Mould Illness

What is CIRS?

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is a condition that can occur when an individual is exposed to a biotoxin, typically from mould, but also from other sources like bacteria, mycobacteria, and certain toxins.

CIRS is a term coined by Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, who extensively researched the effects of biotoxin exposure on human health.
When a susceptible individual inhales or comes into contact with biotoxins, their immune system may respond abnormally, leading to a chronic inflammatory response throughout the body.

Mould Fact: Did you know you can get a simple blood test to determine if you are sensitive to mould? (more info further down)

The symptoms of CIRS can vary but often include:

Fatigue and weakness

Brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems

Headaches and migraines

Joint and muscle pain

Digestive issues, such as bloating, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain

Sensitivity to light, noise, and certain chemicals

Respiratory problems, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath

Skin rashes and other skin-related symptoms

Sleep disturbances

Mood swings and depression

CIRS can be challenging to diagnose because its symptoms are nonspecific and can resemble those of other conditions. However, certain diagnostic criteria and tests have been developed by Dr. Shoemaker and other experts to help identify CIRS, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and assessment of genetic susceptibility.
Treatment of CIRS involves multiple steps, including identifying and removing the source of biotoxin exposure, such as mould remediation in the individual’s living or working environment. Other treatment approaches may include addressing immune dysregulation, detoxification support, anti-inflammatory medications, and addressing co-existing conditions.
If you suspect you may have CIRS, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional knowledgeable about this condition to receive an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Do you have a genetic predisposition to mould illness (HLA DR DQ)?

25% of the population have this gene type which makes them predisposed to mould sensitivities and illness. Specifically, the HLA DR and DQ alleles that have been linked to mould sensitivity and CIRS are those that are involved in the immune system’s response to fungal infections. These alleles are thought to affect the immune system’s ability to recognise and respond to mould toxins, leading to an exaggerated immune response and chronic inflammation in some individuals.

Genetic testing for HLA DR and DQ can be helpful in identifying individuals who may be at increased risk of mould sensitivity and CIRS, and may be used in combination with other diagnostic tools to help guide treatment and management of these conditions. It’s important to work with a healthcare professional who specialises in these conditions to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. MouldSafe can refer you to get further support from our recommended practitioners.

What is sick building syndrome?

Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a term used to describe a range of symptoms experienced by individuals who spend time in certain buildings or indoor spaces. These symptoms typically appear when people are inside the building and diminish or disappear when they leave. The exact cause of sick building syndrome is not always known, but it is believed to be related to a combination of factors, including poor indoor air quality, inadequate ventilation, and various chemical or biological contaminants present in the building.

Some common symptoms associated with sick building syndrome include:

Respiratory problems:

Individuals may experience coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath.

Eye, nose, and throat irritation:

Symptoms can include dry or itchy eyes, sore throat, hoarseness, nasal congestion, or runny nose.

Skin irritation:

People may develop skin rashes, itching, or dryness.

Headaches:

Recurrent headaches, often accompanied by difficulty concentrating, can be a symptom of SBS.

Fatigue:

Individuals may feel tired, lethargic, or experience a general lack of energy.

Dizziness or nausea:

Some people may feel lightheaded, dizzy, or nauseous when spending time in a particular building.

While the exact causes of sick building syndrome can vary, contributing factors may include inadequate ventilation, high humidity levels, chemical contaminants from indoor or outdoor sources (e.g., volatile organic compounds, cleaning products, or pesticides), biological contaminants (e.g., mould, bacteria, or pollen), poor maintenance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, or the presence of certain building materials or furnishings that emit volatile chemicals. If you suspect a building is causing sick building syndrome symptoms, it is advisable to report the issue to the relevant authorities or building management. A thorough investigation of the indoor environment can help identify potential sources of the problem and appropriate measures can be taken to improve the air quality and overall conditions within the building.