In this Article

• What is multiple chemical sensitivity (sick building syndrome)?
• Is multiple chemical sensitivity (sick building syndrome) a real disorder?
• What are the symptoms of multiple chemical sensitivity (sick building syndrome)?
• How common is multiple chemical sensitivity (sick building syndrome)?
• What causes multiple chemical sensitivity (sick building syndrome)?
• How is multiple chemical sensitivity (sick building syndrome) diagnosed?
• How is multiple chemical sensitivity (sick building syndrome) treated?
• Can multiple chemical sensitivity (sick building syndrome) be prevented?
• Sick Building Syndrome Glossary
• Sick Building Syndrome Index

How Is MCS Diagnosed?

There are no tests to diagnose MCS. A doctor generally bases his or her diagnosis on the person's description of symptoms, usually following a complete medical history and physical examination. The doctor may use diagnostic tests, such as X-rays and blood tests, to rule out true allergies and other physical or mental health disorders as the cause of the symptoms.

How Is MCS Treated?

Approaches to treatment vary. Most healthcare providers recommend avoiding the chemicals or foods that seem to trigger reactions. Some providers refer people with MCS to psychiatrists or psychologists, mental health professionals specially trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders.

In most cases, the best course of action is for the person to stay in regular contact with a trusted healthcare provider. Within this doctor-patient relationship, the doctor can monitor the symptoms and stay alert to any changes. The doctor's main approach is likely to focus on reassuring and supporting the person, and preventing unnecessary tests and treatments. It may be necessary, however, to treat some of the symptoms, such as headaches or pain.

Can MCS Be Prevented?

Because little is known about the cause of MCS symptoms, it is not known if the disorder can be prevented.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine.
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, Feb. 2004, WebMD.

Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2004

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