Electrical Sensitivity FAQ
From time to time, we receive phone calls from people experiencing an uncommon problem: electrical sensitivity. Unlike most human beings, these callers hear sounds produced by machines wired at 60 Hz. And that sound sensitivity results in everything from headaches to lost sleep to nausea.
The problem is, just about every machine and appliance you can think of, from your fridge to your TV to your phone, exists at 60 Hz.
While we’d love to help everyone who calls, we aren’t medical experts. And unfortunately, we don’t sell equipment for individual homes.
However, we still want to help. So, we’ve combined our expertise and some research into this uncommon topic in hopes that if you found this page, it might offer some of the help you need.
What is electromagnetic hypersensitivity?
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) as: “… characterized by a variety of non-specific symptoms, which afflicted individuals attribute to exposure to EMF,” (electromagnetic field) sources.
Though electromagnetic hypersensitivity has a page on the World Health Organization (WHO) website, hypersensitivity to electricity isn’t recognized as an official ailment. Even though it’s clear that people suffer from it.
Symptoms of electromagnetic hypersensitivity range from physical to mental, and include:
- Redness
- Tingling
- Fatigue
- Tiredness
- Concentration difficulties
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Heart palpitations
- Digestive disturbances
What are electromagnetic fields?
Electromagnetic fields (EMF) are a combination of invisible electric and magnetic fields that can be generated through natural or man-made means. Electric fields are created by voltage, with more voltage creating a stronger field.
Magnetic fields are created by the flow of electric current.
Where do electromagnetic fields come from?
It’s worth noting that the majority of people who experience electromagnetic hypersensitivity pinpoint manufactured sources as the cause of their symptoms.
Electromagnetic fields are created by:
- Power lines
- Wireless devices
- Cellphone towers
However, there are also ones created by natural sources, including:
- The sun
- The Earth
- Our bodies
How do I detect EMF?
It is sometimes possible to locate the cause of your electric sensitivity symptoms in your home. EMF can sometimes be detected in the home with the help of an EMF meter. However, it’s important to know that while EMF meters are readily available in stores and online, they don’t always detect high-frequency EMF and their accuracy can be questionable.
For example, if you have an appliance that seems to be bothering you, standing on the left side of it might not reveal any EMF—but standing on the right it of it may. What’s more, the more accurate a meter is, the more expensive it is, sometimes running into hundreds of dollars.
You can also contact your local power company and request that they perform a test for you. Because they have professional-grade equipment and experience using it, they may be better able to find EMF that you’re unable to locate.
How do I treat electromagnetic hypersensitivity?
Medical solutions
Medically, research hasn’t revealed a magic cure that reduces or eliminates the symptoms. The WHO recommends:
- Getting a medical evaluation to determine what symptoms appear to be caused by EHS.
- Determining any other psychological conditions that may be causing or magnifying the symptoms.
- Identifying any other workplace, home or environmental factors that might be causing the sensitivity.
Electrical sensitivity home treatments
Although the medical community hasn’t developed treatments for electromagnetic hypersensitivity, people who suffer from it have found some home remedies they feel are helpful:
- Limit exposure: Reducing the amount of time spent in a room with appliances that give you a headaches or other symptoms may be enough to reduce or eliminate them.
- Cover tablets and phones: Antiradiation/anti-EMF cases can be purchased at a variety of online retailers. Putting one on your device can help reduce the amount of exposure.
- Keep electronics out of the bedroom: This can be an enormous help if, for example, the “sound” of your phone keeps you awake at night.
- Eat healthy: For people who suddenly start experiencing food sensitivities, changing your diet to include healthier options may eliminate or reduce symptoms. (Please note that you should check with your doctor before making major changes to your diet.)
- Exercise: For people who experience symptoms like fatigue or headaches, getting fresh air and exercise can help reduce symptoms. (Again, consult with your doctor before starting any kind of exercise program.)
You may also be able to find an electrical noise elimination solution. While our Single Noise Interference Xterminator (SNIX) can be used with some forms of electrical equipment, we don’t offer a product designed for home use.