Mould Illness, CIRS & MCAS Treatment
Mould illness is an increasingly recognised condition that can have a significant impact on the immune system, nervous system and overall wellbeing.
Exposure to mould, particularly from water-damaged buildings, can trigger an immune response in the body. This often involves the release of histamine and inflammatory cytokines as the body attempts to protect itself from harmful mould spores and mycotoxins (toxic compounds produced and released by the mould). .
Whilst some people tolerate mould exposure with minimal symptoms, others are far more sensitive and may develop complex, chronic health issues.
Common Symptoms of Mould Illness
Mould-related illness can present in many ways, depending on the duration and level of exposure, as well as individual susceptibility.
Acute or early symptoms may include:
- Brain fog and poor concentration
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Sinus congestion, runny nose
- Sore throat
- Irritated, red or watery eyes
- Cough, wheezing or asthma
- Skin rashes or eczema
Those with allergies, asthma, gut issues or pre-existing immune dysfunction, as well as children, may be more vulnerable to these effects.
Mould Illness & Histamine / MCAS
Prolonged exposure to mould can dysregulate the immune system and contribute to MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome), whereby the body releases excessive histamine. This can lead to symptoms such as:
- Food sensitivities
- Bloating, diarrhoea, abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Anxiety and insomnia
- Rapid heart rate or low blood pressure
- Chronic sinus congestion
- Shortness of breath or throat tightness
In these cases, the body struggles to keep up with histamine breakdown, leading to ongoing inflammatory symptoms.
Mould Illness & CIRS
In some individuals, mould exposure can trigger a more complex condition known as Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).
CIRS is a multi-system condition. It occurs when the body is unable to effectively clear biotoxins (such as from mould), leading to a persistent inflammatory response. This may be influenced by genetic susceptibility (such as HLA-DR variations).
Symptoms can be widespread and systemic, and may include:
- Severe, persistent fatigue
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Cognitive impairment, confusion and memory issues
- Tingling, numbness or “buzzing” sensations
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Tinnitus &/or vertigo
- Mood changes or anxiety
- Digestive disturbances incl. abdominal pain, diarrhoea
- Difficulty regulating body temperature
- Excessive thirst
- Night sweats
- Metallic taste
These symptoms are often labelled as conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia or POTS. However it is crucial to determine whether mould illness is behind the symptoms in order to treat effectively.
Mould-related illness and CIRS are becoming increasingly common in Australia, particularly in flood-affected or high-humidity areas.