Mold and Mycotoxins
Molds belong to the fungus family of organisms and can be found in food and the environment. Mold grows in damp, dark environments and can be found in various areas of your home such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements and in hidden places such as behind walls or under carpets.
Certain types of molds produce mycotoxins, which are toxic substances. A mycotoxin is a secondary metabolite produced by mold organisms and can cause disease and death.
The mycotoxins that mold secrete are 2.5 microns or smaller. This is the same size as viruses, so they are virtually invisible and as a result mycotoxin can go right through a wall and can even remain after the mold is cleaned up.
Mold and mycotoxins can cause adverse symptoms ranging from mild to severe depending on the species of mold involved and the individual susceptibility of the person. Certain mycotoxins can cause serious health risks to humans for several reasons.
Exposure to mycotoxins through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, can lead to various health problems. Mycotoxins may affect the respiratory system, nervous system, immune system, and other organs. In essence, the inflammation caused by mold toxicity can affect every system of the body.
Symptoms of Being Affected by Mycotoxins Include:
- Fatigue, weakness
- Brain Fog, easily confused, disorientation, short-term memory loss, difficulties with assimilation of new information and word finding
- Headaches
- Skin rashes and sores that will not heal
- Hair Loss
- Nausea, abdominal pain and discomfort (IBS), diarrhea
- Sleep disturbance
- Mood Swings and personality disturbances
- Chronic sinus congestion, severe nasal allergies
- Blurred vision, itchy watery eyes, sensitivity to bright light
- Coughing, breathing difficulties, shortness of breath
- Loss of equilibrium
- Muscle and joint aches/pains, cramps, unusual pain (icepick or “lightning bolt”)
Outdoors, there are hundreds of species of mold with each species preferring a particular ecological niche and nature typically maintains a natural balance amongst the species.
The mold species we are exposed to outdoors may affect us in terms of allergies and are not considered toxic. However, it is the types of molds that grow out of control in a water damaged buildings that cause major health disruptions.
These are some of the mold species we are primarily concerned about that are toxic and commonly cause illness:
- Stachybotrys (Black Mold)
- Penicillium
- Aspergillus
- Chaetomium
- Fusarium
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What to Expect
Your initial appointment with Dr. Roy or Dr. Sechler will include an extensive review of medical history, symptoms, recent labs (if you have any), and medications and/or supplement lists. The providers will then order any necessary Advanced mold and myotoxins labs and tests to help identify the root cause of your symptoms. Once results are received, you’ll have a follow-up appointment to discuss them and be provided with a plan of care.
Are You a Candidate?
If you are considering becoming a Mold and Mycotoxins patient at AustinMD, but still have more questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our Patient Coordinator will be happy to answer your questions or give you more information on any of our programs and memberships. We also offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation with our providers to make sure we are a good fit for your needs. You may give us a call to schedule your consultation. 512-593-5605.
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