An idiographic approach to Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance attributed to Electromagnetic Fields (IEI- EMF) Part II. Ecological momentary assessment of three individuals with severe IEI-EMF

Abstract

Overview

Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance attributed to Electromagnetic Fields (IEI-EMF) involves self-reported sensitivity with non-specific physical symptoms associated with exposure to weak EMFs. Despite lack of broad empirical support linking EMF and IEI-EMF, methodological limitations exist in prior studies. This research employs a biopsychosocial approach, utilizing ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to explore the temporal relationship between radio frequency (RF) EMF exposure and IEI-EMF symptoms on an individual basis.

Methodology

For 21 days, three participants with severe IEI-EMF underwent:

• Continuous monitoring of autonomic variables via holter electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Ambient RF EMF measurement using personal dosimeters
• Repeated assessments (8/day) of momentary internal states and situational factors through paper-and-pencil

Findings

Time series analyses were used to examine temporal relationships. For two participants, there was no support for the association between EMF frequency range(s) and symptom reports. However, a reverse association was observed with GSM900 downlink, contrary to IEI-EMF expectations. Results for the third participant showed partial support for both symptom reports and autonomic reactions (UMTS downlink, total RF).

Conclusion

The study suggests that IEI-EMF does not have a uniform cause. While some individuals may have a biophysical association, others do not show such an underlying factor. EMA is presented as a valuable tool to investigate the aetiology of IEI-EMF.