Mold and mold illnesses are a major concern that can cause a myriad of health issues. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), mold is very common in both residential and commercial buildings. One common problem people who are exposed to mold may experience is CIRS or chronic inflammatory response syndrome.
Read on to learn more about some of the most common CIRS symptoms to help you decide if you need to take action.
What is CIRS?
CIRS is short for chronic inflammatory response system and is an example of an inflammatory immune dysfunction. This condition is associated with exposure to biotoxins, including mold.
The disease is usually identified by chronic inflammation associated with a wide range of symptoms. This makes CIRS difficult to diagnose. It’s often confused with other problems like asthma, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or even depression.
CIRS Symptoms
Many of the symptoms of this mold sickness are similar to other diseases. That’s why CIRS is often quite difficult to diagnose. Here are some important CIRS symptoms to look for if you think you’ve been affected.
Stomach Pain or Diarrhea
Abdominal pain is a common inflammatory symptom that may be related to CIRS. While stomach pain is common for a wide range of conditions, it could be coupled with other CIRS symptoms. Numbness, a leaky gut, and diarrhea are also often reported.
Watery Eyes or a Metallic Taste
If your eyes are consistently watery, it may be CIRS related. Other patients have reported a persistent metallic taste in their mouths that won’t go away. Disorientation could be associated with one or both of these symptoms, too.
Shortness of Breath and Sinus Issues
Since CIRS is caused by breathing in mold, it affects the sinuses. Both nasal and sinus congestion and shortness of breath are often associated with CIRS.
Memory Impairment
Exposure to mold may cause issues with memory and the ability to find the right words when you’re speaking. Some research shows that mold illness could result in a variety of brain and memory abnormalities.
Body Aches and Headaches
Constant body aches could be a sign of chronic inflammatory syndrome. Other symptoms include sensitivity to light and frequent headaches. Skin sensitivity like rashes or the feeling of “pins and needles” on the skin is also common.
Joint Pain and Stiffness
Joint pain and feeling stiff in the morning may also be symptoms of CIRS. Muscle cramps and fatigue that seem to be persistent are other common issues. Some patients have also reported vertigo, which is a feeling of dizziness.
Get Your Home Inspected Today
If you suspect that you may have CIRS or that your home has a mold issue, it’s vital that you get a mold inspection right away. Testing and remediation of mold now could keep you safe and healthy so you can avoid mold-related illnesses later.
To schedule an inspection or to find out more, contact the professionals at Elite Mold Services, Inc. today.