Question from S
Hi Debra, Is it possible to be tested to see if one is sensitive to gas heat? If so where and how? I have mcs and we have gas heat, however, that is something that is not easily changed. Thanks s
Debra’s Answer
I don’t know where one can get tested for sensitivity to gas heat, but I can tell you from my experience that often people with MCS who have gas heat don’t recover until they stop using the gas heat. I’ve seen this many times. It’s a big thing to change, so people put it off, but it seems to be a big contributor to MCS, from my observation.
Do you feel better in the summertime, when you are not using the heat?
I live in an older home with a newer gas furnace. It bothers me every winter. Makes me dry and dizzy at times. I survive by opening windows and letting in fresh air when it is not freezing out. I notice that in Feb when it is the worst my eyes also get very red and sore. I had them come check it out several times because I suspected carbon monizide but so far no findings. When I move I will be looking for electric. I also have a gas stove that I have to open the entire kitchen to cook on or I get headaches and vertigo.
Debra, what about hot water radiators (and hot water heater) heated by a furnace (so no forced air)? We are renters living in a city where the majority of rental duplex units are heated by this method.
I’ve used these in the past. There’s no problem with the water, but new heaters will often offgas fumes from the paint until it is completely cured. I have an electric oil-filled radiator heater. I had to run it elsewhere for about a year before the fumes stopped, but now it’s great.