Every person’s health story is different. The information below explains common causes and contributing factors for this issue, but it is not a one‑size‑fits‑all prescription.
As a qualified naturopath practising in Adelaide’s CBD, I take the time to understand your unique circumstances, use targeted testing when needed, and design a personalised care plan so you can feel and function at your best.
Mould Illness
Mould illness begins in vulnerable people when exposed to moulds. The most common exposure is from being in a water-damaged building.
There is an increased incidence found in those with a particular gene type. In this gene type, the person will have hypermobility associated with a looser connective tissue. Their unique tissue may allow small amounts of an inflammatory trigger to react like a larger amount would in others. That may explain why some people living in the same mouldy house are not affected while others are.
When exposed to moulds, biotoxins are inhaled. Most people are able to excrete these via the liver. In those with genetic variations, their immune system may respond more chaotically, resulting in those biotoxins remaining in their system. A progression of inflammation and illness then begins.
This complex condition may progress to become Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). Their symptoms may present similarly to Chronic Fatigue and are often misdiagnosed.
Possible Symptoms:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Symptoms resembling colds, flu, and sinus congestion
- Severe brain fog
- Increased allergies, chemical sensitivities, inflammation
- Vertigo
- Digestive changes often include “Leaky Gut”
- Insomnia
- Unusual joint pains
- Anxiety, Depression
Treatment:
The critical starting point is to eliminate the mould exposure, either by professional cleaning or moving out of the affected environment.
Once the continual exposure is removed, supporting the excretion of those circulating toxins is necessary. Due to the ineffective immune response in CIRS patients, their toxins tend to be recirculated.
Very targeted treatment is needed to address up to eight areas. These may include:
- Elimination of the fungals/microbes.
- Reducing inflammation.
- Reducing the allergic response.
- Supporting the microcirculation for healing tissues.
- Brain/mood support.
- Antioxidants to reduce the immune response.
- Detoxing to support the liver.
- Leaky gut screening and treatment.
