Mold Exposure
The invisible threat. Mold in water-damaged buildings releases mycotoxins, spores, and other biotoxins that can trigger chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS) in genetically susceptible individuals. About 25% of people lack the HLA genes to properly clear these toxins.
What Mold Releases
Mycotoxins
Toxic secondary metabolites: trichothecenes, aflatoxins, ochratoxin, gliotoxin. Very small, fat-soluble.
Spores
Reproductive particles. Inhaled into lungs. Trigger immune responses. Some colonize sinuses.
MVOCs
Microbial volatile organic compounds. The "musty smell." Can cause symptoms themselves.
Beta-glucans
Cell wall fragments. Trigger innate immune response. Inflammatory.
Endotoxins
Bacterial toxins from bacteria that grow with mold. Compound the problem.
Actinomycetes
Bacteria that grow in water-damaged buildings alongside mold. Additional biotoxins.
CIRS Symptoms (Multi-System)
Neurological
- Brain fog, difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems, word-finding difficulty
- Headaches, light/sound sensitivity
- Tremors, vertigo, poor balance
- Mood changes, depression, anxiety
General/Immune
- Fatigue that doesn't improve with rest
- Weakness, exercise intolerance
- Frequent infections, slow healing
- New chemical sensitivities
- Static shocks
Respiratory/Sinus
- Chronic sinusitis, congestion
- Cough, shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
- Asthma-like symptoms
Other Systems
- Joint pain without arthritis
- Abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea
- Night sweats, temperature dysregulation
- Excessive thirst, frequent urination
Testing for Mold Illness
CIRS Labs (Shoemaker Protocol)
MSH, VIP, TGF-beta 1, C4a, MMP-9, VEGF, ADH, osmolality. Pattern suggests CIRS.
HLA-DR Genetics
Identifies "mold-susceptible" HLA types. About 25% of people have these genes.
Mycotoxin Urine Test
RealTime Labs, Great Plains. Detect mycotoxins being excreted. Best done provoked.
VCS Testing
Visual contrast sensitivity. Free online screening. Biotoxins affect optic nerve.
Critical: Remove From Exposure
No treatment works while you're still being exposed. This is the hardest but most important step:
Test Your Environment
ERMI/HERTSMI-2 dust testing, or hire a qualified inspector. Trust data over appearance.
Leave If Necessary
Sometimes remediation works. Sometimes you need to move. Health > property.