Mycotoxins and Mold Illness

WHAT ARE MYCOTOXINS? Mycotoxins are very toxic compounds given off by certain types of molds.  There are 1,00 types of molds growing in a modern American homes and buildings. Although, most molds are harmless but some are pathogenic that can cause serious health effects. Mold related illnesses have become epidemic because they are inflammagens that cause multiple illness and/or environmentally acquired illness (EAI). Although Denver area has low humidity, mycotoxins are still very present from water damage, swamp coolers, poor building maintenance and water damage in walls that you do not see.

Mold illness is the variety of health problems that can occur from any type of mold exposure. Although a mold allergy is the most common problem caused by exposure to mold, mold can cause illness without an allergic reaction. Mold can also cause infections or irritants and toxic reactions. Infections caused by mold can lead to a variety of problems from flu-like symptoms to skin infections and even pneumonia.
(Mayo Clinic)

Five of the Most Common Indoor Molds
1. Alternaria: Commonly found in your nose, mouth, and upper respiratory tract; can cause allergic responses.

2. Aspergillus: Usually found in warm, extremely damp climates, and a common occupant of house dust; produces mycotoxins; can cause lung infections.

3. Cladosporium: This very common outdoor fungus can find its way indoors to grow on textiles, wood, and other damp, porous materials; triggers hay fever and asthma symptoms.

4. Penicillium: Very common species found on wallpaper, decaying fabrics, carpet, and fiberglass duct insulation; known for causing allergies and asthma; some species produce mycotoxins, one being the common antibiotic penicillin.

5. Stachybotrys: Extremely toxic “black mold” that produces mycotoxins that can cause serious breathing difficulties and bleeding of the lungs, among other health problems. Thankfully, less common in homes than the other four, but not rare; found on wood or paper (cellulose products), but NOT on concrete, linoleum or tile.

Signs include brain fog, memory problem’s, trouble focusing, headache, fatigue and weakness, muscle cramping, persistent nerve pain, numbness and tingling, eye problems) red eyes and light sensitivity, metallic taste in mouth, night sweats, excessive thirst and urination, tremors and vertigo
Treatment at Monarch includes a personally tailored protocol to bind and detoxify toxins while building your immune system. In some cases, we will suggest inspections of your home.

References
1. Hope, Janette. Complete evaluation of mold exposed patients and their environments. Lecture presented: AAEM Dallas 2018.
2. Boonen J, et al. Human skin penetration of selected model mycotoxins. Toxicology. 2012;301(1-3):21-32.
3. Storey E, et al. Guidance for clinicians on the recognition and management of health effects related to mold exposure and moisture indoors. University of Connecticut Health Center. 2004
4. Brewer JH, Thrasher JD, Straus DC, et al. Detection of mycotoxins in patients with chronic fatigue
syndrome. Toxins. 2013;5(4):605-617.
5. Visual Contrast Sensitivity Test. VCSTest.com website. https://www.vcstest.com/ Accessed
February 2018.
6. Mycotoxin illness: recognition and management from Functional Medicine Perspective Phys Med Rehabil Clin N  doi: 10.1016/j.pmr.2022.04.006. Epub 2022 Jun 24

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The product mentioned in this article are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.   The information in this article is not intended to replace any recommendations or relationship with your physician.  Please review references sited at end of article for scientific support of any claims made.