Mold Illness and Its Impact on Health

Dr. Jane Fresne, DN

Exposure to indoor mold can lead to a range of physically-deteriorating symptoms. Initial manifestations such as brain fog, difficulty breathing, digestive issues, sleep disturbances, pain, and vision abnormalities can rapidly escalate into more chronic health issues. Many individuals experiencing consistent mold exposure, often in their homes or workplaces, may not immediately recognize the underlying cause, particularly when mold is hidden behind walls or beneath floor tiles.

In situations where moving away from the mold is not immediately feasible, seeking guidance from a mold-knowledgeable functional medicine physician is crucial. Brain fog can complicate the understanding of the path toward recovery, emphasizing the need for medical supervision of presenting symptoms. Here are some guidelines to consider in addition to consulting your doctor, whether Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is involved or not. Approximately 25 percent of humans possess a gene predisposing them to CIRS, a progressive, multi-system, multi-symptom illness triggered by mold exposure. Untreated, the ongoing inflammation can affect various organ systems, becoming debilitating due to the body's impaired mechanism to expel mold toxins.

CIRS typically arises from repeated mold exposure, leading to a state of inflammation that results in illness. This buildup of toxins also causes physical symptoms in the remaining 75 percent of individuals constantly exposed to mold. However, their bodies possess functioning mold detox pathways, releasing toxins naturally when they leave moldy environments.

For those with CIRS in moldy indoor settings, it is imperative to take a binder and vacate the location hosting the active mold source. Medications such as Cholestyramine, which binds to mold and expels it from the body, are often prescribed by functional medicine practitioners. Other effective binders, including activated charcoal, have been developed by supplement companies. These binders should be taken at least an hour and a half before or after meals. Replenishing lost minerals through vitamin and mineral supplements after detoxing is advisable, with some individuals endorsing the binding properties of Okra.

In addition to binders, incorporating daily practices like using room air purifiers, dehumidifiers, infrared saunas, anti-mold sprays in cars and on surfaces, antimicrobial nasal sprays, Epsom salt baths, increased water intake, antihistamine supplements, and probiotics/prebiotics can contribute to a helpful regimen when exposed to indoor mold.

Testing options, both for the environment and the body, are essential. Professional mold testing for rooms, home hardware store test kits, moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and mycotoxin urine test kits are among the recommended methods. Engaging with the "Toxic Mold Support Group" on Facebook can provide valuable insights and firsthand feedback from those who have overcome the debilitating effects of mold exposure.

Wishing you many blessings towards health and wholeness.