Sick Building Syndrome (cont.)In this Article
How Is MCS Diagnosed and Treated?There are no reliable established tests to help diagnose MCS and there are no effective or proven treatments. It is also unknown whether MCS can be prevented. Some doctors prescribe antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Celexa, Luvox, Paxil, and Prozac. Other people find that medicines for anxiety and sleep help. Treating specific symptoms -- such as headaches -- may also have a benefit. People often find solutions on their own. Some learn from experience that certain foods or chemicals seem to make their symptoms worse. Avoiding those chemicals or foods may help. Yet extremely restrictive diets, rigorously avoiding exposure to allergens and pollutants, or quitting a job can impose serious burdens on your life. MCS and Working With a DoctorPeople with these symptoms are often terribly distressed and desperate to find relief. There are no proven ways to determine or treat this illness. Before you spend time and money getting specialized treatment -- or working with an environmental contractor renovating your house to remove possible triggers -- consider that we don't have good evidence that these approaches have medical benefits. Unproven treatments always have the potential to do more harm than good. You need to work with a doctor whom you trust. Both you and your doctor should be cautious but keep an open mind about all the possible causes of your symptoms and the many possible treatments. Working together, you can find a safe way to get relief from your symptoms. WebMD Medical Reference SOURCES: Last Editorial Review: 6/3/2011 © 2005-2013 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved. |
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