Environmental Health Association of Alberta

About Us:

What is the Environmental Health Association of Alberta (EHA-AB)?

We are a non-profit environmental health organization with an object to promote education and information on environmental sensitivities and environmentally induced illnesses. We provide resources and support to those persons or institutions affected or interested. We also strive to raise awareness within medical communities, educational institutions and the general public. Our goal is to prevent further cases of environmental illness from occurring. Our hope is to assist our members in making healthier choices in:

personal care products
home care products
housing
construction materials
lawn and yard care products

What are Environmental Illnesses (EI)?

Environmental Illnesses (EI) are characterized by sensitivity to environmental triggers. Reactions can occur at extremely low levels. Initial sensitization can result from one large or several small exposures. Symptoms are reported in all body systems and vary from person to person.

Skin problems may include rashes, lesions and inflammation.
Breathing problems can include shortness of breath, asthma and cough.
Aching and swollen joints, gastro-intestinal problems, rapid heart beat, headaches and fatigue are common.
Nervous system symptoms may include tingling, numbness, and CNS symptoms.
Brain symptoms can include disorientation, cloudy thinking, seizures and mood swings.

Some Common Environmental Triggers are found in everyday consumer products including:

Cleaning and personal products
Scented laundry products
Plastics/Products from petrochemicals
Paints, solvents, adhesives
Pesticides and lawn chemicals
Scented products, perfume, cologne
Car exhaust
New building materials

Some people are also sensitive to noise, fluorescent lighting, food, electro-magnetic fields and moulds.

The Effects of Environmental Sensitivities range from mild to debilitating. Most people with Environmental Illnesses will have to change their daily activities to avoid triggers and cope. This in turn affects family life, friendships and careers. Most will require accommodations from family, friends and employers who also need to change their daily activities. Public places can be hazardous due to fragrance, electro-magnetic fields, pesticides and other triggers so common in today's environment. Disability insurance, safe housing and public spaces, health care and workplace safety are some major challenges faced by those with Environmental Illnesses.

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DISCLAIMER:

EHA-AB provides information on a wide range of health related topics. While due diligence in collecting and reporting the information was followed, EHA-AB does not warrant the accuracy or potential benefit of such information. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, the naming of an individual, organization, product or therapy on this site does not imply endorsement by the EHA-AB. Sensitive individuals and the general public may or may not respond well to particular products or procedures and EHA-AB encourages reader awareness and discernment. The information contained herein is not intended to substitute for medical or legal advice or services.