How Mold Can Impact Your Health

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Hidden mold can have a negative impact on your health

Chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS) is a serious, multi-symptom illness that negatively impacts more than one system in the body. Most often is it caused by exposure to harmful biotoxins or neurotoxins in our environment. These toxins may be caused by:

• Mold in the home.
• Pfiesteria – Microscopic organism that produces toxins known to cause large fish kills.
• Cyanobacteria – Commonly found in lakes and rivers.
• Lyme disease – Transmitted by tick bites.
• Poisonous spider bites.
• Ciguatera – A toxin affecting reef fish that are often consumed by humans.

The effects of this inflammatory syndrome vary depending on the person and their experience. However, the respiratory, neurological, psychological, and gastrointestinal symptoms can be life-changing, no matter the source, which is why it is essential to know the signs and see your doctor if you think you have it. Remember, mold allergies are not the same as mold illness, so it is critical to determine the reason for your symptoms. If you recently had flooding in your home or the interior of your household has been humid, you will also want to determine if your symptoms of CIRS are being caused by exposure to mold in your home.

Characteristics of CIRS From Mold Exposure

It is important to know that the effects of chronic inflammatory response syndrome from mold exposure will present itself differently than if it was caused by something else, such as a spider bite, a burn or lyme disease. In fact, when a person develops this syndrome due to mold exposure specifically, they will usually experience some of these symptoms, in addition to those mentioned above: 

• Headache
• Sinus congestion
• Sore throat
• Nosebleeds 
• Itchy eyes 
• Cough 
• Flu symptoms 
• Wheezing
• Stomach ache 

These symptoms are also typical signs of illnesses like influenza, indoor and outdoor allergies, and the common cold, so it is important to see your physician if you have them. 

Checking Your Home for Signs of Mold

No matter the cause, chronic inflammatory response syndrome is a severe illness with lasting consequences. In many cases, it does develop as a result of toxic mold exposure, which is why it is important to have your Lynn, Lynnfield or Nahant home checked if you or your doctor think mold may be causing your symptoms. A professional mold inspection completed by an experienced technician will determine if mold is present, and they will let you know what needs to be done to safely remove it. 

SERVPRO of Lynn/Lynnfield is staffed with experienced experts that come to your home for a mold consultation.   Call us today at 781.593.6663