Last Updated on November 27, 2021 by Surender Kumar
Electromagnetic fields are a combination of magnetic and electric fields. Classification of fields is done using frequency ranges divided into extremely low, intermediate, radio, and static. They are generated both naturally and by humans.
There are several types of EMF, including ultraviolet, radio waves, gamma rays, and X-rays. Inside your home, cell phones, microwaves, radio antennas, laptops, and televisions are the source of these fields.
However, they also pose a health risk. Several studies have been conducted to determine EMF risk levels, both in the short and long term. Here are some of those:
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Symptoms of high radiation exposure
Medical experts have identified a few symptoms that can be directly attributed to high EMF exposure. Some of them are headaches, nausea, diarrhea, coma, fatigue, loss of appetite, concentration loss, seizures, insomnia, sleep disturbances, and depression.
Research has also proven that you might experience the same symptoms despite the initial recovery after a short while.
Can they cause cancer?
Wertheimer and Leeper conducted one of the first studies to establish the link between magnetic field exposure and cancer in 1979. A lot of similar studies and research have been done since then. Some of them indicate a definite connection between high-frequency electromagnetic fields and lymphatic cancer.
The IARC has also classified RF or radio frequency fields as carcinogenic to humans. Low frequency or Lf has also been shown to penetrate the deeper tissues. They also affect various cellular functions like cell proliferation and differentiation.
Links to leukemia
Some studies have also tried to prove the link between childhood leukemia and EMF. At least nine studies made during a year reported a twofold risk for those children exposed to more than 0.4 μT, or micro Tesla (a unit used to measure magnetic flux density). That was also the case when the exposure was more than 0.3 μT.
It is interesting to know that electric technicians had a higher risk of contracting acute myeloid leukemia in the long run.
Weakening of the BBB
The blood-brain barrier(BBB) has a vital role to play in your body. It is located between the cerebral capillary blood and interstitial fluid.
One of its several responsibilities is stopping the entry of pathogens, toxins, large molecules, and neurotransmitters released in the blood from reaching the brain. Long-term exposure to devices like microwave ovens is known to increase the brain’s temperature. This, in turn, reduces the effectiveness of the BBB, making the brain more vulnerable to infections like the Japanese encephalitis virus.
How to reduce EMF risk?
Although you can never avoid electromagnetic field radiation entirely, you can take steps to lessen its harmful impact.
One of these is keeping the phone at some distance from you when it’s not needed. While speaking on the phone, hold it as far from you as possible. You can also consider using the speakerphone feature at all times.
While using a microwave, avoid standing in front while it’s in operation. Keep the Wi-Fi router at a safe distance. You could also consider consulting an electromagnetic radiation specialist. They will tell you how to place your gadgets and use them in a way that decreases the risk of radiation.
These are some things you should know about EMF risk. If you have any of the symptoms described above, take them seriously. Although it’s virtually impossible to avoid electromagnetic fields completely, you can take precautions and protect yourself by finding ways to lessen their overall impact.
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