, consult medical professionals, and connect with support groups or online communities to gain valuable insights and experiences from others facing similar challenges.



2. Identify and Avoid Triggers


Identifying and avoiding triggers is crucial in managing MCS symptoms. Keep a detailed journal to track your reactions and identify patterns. This will help you pinpoint specific chemicals or environments that trigger your symptoms. Once identified, take proactive steps to minimize exposure to these triggers. This may involve using fragrance-free products, avoiding certain foods, implementing air purifiers, or creating a safe and chemical-free living space.



3. Create a Safe Haven


Designate a safe haven within your home where you can retreat and find relief from chemical exposures. This space should be free from potential triggers, such as strong cleaning agents, synthetic fragrances, or mold. Consider using natural and non-toxic materials for furniture, bedding, and cleaning products. Maintaining good indoor air quality and proper ventilation is also essential.



4. Communicate Your Needs


Openly communicate your condition and needs to your family, friends, and coworkers. Explain the nature of MCS and the importance of avoiding certain chemicals or environments that trigger your symptoms. Request their understanding, support, and cooperation in creating a safe and accommodating environment. Educating those around you will foster empathy and help prevent unintentional exposures.



5. Practice Self-Care


Managing MCS can be emotionally and physically draining, so it's crucial to prioritize self-care. Take time for relaxation and stress reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help distract from the challenges of living with MCS. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.



6. Seek Professional Support


Consider seeking support from healthcare professionals who specialize in environmental medicine or MCS. They can provide guidance on treatment options, symptom management, and strategies for improving your overall well-being. Additionally, therapists or counselors can help you navigate the emotional impact of living with a chronic condition and provide coping mechanisms for any anxiety or depression that may arise.



7. Connect with Others


Connecting with others who share similar experiences can be immensely beneficial. Seek out local support groups or online communities where you can share your challenges, exchange advice, and find emotional support. Engaging with others who understand your journey can provide a sense of belonging and help you feel less isolated.



8. Stay Positive and Patient


Living with MCS can be frustrating and challenging at times, but it's important to maintain a positive mindset and be patient with yourself. Healing and adapting to a new lifestyle takes time. Celebrate small victories, focus on what you can control, and be kind to yourself during setbacks. Surround yourself with a support system that uplifts and encourages you on your journey.



Remember, everyone's experience with MCS is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's essential to find a personalized approach that suits your specific needs and preferences. With time, patience, and the right strategies, it is possible to manage MCS and lead a fulfilling life.


Diseasemaps
29 answers
It is not the end of the world!

Posted Mar 30, 2017 by KilkennyGirl 1000
DO NOT think you are alone. DO NOT think this is a death sentence. DO find support groups and like-minded companies that cater to the MCS community

Posted Oct 9, 2017 by Andrew 1300
To someone diagnosed with MCS, I would say be patient and stay connected.

Posted Oct 24, 2017 by Paul 3000
Breathe! This is not a death sentence! You can do this! Start by eliminating toxins from your diet and environment. Learn all that you can. Knowledge is power.

Posted Oct 27, 2017 by JLMcK 5550
I recommend that anyone with MCS do DNRS even if you don't want to.

Posted Oct 28, 2017 by Katya 1042
It seems impossible to live with it at first, but there are lots of people who have learned to live with it, it gets better. Don't lose hope.

Posted Apr 12, 2018 by needinfo&help 1500
Do your best to avoid exposures.

Posted Jan 6, 2019 by Cindi 3050
When I was first experiencing symptoms I had no one to consult with. Because it was a new condition in the sense there is little medical help available to me I was worried that I was crazy. You are not crazy. Your symptoms are real. Connecting the cause to the effect can be challenging as it can be many hours after exposure to a toxin that symptoms occur. Document the symptoms and learn what your triggers are.

Posted Mar 26, 2019 by Sharon 1300
You're not going to die of it!

Posted Apr 1, 2019 by Susan 2500
Throw out ALL of the scented stuff that you have. Avoid shaking hands. Buy your own laundry machines.

Posted Apr 9, 2019 by MCSzombie 6220
Stay away from harsh scents. Do research and learn what works for you, what doesn't. Seek support.

Posted Jun 4, 2019 by Heather 3000
Keep safe, listen to your body, don’t ignore your symptoms, keep a journal of your reactions, your triggers, everything. Request a copy of your discharge letters after every treatment, file it under ‘what to take to every appointment’ Make changes that suit you, not anyone else, don’t react to negativity, it breeds resentment, which can turn inward, you can change your condition with good management but you can’t change people’s opinions.

Posted Aug 22, 2019 by Carmen Rosemarie 2550
Clear your world of toxins: Molds, fragrance, petrol, cigarettes and even toxic people. Sleep outside if yopu must, but do not continue with the triggers, before you try to heal.

Posted Nov 18, 2019 by Angie P. 5000
Do not keep doing the same things; you need to stop, think, and protect yourself from further exposure.

Posted Dec 12, 2019 by Joanna 6200
Educate yourself as much as you can regarding personal care products and detergents; not just cleaning supplies.

Posted Jan 24, 2020 by Tiffani 1300
Find your knees and pray. GOD definately is they key to survival of this disease! Find the trigger of your MSC and eliminate ALL things that trigger it! Make rules to keep for friends and family! Stick by your rules!

Posted Jan 30, 2020 by Noeleen 2500
See “how to live with MCS” question above.

You must cleanup your home and diet and try to avoid exposure to anything that will cause a reaction. Know that it is not not the end of the world and you are not alone.

Posted Feb 11, 2020 by Rheama 1600
Eat healthy organic food
Replace all the toxins in your home with safe alternatives
Get as much fresh air as possible
Invest in a good air cleaner
Invest in a good water filter

Posted Mar 31, 2020 by Judie 1860
"Just getting diagnosed" is rarely a surprise.
I find that doctors don't volunteer this diagnostic.
Patients usually fight for it.

Posted Sep 27, 2020 by Rebecca St. Martin 3570
Take it slowly. For now, pick justv1 or 2 things to change- dont try changing everything at once.

Posted Nov 12, 2020 by shelley 3650
If you are newly diagnosed, STOP EATING SUGAR OR CARBS! They will make the chemicals worse and you will become more sensitive to more things. I did not believe the literature. I did not believe someone could have this illness. In the first few months, I didn't listen to the doctors who told me not to eat sugar. I was only sensitive to cigarette smoke in the beginning. I don't know what would have happened had I stopped eating sugar. I'll never know. Now I am sensitive to everything. Believe the stories people tell you about MCS. It is real and it exists. Sugar makes it worse in every way for me. Carbs also aren't good.

Posted Feb 21, 2021 by Christi 2350
Get support from others who have mcs and avoid contact w triggers. Work a brain retraining program.

Posted Jul 24, 2021 by Serenity 2500
Remove all fragrances (perfume/cologne/aftershave, air "fresheners", deodorants, lotions, soaps, body sprays, scented laundry products, shaving creams, etc.) and all toxic cleaning products from your home immediately. Check your house for mold and have it remediated if it is found. If you smoke, quit. Begin an organic, whole foods diet free of additives.

Posted Nov 11, 2021 by kola05 2620
You are not alone. There are thousands of people like us.

It is very hard for people to understand you, and that's ok.

You will find a way. Just avoid chemicals, processed foods, large. gatherings were you expect people to use a lot of perfume.

Try to move to a beach where you can feel better. I've found that I do best in tropical climates.

Posted Nov 3, 2022 by Eduardo 1700
Translated from spanish Improve translation
DO NOT FALL INTO THE HANDS OF PSEUDOMÉDICOS OR ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES, WHICH SELL IT IMPOSSIBLE REMEDIES
ACCEPT THAT THERE IS NO TREATMENT
MEDICAL ADVICE AND OF ANY ASSOCIATION OF SQM.

Posted May 10, 2017 by Emilio 2070
Translated from spanish Improve translation
that life is not just,a lot of patience everything will go on stabilizing and getting to know the disease you will be able to take it better,avoid toxic from the very first moment you find out to not get worse

Posted Jun 11, 2017 by Esther 1950
Translated from spanish Improve translation
Don't be scared off. To remove the fear. Stop face to those who don't believe etc etc That is the/ it same and of all the enrgia the spent in the and their cure. Care, expand the power of your thoughts and take care of your alimetacion, cosmetic, household products and go to live in a rural area ecological.

Posted Sep 9, 2017 by Karma 1900
Translated from spanish Improve translation
Think not just the world. Obviously you have to change many things (food, hygiene products and cleaning), things that are no longer be able to do, but life goes on. And don't think that this ever going to go to more. A lot of people with MCS is very negative and tells you that you are going to get worse, but don't have a crystal ball, and some get worse does not mean you have to be always so. I also know of cases where people are stabilized at a moderate level from decades ago. There are even people who say they have improved a lot. So to take care of and is already.

Posted Sep 10, 2017 by Pilar 2000

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