Mold Toxicity

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is a term coined by Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker to describe what can happen to up to 1/4 of the population when they have persistent significant exposure to toxins. These toxins are often made by mold or bacteria that tend to be plentiful in water damaged buildings. The symptoms can be debilitating and keep getting worse with continued exposure. 

Symptoms can be highly varied, but include things like fatigue, weakness, headaches, light sensitivity, memory and concentration difficulties, joint pains, morning stiffness, cramps, sensitivity to light touch, tingling, shortness of breath, sinus, chronic cough, thirst, appetite and temperature swings, frequent urination, red eyes, blurred vision sweats, decreased mood, ice-pick pains, abdominal pain, diarrhea, numbness, tearing, disorient, metallic taste, static shocks and vertigo. 

In addition to symptoms, a visual contrast sensitivity test can show abnormalities. 

Routine standard labs are typically normal, but highly specialized ones including HLD-DR (genetic test looking for difficulty breaking down the toxins), low Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone (MSH), elevated Metalo Matrix Protein (MMP-9), elevated Transforming Growth Factor (TGF-b1), and elevated Complement (C3a and C4a), to name a few, can help to make the diagnosis. 

Dr. Vance has been mentored personally by Dr. Shoemaker in evaluating and treating CIRS. If you feel CIRS might possibly be a problem for you or your loved ones, please schedule today.