11/29/2023
MOLD SICKNESS from Water Damage Buildings
Overview
The purpose of this is to bring awareness to the dangers and long term affects of mold exposure from water damaged buildings.
Topics include
â—¦ Introduction to mold and water damaged buildings
â—¦ Dangers of Mold exposure
â—¦ Symptoms of Mold sickness
â—¦ Diagnosis and treatment for Mold sickness
â—¦ Long term Health effects of Water Damaged Buildings
â—¦ Prevention and Remediation of Mold in Buildings
â—¦ Legal and Insurance issues
â—¦ Resources and Information
Introduction to Mold and Water Damaged Buildings
Over 70% of all homes contain mold, in addition 18% of school buildings, and 26% of hospitals contain mold.
The annual cost per year of illness caused by indoor mold per year is 3.7 Billion
Mold presents a larger health risk than lead paint or asbestos.
What is mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in moist and warm environments. It is a type of microorganisms that can be found in many different places, such as buildings, food, and soil.
Mold typically feeds on organic matter, including wood, paper products, and other materials that contain cellulose. It also thrives in damp or humid environments where it can grow on surfaces such as walls, floors, and ceilings.
In addition to organic materials, some types of mold can also feed on synthetic materials, such as plastics and synthetic fibers. This can make mold growth particularly challenging to control in modern buildings and homes.
How does Mold grow in buildings?
• Mold requires three things to grow: moisture, a suitable surface, and a source of nutrients. Buildings can provide all of these conditions, making them vulnerable to mold growth. Here are some ways that mold can grow in buildings:
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• 1. Water damage: Water leaks from plumbing, roofs, or windows can provide the moisture that mold needs to grow.
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• 2. High humidity: High humidity levels can encourage mold growth, especially in areas with poor ventilation, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
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• 3. Poor ventilation: Buildings that are poorly ventilated can trap moisture and create conditions that are favorable for mold growth.
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• 4. Condensation: Condensation can form on surfaces that are cooler than the surrounding air, such as windows, walls, and pipes. This moisture can provide a breeding ground for mold.
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• 5. Organic materials: Mold needs a source of nutrients to grow, and organic materials such as wood, paper, and fabric can provide this. Building materials such as drywall, ceiling tiles, and insulation can also be a food source for mold.
What are the common sources of water damage in buildings?
Roof and flashing
Roofs are the most common cause of water damage in buildings. Most roofs have a life expectancy of 25 years, however life can be shortened due to many factors.
Flashing around chimneys, waste vents and drip edges are another area for water pe*******on.
Leaks in Plumbing systems
The most common cause of plumbing leaks is corrosion of the piping, other causes could be high water pressure, weak leaking joints, extreme temperatures, or broken or corroded connections.
Clogged gutters
Most people are not aware of the need to clean gutters. Dirt then accumulates and clogs the drains.
The typical culprits are leaves, weeds, sludge, and ice in cold climates.
When gutters clog water pools and excess water overflows near the structure and causes damage. Ice dams may form in cold climates as water and snow from the roof freezes and thaws. Excess water may seep down foundation and and pe*****te into cellars. Down spouts not leading water away from foundation will also pe*****te into foundation walls.
Faulty appliances
When your water appliances, like aging water heaters and washing machines, are malfunctioning, they can cause water damage.
The equipment malfunctions because of the poor water connections and hoses that lead to the appliances.
Blocked toilets
Water damage can also occur when your toilets block.
The bathroom can block due to solid waste like hair or due to clogging of the drainage system. When the toilet blocks, the water can overflow and flood the floor damaging it
Pipe bursts
The most typical reason why pipes burst is due to temperature changes.
When temperatures drop too low, ice forms inside your pipes and then expands, and this can make them burst.
The likelihood of pipes bursting is higher if the pipes are old and rusty.
Poor insulation and pipes in exterior walls are prone to freezing.
Malfunctioning Air Conditioning
Air conditioning work by cooling the air and removing humidity.
This condensing moisture is then redirected to an overflow pan.
The overflow pan then facilitates the movement of the water to the outside through the condensate line
If the overflow pan gets damaged or the condensate line gets clogged the drainage system of the air conditioning system starts malfunctioning.
This excess water can soak your ceiling or walls, damaging it. Under the right conditions mold can form inside the air conditioning system.
Water Overflow
Water overflow which can occur when you forget to turn off sinks or faucets in the tubs.
Water overflow can cause a lot of damage to the floors and carpets and may even result in mold growth inside your house.
Sewerage and Septic Backups
Sewage backup creates an awful mess in your home and also creates a health hazard.
Septic tanks can overflow when they fill up or when there is heavy rain that makes them fill up.
When this happens, the waste in the septic tank backs up to your house posing a potential health hazard.
Extreme weather conditions
Adverse weather conditions such as like heavy rain and extreme snow, can also cause water damage despite having a plumbing system that is functioning correctly.
Flooding and ground water can cause basements to flood creating conditions which can cause water damage and mold growth.
Mold found in water damaged buildings
There are several different types of mold that can be found in water damaged buildings, including:
1. Stachybotrys chartarum - also known as "black mold," this type of mold can cause respiratory problems and is often associated with water damage.
2. Aspergillus - a common type of mold that can grow in damp environments and may cause respiratory problems in some people.
3. Penicillium - a type of mold that is commonly found in water-damaged buildings and can cause allergic reactions or respiratory problems.
4. Cladosporium - a type of mold that is often found on damp surfaces such as carpets, wallpaper, and insulation. It can cause respiratory problems and may also trigger allergies.
5. Alternaria - a type of mold that is commonly found in damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. It can cause respiratory problems and may also trigger allergies.
It's important to note that the presence of mold in a building can pose a health risk, so if you suspect that your building may have a mold problem, it's important to take action as soon as possible to address the issue.
Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain types of molds. There are many different mycotoxins that can be produced by different types of molds, but some of the most common mycotoxins found in mold include:
1. Aflatoxins: These are produced by Aspergillus molds, and can be found in contaminated peanuts, corn, and other crops.
2. Ochratoxin A: This mycotoxin is produced by several different types of molds, and can be found in contaminated food products such as cereal grains, coffee, and wine.
3. Trichothecenes: These mycotoxins are produced by several different types of molds, and can be found in contaminated grains such as wheat, barley, and rye.
4. Zearalenone: This mycotoxin is produced by Fusarium molds, and can be found in contaminated grains such as corn, wheat, and barley.
5. Fumonisins: These mycotoxins are produced by Fusarium molds, and can be found in contaminated corn and corn-based products.
It's worth noting that the presence of mold does not necessarily mean that mycotoxins are present, and not all molds produce mycotoxins. However, it's important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with exposure to mycotoxins, as they can be harmful to humans and animals.
Dangers of Mold exposure
Mold is a common type of fungi that can thrive in damp and poorly ventilated environments. While mold is a natural part of our environment and can be found both indoors and outdoors, exposure to high levels of mold can have long-term effects on human health.
One of the most common long-term effects of mold exposure is respiratory problems. Mold spores can irritate the lungs and cause allergic reactions, such as asthma and bronchitis. For those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, exposure to mold can exacerbate their symptoms and lead to more frequent and severe bouts of illness. Moreover, long-term exposure to mold can cause permanent damage to the respiratory system, leading to chronic respiratory issues that can last a lifetime.
In addition to respiratory problems, mold exposure can also have neurological effects. Studies have shown that exposure to mold can cause cognitive impairment, memory loss, and mood disorders. The toxins produced by some types of mold can also affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to mold can lead to depression and anxiety, as individuals struggle with the physical and emotional effects of their illness.
Another long-term effect of mold exposure is immune system suppression. Exposure to mold can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses. This is particularly dangerous for those with compromised immune systems, such as the elderly or individuals with HIV/AIDs. In some cases, mold exposure can even lead to the development of autoimmune diseases, where the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body.
Finally, it is important to note that the long-term effects of mold exposure can vary depending on the type of mold and the length of exposure. Some types of mold, such as black mold, produce more toxic substances and can have more severe long-term effects on human health. Additionally, individuals who are exposed to mold for prolonged periods of time, such as those who live or work in mold-infested buildings, are at a higher risk for developing long-term health problems.
In conclusion, mold exposure can have serious long-term effects on human health. From respiratory problems to immune system suppression to neurological effects, the impact of mold exposure can be significant and long-lasting.
What is the difference between mold allergy and mold sickness
Mold allergy and mold sickness are two different conditions that can be caused by exposure to mold.
Mold allergy is an allergic reaction to mold spores. When a person with mold allergy inhales mold spores, their immune system overreacts, causing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and skin rashes. Mold allergy is similar to other types of airborne allergies, such as pollen or dust allergies, and can usually be treated with antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays.
In contrast, mold sickness refers to a range of symptoms that can occur when a person is exposed to high levels of mold for a prolonged period of time. These symptoms can include headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, memory loss, and respiratory problems. Mold sickness is not an allergic reaction, but rather a toxic response to the mycotoxins that certain molds produce. Mycotoxins can cause a range of health problems, and exposure to high levels of these toxins can be especially dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, such as infants, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
It's worth noting that exposure to mold can cause both mold sickness and mold allergies, and some people may experience both at the same time. However, the severity and duration of symptoms can vary depending on individual factors such as genetics, immune system function, and the level and duration of exposure to mold. If you suspect that you may have mold sickness or allergies, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Respiratory diseases caused by Mold exposure
Exposure to mold can contribute to respiratory problems in some people, particularly those with pre-existing respiratory conditions or weakened immune systems. Here are some respiratory diseases that can be caused by mold exposure:
1. Allergic rhinitis: This is a common allergic reaction to mold spores that affects the nose and sinuses. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and itching.
2. Asthma: Exposure to mold can trigger asthma symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. In some cases, mold exposure can cause asthma in people who previously did not have the condition.
3. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis: This is a rare but serious condition that can result from exposure to mold spores. It causes inflammation of the lungs and can lead to shortness of breath, coughing, and fever.
4. Chronic bronchitis: Exposure to mold can irritate the airways and lead to chronic bronchitis, which is characterized by a persistent cough and mucus production.
5. Fungal sinusitis: Mold exposure can also cause fungal sinusitis, which is an infection of the sinuses that can lead to nasal congestion, facial pain, and headaches.
It's important to note that not everyone who is exposed to mold will develop respiratory problems, and the severity of symptoms can vary depending on individual sensitivity to mold and the amount and duration of exposure.
How does mold affect the kidney
Mold exposure can potentially have negative effects on the kidneys, although it is not a common occurrence.
In some cases, exposure to mold can lead to the development of a condition called IgA nephropathy, which is a type of kidney disease characterized by inflammation in the kidneys. This condition occurs when the body's immune system produces an antibody called IgA, which can accumulate in the kidneys and cause damage.
In addition, certain types of mold produce mycotoxins, which are toxic substances that can damage the kidneys and other organs. Mycotoxins can be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin, and can cause a variety of symptoms, including kidney damage.
â—¦ However, it is important to note that the relationship between mold exposure and kidney damage is not well understood, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential risks.
What are the effects of mold exposure on the nervous system
Mold exposure can have a variety of effects on the nervous system, depending on the type and amount of mold, as well as the individual's sensitivity to it. Some of the potential effects of mold exposure on the nervous system include:
1. Neurological symptoms: Mold exposure has been linked to a range of neurological symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating.
2. Anxiety and depression: Some studies have suggested that mold exposure may also be associated with increased rates of anxiety and depression.
3. Sleep disturbances: Mold exposure has been linked to sleep disturbances, including insomnia and nightmares.
4. Fatigue: Mold exposure may also cause fatigue and lethargy.
5. Tremors: In rare cases, mold exposure has been associated with the development of tremors and other movement disorders.
6. Seizures: Some studies have suggested that mold exposure may increase the risk of seizures in susceptible individuals.
It is important to note that not all individuals who are exposed to mold will experience these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary widely. If you are experiencing symptoms that you believe may be related to mold exposure, it is important to seek medical attention and to address any potential sources of mold in your environment.
How does exposure to mold affect the adrenal system
Exposure to mold can potentially affect the adrenal system, which is responsible for producing hormones that help the body respond to stress.
Mold exposure can trigger an immune response in the body, leading to the release of inflammatory substances such as cytokines and histamines. These substances can trigger the release of stress hormones such as cortisol from the adrenal glands.
However, chronic exposure to mold can lead to a condition called chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS), which is caused by a dysregulated immune response to biotoxins from mold and other sources. CIRS can lead to dysfunction of the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, which is the system that regulates the release of cortisol from the adrenal glands. This can result in adrenal fatigue, a condition in which the adrenal glands become exhausted and produce insufficient amounts of cortisol.
Symptoms of adrenal fatigue can include fatigue, weakness, difficulty handling stress, and disrupted sleep patterns, among others. However, it is important to note that adrenal fatigue is not a recognized medical condition by all healthcare professionals, and the concept is somewhat controversial.
If you suspect that you have been exposed to mold and are experiencing symptoms related to the adrenal system, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Gastrointestinal diseases caused by mold exposure
Exposure to mold can potentially cause a range of gastrointestinal symptoms in some people. This is because certain types of mold produce mycotoxins, which are toxic substances that can cause a variety of health effects when ingested or inhaled.
Some common gastrointestinal symptoms associated with mold exposure include:
1. Nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Diarrhea
4. Abdominal pain
5. Loss of appetite
6. Weight loss
In some cases, mold exposure can also lead to more serious gastrointestinal conditions, such as:
1. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
2. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
3. Gastrointestinal bleeding
It's important to note, however, that not everyone who is exposed to mold will experience these symptoms, and the severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the individual and the type and amount of mold exposure. If you suspect that you have been exposed to mold and are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of Mold exposure
Level I
Early Mold Exposure Symptoms
* Headaches
* Eye Irritation
* Sneezing
* Itching
* Skin Redness
* Skin Rash
Level II
Advanced Mold Exposure Symptoms
* Breathing Disorders
* Nose Bleeds
* Ear Infections
* Chronic Sinusitis
* Chronic Bronchitis
* Pain in Muscles and Joints
* Asthma
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Coughing up Blood or Black Looking Debris
* Neurological Disorders
* Nervous Disorders
* Heart Palpitations
* Blurred Vision
* Swollen Glands
* Weight Loss
* Chronic Fatigue
* Loss of Appetite
* Depression
* Open Skin Sores or Lesions
* Fungal Nails (Hands or Feet)
* Sexual Dysfunction
* Thyroid Conditions
Level III
Late Mold Exposure Symptoms
* Blindness
* COPD
* Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis
* Histoplasmosis
* Memory Loss (long-term)
* Bleeding lungs
* Kidney Failure
* Liver disease
* Cancer
* Death
Level 1 exposure
Early mold exposure. Long term mold exposure is often misdiagnosed for many reasons.
First you may not know you have been exposed to high levels of mold from a water damaged building.
These level one exposures are oftentimes diagnosed as allergies, common cold, seasonal flu, or a form of dermatitis. You may be treated with antibiotics, or other medications depending on your symptoms. These will relieve your symptoms, and you will feel better. You may not have any symptoms for a period of time, because of the medications, but also the time of year, as we open windows in the summer and allow changes to the air within our homes. You can still be exposed as you run air conditioning and close windows in the summer.
Level 2 exposure
Advanced mold exposure symptoms
As your sickness and exposure increase your symptoms change and become more severe and harder to diagnose. Your P*P will now send you to a specialist for further evaluation.
You may see a number of doctors for each different symptom you may have.
These doctors will examine you and treat you for the condition you have with medication that will ease your symptoms. Again you as a patient are unaware of your mold exposure or how long you have been exposed, neither does your doctor.
As with level one exposure these symptoms can mimic other illnesses. Many times you may experience an inflammatory reaction and are treated with steroids or cortisol’s. These medications reduce inflammation, but may suppress the immune system’s ability to fight infections, and allow toxins to spread to other organs. Kidneys, liver, and digestive system are targets as the body naturally responds to these toxins. As the body becomes less able to regulate its immune systems it becomes more susceptible to these toxins, and becomes more serious to your health.
Level 3 exposure
Late mold exposure symptoms.
Depending on how long you have been exposed, and your exposure sensitivity, you can reach this threshold. This is the most critical stage of the illness, and also the most difficult to treat. As with the other levels some can be attributed to lifestyle, such as COPD from smoking, Kidney and liver disease from Alcohol consumption, or poor diet, or family history of cancers.
Left untreated mold illness can exacerbate existing diseases and can lead to cancer and death.
Diagnosis and treatment of mold sickness
Diagnosing mold sickness is often difficult because it can mimic many other illnesses. Mold is often referred to as the great masquerader.
A number of different tests are required together to determine whether mold is present in the body.
Blood tests can look for antibodies related to mold, IG G, IG A, IG M, and IG E can detect the bodies immune response to the toxins produced by molds found in water damaged buildings. These tests can produce negative results if the person is not sensitive to mold, which is why multiple tests are required
Skin tests for allergic reactions to molds are another test that will assist with diagnosis, however you may not test positive if you are not one of the 26% of the population that is susceptible to mold.
Urine test can be used to check for fungal infections caused by mold such as
candidiasis.
Nasal swab should be done to identify any fungus that remains in the sinus passageway which can pe*****te into the soft tissues of the sinuses and cause infections to ears and eyes. These tests are not commonly done by doctors.
Sputum testing should be conducted to address any fungus in the throat, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract. Funguses in this area can be absorbed in the digestive system and can spread through the body causing inflammation, and secondary infections.
X Rays and CT and MRI scans can detect abnormalities in the respiratory system, and if any exist further testing may be required to determine the abnormalities.
A Bronchial Scope may be used to look into the lungs and if possible remove a piece of the abnormality for pathology testing.
Mycotoxins testing of the blood to identify mycotoxins and bacteria that are known to be produced by molds in water damaged buildings. Mycotoxins are absorbed by the blood and can travel through the body to other organs causing multiple infections and other health issues. These tests are fairly new and not recognized at this time by most doctors.
Mycotoxins are a secondary metabolite of mold spores; in other words, they are what mold spores produce to weaken and destroy your health. Mycotoxins are very strong and powerful and destructive to our organs and systems.
Mycotoxins can cause diverse and powerful toxic effects. They are:
• Carcinogenic: cause cancer
• Hepatoxic: toxic to the liver
• Immunotoxic: toxic to the immune system
• Dermatoxic: toxic to skin
• Teratogenic: cause fetal abnormalities
• Neurotoxic: toxic to the brain and nervous system
• Estrogenic: cause elevated levels of estrogen
• Hemorrhagic: cause internal bleeding and bruising
• Nephrotoxic: toxic to kidneys
• Mutagenic: cause genetic abnormalities
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO HAVE A BLOOD ANTIBODY TEST FOR OCHRATOXIN
This mycotoxin’s major targets are:
• Liver
• Kidney
• Brain
• Skeletal muscle
• Fat tissue
• Ochratoxin crosses the placenta.
• The highest Ochratoxin levels is found in breast milk
Studies have shown it causes leaky gut syndrome and changes what you absorb from the foods you eat.
ANOTHER EXAMPLE: TRICHOTHECENE MYCOTOXINS
These mycotoxins are produced by the molds Stachybotrys chartarum, Fusarium, Trichoderma, and other molds. These mycotoxins are extremely toxic to humans and these are the most important ones:
• Satratoxin
• Verrucarin
• T-2 Toxin
• Vomitoxin
TESTING
Blood tests for mycotoxins have been used for the last 20 years and are highly accurate. The specificity and sensitivity of blood serum testing for the presence of IgG and IgE antibodies to mycotoxins in the blood are very high.
We test for IgG and IgE antibodies for 12 mycotoxins for a total of 24 test results.
Mycotoxins from:
• Penicillium (mycophenolic acid)
• Alternaria
• Aspergillus (gliotoxin)
• Stachybotrys
• Cladosporium
• Aspergillus auto-toxin
• Aspergillus/Penicillium neurotoxic mycotoxin
• Ochratoxin
• Satratoxin
• T-2 Toxin
• Vomitoxin
• Verrucarin and verrucarol
Penicillium produces mycophenolic acid, patulin, and gliotoxin.
Alternaria produces alternariol and gliotoxin
Vascular system (increased vascular fragility, hemorrhage into body tissues, or from lung: satratoxin.
Digestive system (diarrhea, vomiting, intestinal hemorrhage, liver effects, caustic effects on mucous membranes: T-2 toxin; anorexia: vomitoxin.
Respiratory system: respiratory distress, bleeding from lungs: trichothecenes.
The nervous system, tremors, incoordination, depression, headache, tremors, seizures: trichothecenes.
Cutaneous system (Skin): rash, burning sensation sloughing of skin, photosensitization: trichothecenes.
Reproductive system; infertility, changes in reproductive cycles: T-2 toxin.
Immune system: changes or suppression: many mycotoxins.
SYMPTOMS OF BEING AFFECTED BY MYCOTOXINS:
• Fatigue
• Short term memory loss
• Brain "fog"
• Headaches
• Easily confused
• Blurred vision or visual episodes
• Seizures
• Loss of equilibrium
• Feeling "spaced out"
• Muscles and joint aches and pains
• Intolerance of bright lights
• Decreased libido
• Sores that will not heal, rashes
• Shortness of breath
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Mood swings, personality changes
• Tremors
• Abdominal pain and discomfort
• Hair Loss
• Numbness and Tingling in hands/feet
• Nosebleeds
• Chronic sinusitis, severe nasal allergies
• Sleep disturbance
• Painful lymph nodes
• Low-grade fever or feeling hot often
• Uncomfortable or frequent urination
And:… pets get sick too…
LYME DISEASE
Many patients suffering from chronic Lyme disease may actually have mycotoxicosis. The symptoms are very alike, and when the treatment for Lyme, which is a bacteria, fails to help a person the reason may be that it is actually mycotoxins causing the problem.
AUTISM (ASD)
Children with autism frequently have elevated mycotoxin antibody levels as reported in a recent study of 172 autistic children. These antibody levels are included in the mycotoxin serum blood test panel.
MYCOTOXINS ARE LINKED TO MANY OTHER ILLNESSES:
Alzheimer's disease: exposure to molds and mycotoxins have been linked to Alzheimer's disease.
Asthma: frequently asthma is a result of exposure to molds and mycotoxins, especially in children but also in adults.
Fungal sinusitis: it has been demonstrated in studies that molds cause sinusitis and are much more common than was believed.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): studies have shown that exposure to molds and mycotoxins is a risk factor in MS.
Obesity: the effects of mycotoxins on the gut bacteria (gut microbiome) can and frequently results in obesity.
URINE TESTING FOR MOLD IS USELESS
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization has estimated that 25% of the world’s crops, such as nuts, cereals, and rice are contaminated by mold. Low levels of mycotoxins are found in many foods: cereals, meat, fruits, nuts, wine, beer, coffee, etc. For that reason, mycotoxins can be found in the urine in parts per billion in healthy people. Laboratories offering urine mycotoxin testing are measuring this minute amount. Furthermore, some mycotoxins cannot be measured in urine, such as Ochratoxin. Almost all of the Ochratoxin in your body is very tightly attached to your body’s main protein, albumin, so it can’t be excreted through the kidneys. Even so, there are laboratories offering urine testing for Ochratoxin, which is useless.
WHY TESTING FOR IgG MOLDS IS NOT HELPFUL
Testing for antibodies to molds does not help at all. Say a person is 45 years old and went to summer camp for a couple of weeks when they were 12 years old. Let’s say that the room that person slept in a summer camp that had mold. That person’s immune system will build antibodies to those molds and they will always be present in the blood. So doing blood tests for molds doesn’t help in WHEN the person was affected by molds, which could have been years ago. Mycotoxins, being toxins made by molds, is much more relevant in medicine to see if a person is affected by them.
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