I am writing to request help from your readers. I have developed a strange hypersensitivity to the plastics or coatings in recent cell phones and laptop computers.
I am both an engineer and a physician. I have used cell phones and computers over many years with no problem. In 2002, I purchased a new cell phone. After handling the phone for a day, I developed a sore throat and burning in my mouth. This has occurred with four different cell phones from three different manufacturers. This, unfortunately, has also occurred with three laptop computers from three different manufacturers. Thus, a total of seven products from six different manufacturers are producing the same reaction. I have had no reaction from products made before 2002 and from one desktop keyboard from late 2002. (I am still using my 2000 vintage cell phone.)
What has changed in either the plastic or the coatings (including metal coatings) of cell phones and laptop computers in the last two years? This change could be in the plastic itself or some kind of coating or processing for such items as scratch resistance, nonslip, heat conduction, flame retardance, radio frequency shielding, coloring or decals.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Dennis Sager
Reston, Va.
