MCS also known by a variety of other names such as Gulf War Syndrome, Environmental Illness, 20^{th Century Syndrome, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and many other names. Label it however you like but the results are the same for many. MCS is activated by coming into contact with a chemical or substance which triggers a multitude of responses. Let us first look at common chemicals that contribute to MCS. The list is vast but common stimuli are perfume, household cleaning products, petroleum products, smoke, laundry detergents, and hair care products to name a few. These may seem like purely harmless products which most of us use daily. However, for someone with MCS this can mean something totally different. Contact, even indirect contact with these and many other substances result in disaster for someone suffering from MCS. The symptoms most commonly experienced are nausea, vomiting, extreme headaches, burning eyes, mood changes, numbness and tingling of the lips or tongue, rashes on the body, fatigue, runny nose and the list goes on and on. Those suffering many times have not experienced success with traditional treatments. This can and usually leads to feelings of hopelessness, depression, and anxiety. Many suffering are reduced to limiting contact with others and at times total isolation. Interestingly enough MCS is not taken seriously and those suffering are told often it is all in their heads. Commonly clients state that when they approach someone regarding a product they may be using they are given little or no consideration. Several law suits have developed in the past couple of years regarding workplace instances surrounding MCS. Many have resulted in a win for the person suffering with MCS.}

With this said it is important to understand today’s MCS people are only the canaries in the mines for the rest of us. Increasingly people are becoming more and more sensitive. Traditional therapies have shown to provide little or no help for the MCS person. Often times it is difficult to pinpoint the trigger(s) for the MCS person. There are no tests to confirm the existence of MCS or the individual’s triggers. Therefore the best source of information regarding signs and symptoms are supplied by the affected person. The MCS person has usually experimented and can many times advise the practitioner on what substance(s) will trigger an episode. The verdict is still out if MCS is a psychological condition or an actual reaction to the substance. Studies have shown both as possible explanations for the changes which take place in the MCS person. Either why the fact still remains the MCS person is uncomfortable and is in need of treatment. This has lead to an increase in the seeking out of complementary services to address these issues. Acupuncture is one such option and has proven to be a viable option for many. Some studies indicate that 50-70% of people seeking acupuncture treatment for MCS benefit in some fashion. Acupuncture treatments are tailored to the whole individual and not pieces and parts. The acupuncturist will conduct an interview to evaluate how MCS is affecting the individual. This information will be used as a guide in treating the symptoms and to begin detoxifying the client. The application of acupuncture has shown to stimulate the body naturally to eliminate the toxins and begin to balance the energy of the person. Acupuncture has also shown benefits in combating depression and anxiety, which is usually prevalent in those suffering from MCS. The stimulation of the body with acupuncture will release serotonin and endorphins which are feel good chemicals stored in the body.

A quick and easy way to increase your awareness on the number of chemicals and perfumed products you consume on a daily basis is to keep a log. Every product you use which is not considered unscented or fragrance free or contains chemicals you cannot recognize on the label should be placed on the list. This would include soap, shampoo, hair products (count each one), laundry detergent, fabric softener, body wash or lotions, etc. In addition take notice of the number of scented candles and air fresheners placed in and around your home and car. I think at the end the day you will be surprised at the number of fragrances you encounter in just one day. Remember most of these are not natural substances, most are synthetic chemicals. This means you are breathing in these chemicals each time you are around these items. In addition, the skin absorbs substances that we come in contact with on a daily basis. The skins ability to absorb substances easy is how more pharmaceutical products are being administered. This might make you stop and ask yourself "do I really want these everyday chemicals absorbed into my body", the answer of course is "no". We have no way of knowing the long term effects of many of these chemicals. We can only anticipate the outcome will not be positive based on how the MCS person responds today.

It is important to remember that people suffering from MCS don’t find these scents or chemicals pleasant and can have a reaction. So be respectful when in public places such as restaurants and movie theatres and use less of those things which you may find pleasant. The workplace is loaded with these chemicals and many times do not offer alternative work areas for those who suffer. This can further alienate the MCS person to the point of being unable to perform their daily work functions, often times leading to resignation of their employment, causing yet more isolation.

Interestingly enough clients suffering from autoimmune diseases also report having flare-ups when coming in contact with or prolonged exposure to these same chemicals. This may include but not limited to diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and fibromyalsia just to name a few.

If you know someone or you have MCS or an autoimmune illness consider acupuncture as a treatment option. Acupuncture cannot treat all cases but it has shown to be an option for many.

Shane Haggard, L.Ac. NCCAOM Certified Acupuncturist