What is Mould Illness?
Mould illness, also known as chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS), is a condition triggered by exposure to mould and other biotoxins. These biotoxins are commonly found in water-damaged buildings and can cause a range of symptoms, affecting multiple systems in the body.
Mould spores, which are tiny fungal particles, can grow on various surfaces when there is moisture. When these spores are inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with the skin, they can lead to a host of health issues, particularly in individuals who are sensitive or have weakened immune systems.
I ask every single client if they've been exposed to mould or water damaged buildings. For most of my clients who are chronically ill, they've been exposed. This was the same for our family. I thought for years that our home was fine. There was no black mould in the house anywhere (we keep a very clean shower!), however when I tested a family member with the Mycotoxin (mould urine test) it came back as having elevated amounts in their body. SO that led us down the path to try to work out where it was coming from..... the ducted heating and cooling vent in the roof. So guess what, it had be spraying all over our home, carpets, furnishings, clothes - everything! Given the urgency to address with family members having significant autoimmune conditions going on, we remediated our home and it now the air testing samples have back 'normal'. BUT it will take most likely another year to detox these mycotoxins from our body....
Symptoms of Mould Illness
Symptoms of mould illness can vary widely but often include:
Respiratory Issues: Chronic coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and sinus infections.
Neurological Symptoms: Headaches, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and dizziness.
Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.
Muscle and Joint Pain: Unexplained aches and pains.- Skin Problems: Rashes, itching, and hives.
Mood Disorders: Anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
Digestive Issues: Nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Immune Health: Flaring of autoimmune or other inflammatory conditions.
Why Mould Illness is Important to Address
Widespread Exposure: Mould can grow in any environment where there is moisture, making it a common issue in homes, workplaces, and schools. Given the amount of rain we have been experiencing, it is more common that people realise. And don't forget our story - it was invisible which is apparently very common I've learned!
Chronic Health Impact: If left untreated, mould illness can lead to chronic health problems that significantly impact quality of life. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing long-term damage.
Misdiagnosis Risk: Mould illness can mimic other conditions, leading to misdiagnosis and improper treatment. Increased awareness and proper testing can ensure correct diagnosis and effective treatment.
Vulnerable Populations: Certain individuals, such as children, those with asthma, allergies, or compromised immune systems, are more susceptible to mould illness.
Indoor Air Quality: Mould growth negatively affects indoor air quality, which can impact everyone in the affected environment. Ensuring clean air is essential for overall health. And make sure you dust! I learned that mould feeds on dust, so keeping a clean home is now even more important.
If you suspect you have been exposed to mould or water damaged buildings, we need to talk - I invite to you to book a free Discovery Call. The Mycotoxin urine test will tell us exactly what you've been exposed to and what is required to help you gently and safely detox this. Treatments may include nutrition and supplements to reduce inflammation and detoxification protocols to remove biotoxins from the body. But I must share with you from my own experience, you cannot rush this process - it needs to be done gently and can take months or even years for some people.... and you must remediate where it's coming from. I can share with you my experience of going through this process.
Mould illness is a very serious condition that can have far-reaching effects on health and well-being. By understanding the risks and symptoms, taking steps to prevent mould growth, and seeking proper treatment, you we can mitigate the impact of mould exposure. Addressing mould illness essential for you and your families health.
Vanessa Vanderhoek is a integrative & functional medicine nutritionist specialising in the gut microbiome, biochemistry and nutrigenomics. She helps people to regain their health by taking a “food as medicine” approach that's unique to their body. Vanessa is based in Australia and has clients around the world. Book an appointment online by clicking here.