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What is mold illness?

Mold illness occurs when you are exposed to mold allergens and your immune system reacts. Mold needs moisture and warmth to flourish, so you’re more likely to encounter it in areas that are damp or water-damaged, such as showers, near external windows, or in basements.

Mold exposure is unlikely to be fatal, but it can make you very sick if you have a mold allergy, and exposure is never healthful.

What are the symptoms of mold illness?

When mold is present, the room may have a musty odor. If you breathe in mold spores, your immune system usually triggers an inflammatory response in your eyes, nose, and lungs. For immunocompromised individuals, it can cause a fungal infection, or mycosis, of the airways.

Symptoms of mold illness include:

  • Trouble concentrating
  • Red eyes
  • Mood swings
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Brain fog or poor memory
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Nasal congestion
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Postnasal drip
  • Wheezing
  • Migraines and headaches
  • Chest tightness
  • Shortness of breath (dyspnea)

Be especially cautious in areas that might harbor mold if you have asthma. Mold exposure can trigger or worsen your symptoms.

What can I expect from my treatment plan for mold illness?

Your first step will be to eliminate your exposure to toxins and clear out any that are lingering in your body.

Charlie may perform tests, including lab work, to determine if you are reacting to a mold allergy. As a skilled functional medicine practitioner, he will personalize your treatment plan and may recommend a combination of therapies to help you find relief. These may include:


Herbal, lifestyle, and nutritional counseling

Anti-inflammatory diets can be helpful while your system is on high alert due to mold toxins. Charlie can recommend herbal remedies, lifestyle changes, and dietary advice.


Supplements

To support your underlying health and cleanse your body, Root and Branch Holistic Care offers high-quality supplements from research-driven lines such as Pure Encapsulations®, Designs for Health®, BioMatrix, DesBio, Quicksilver Scientific®, and others.


Acupuncture

This Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment uses very fine needles inserted into specific pressure points to rebalance or unblock your qi, or energy. Acupuncture is effective in reducing inflammation and may help you breathe more easily.

To learn more about how you can combat mold illness, book your appointment at Root and Branch Holistic Care online or by calling or texting Charlie’s direct line. You can also email the office today.