Are you recovering from a toxic mold exposure? Wondering about treatment options?
The following is an overview designed to stimulate further research rather than suggest a particular protocol. Genetics, finances, circumstances, and individual physical needs play a role in determining the best choice.
Toxic Mold Treatment Options
Drug Options
Cholestyramine (CSM)
CSM is the most commonly prescribed drug for mold exposure. CSM is a bile acid sequestrant, which binds bile in the gastrointestinal tract to prevent its reabsorption. It also works as a mycotoxin binding agent. CSM can be compounded to contain no sugar.
It is important to take CSM two hours before or after any nutritional supplements, as it will bind these as well.
(Welchol is a similar binding agent and may be prescribed instead of CSM.)
* Natural binding agents are suggested below.
Antifungal drugs. These include the plyenes, the triazoles and imidazoles, allylamines and more. Nystatin is an example of an antifungal drug. Antifungal drugs may be taken in nasal spray form.
Low-dose Naltrexone. Naltrexone is an opioid receptor, antagonist. Low-dose Naltrexone (LDN) has been shown to be effective in treating immunologically related disorders.
To find a doctor, check the list of physicians on the American Academy of Environmental Medicine website. The level of knowledge regarding toxic mold varies. Other resources include the American Board of Environmental Medicine, which is currently working on an online list of physicians, and the Institute for Functional Medicine.
Natural Options (often integrated with conventional medical therapies)
Natural binding agents include the following:
- Activated Charcoal (One source is Buy Activated Charcoal)
- Guggul resin
- Chlorella
- Bentonite Clay ( I like Living Clay)
- Zeolite ( Water is often used in the mining process. Choose a mold-free version. I like Pure Zeolite)
Garlic, oil of oregano, pau d’arco, olive leaf extract, caprylic acid (found in coconuts), barberry, and grapefruit seed extract are some of the natural antifungals.
Dr. Grace Ziem’s Chemical Injury website contains a nutritional and environmental protocol for chemical injury.
Glutathione is your body’s master antioxidant. Glutathione therapy is often vital to recovery. Coffee enemas can help boost glutathione levels. See Health Benefits of Coffee Enemas.
Skin Remedies
Rashes often appear during mold exposure, as well as during the detox process. (See some of our rashes in the Detox Rashes.
Ketoconazole cream is a topical antifungal cream. Other skin remedies include tea tree oil, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, and grapefruit seed extract (diluted).
Charcoal soap can be used as a detox agent. It can be combined with ketoconazole shampoo lather. I created a chemical-free charcoal soap specifically for mold detox. Skin Deep charcoal soap can be found at Just So Natural Products.
Epsom salt baths are helpful. For more detox bath alternatives, see this list and the article Healing Baths.
Antifungal Diet
One goal of an antifungal diet is to starve the fungus, thereby halting the cycle that often occurs. Sugars and processed carbohydrates feed the fungus. Natural health expert Dr. Joseph Mercola discusses the benefits of an antifungal diet in his article titled Forget Antibiotics, Steroids, and Medication – Starve This Toxin Out of Your Body.
For a helpful comparison of various antifungal diets, including a downloadable chart, see the post 5 Gut Restoration Diets Compared.
Brain Retraining
The entire body is impacted by mold exposure. Digestive tracts are hit hard, and so are endocrine systems. The brain is invariably involved. Brain retraining programs often play a part in recovery.
Brain retraining options include:
***I write more about my brain retraining experience in the post How and Why I Learned to Breathe.
Alternative Health Options
A wide variety of alternative health options exist. Practitioners may not be familiar with the specifics of mold exposure but can address the need to detox.
These are a few of the numerous options available: orthospinology, (a chiropractic option), energy medicine, acupuncture, IV therapies, chelation therapies, far infrared sauna, ionic foot baths, and much, much more.
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment has been shown to improve the brain function of mold exposed individuals. (See Improvement of Attention Span and Reaction Time with Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment in Patients with Toxic Injury Due to Mold Exposure.)
Induced sweating through exercise and/or sauna offers unique benefits, according to Dr. Janette Hope. In her paper “A Review of the Mechanism of Injury and Treatment Approaches for Illness Resulting from Exposure to Water-Damaged Buildings, Mold, and Mycotoxins,” Dr. Hope notes that “induced sweating will likely reduce the total overall body burden of toxins and support recovery in persons made ill from exposure to water-damaged buildings.”
Electromagnetic Radiation Awareness
Mold-exposed individuals will do well to reduce exposure to electromagnetic fields. The stress of everyday exposures can impede the recovery process and exacerbate symptoms. Consider reducing your use of wireless radiation in the form of cell phones and Wi-Fi. If possible, hardwire your computer and return to a landline for phone communication. Pay particular attention to nighttime exposures and keep all devices away from your body. Turn off all routers at night or when not in use. See Sleep, Melatonin, and Electronic Devices.
Online Support:
Important Notes
A healing crisis can occur as the detox from mold exposure begins. This is a “Herx Reaction”, an increase in the symptoms caused by toxic circulation and inflammation. It is, therefore, not unusual to get worse before getting better. (See Detoxing for Dummies.)
Nursing mothers need to exercise caution when detoxing. Consult with a qualified medical professional and remember that less can be more when it comes to detox.
If you have left a mold environment, you have already begun treatment. It’s easy to feel a sense of urgency when sorting through the various options. Mold avoidance is an excellent step.
As you weigh your options, consider spending time outdoors. If an indoor environment can make us sick, then prolonged periods of outdoor time can surely help. Many mold-injured individuals experience improved health with camping and reconnecting with nature. (See How and Why I Learned to Spend Time Outdoors.)
If you are overwhelmed as you consider all of these options, remember that recovery takes time. Trust your instincts. Never underestimate the value of the simple process of deep breathing. Begin with mold avoidance and diet as you consider the next step on your journey to recovery.
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Nice. What about welchol for those who csm.is too strong for. Why isnt shoemaker info here?
REALLY NICE SITE..GOOD,IMPIRTANT,INFO EASY TO SEE EVENIF YOU ARE FOGGY. NOT OVERWHELMING FOR NEWBIES. TY
Thanks for the reminder about Welchol. I will add that! I’m staying very general in this article and not pointing to any specific protocol or doctor. Glad it’s readable!
The one thing that I started with for the first six months and made a huge difference for me is a supplement the gives my body what it needs to raise my intracellular glutathione called RiboCeine. I became mostly bedridden after living in a very old house filled with mold over 20 years ago. Last year, I was able to go to Disney and do so many other things that I had given up on. It allowed my body to finally start detoxing. It has changed my life. It would be at the top of my list.
Great! Thanks for chiming in on this, Michelle. Great to know.
Riboceine has not worked for most that I know(including myself)that have used it. My extremely experienced mold doctor does not recommend it based on multiple patient experiences.
Do not trust positive online “reports” for this product as many of these are posted by the distributors of the product.
I have experienced regular NAC at 1/10th of the price to work just as well.
Hey Michelle, how long were you exposed to the mold? Did you experience any adverse reactions/symptoms during the detox process? Lastly, how long did it take to get your quality of life back?
Hi Andrea,
Great website – one of the best mold articles I’ve come across on the internet.
I’m a young 26 year-old male who was living in a moldy basement for 3+ years and had previous exposure to it for 10+ years (as a kid). Have chronic fatigue, acne, headaches, and a feverish feeling. My doctor and I (a Shoemaker doctor) concluded it’s mold after running several tests and NOTHING coming back positive (no viruses, etc).
Anyway, I’m on charcoal, clay, glutathione now. Strict diet or little sugars and no bread, carbs, etc. Also on a nasal regimen (EDTA / Ampho B – by Dr. Joseph Brewer). Only a month in though, so no major results yet – but I do get a reaction to the spray (which is reassuring!).
Any other products you’ve heard of that mold patients found success with?
Luckily I found a great doctor who is helping me, but just wanted to look around and see what has been used by other mold victims.
Thanks again, and thanks for the excellent website!
JL
Sounds like you’re on the right path, JL. I haven’t found any single supplement or treatment option that turned us around. I will say that time is your friend. The coffee enemas were #1 for me to become functional again, but even that didn’t lead to a quick turnaround. It took me two years to feel like I had turned the corner. Everyone is different of course and you’re much younger. The other aspect of recovery that I wish I had considered was sleeping near electric fields. Sleep is the best recovery time and sometimes the stress of devices adds to the burden. I have an article on creating a sleep sanctuary that may be helpful for you. All the best to you!
Where can I read your article on a sleep sanctuary?
Hi Bonnie. I think this is the one you’re wanting. http://it-takes-time.com/2015/07/31/sleep-and-technology/
I am an Older Woman who has been sleeping in a finished basement for at least 10 years. Got sick very slowly with all kinds of symptoms. I am so glad I came across this web site! It is very easy reading and also easy to understand. Not sure what direction I am going in, just know that I Need to do something soon. Thanks so much!
Let me know if I can help, further Christine. Glad you’ve made this connection between environment and health. Sometimes it does come on very slowly.
I’d love to know more about how CholestePure helps to detox mould from the body?
Im not sure structurally that is even close to CSM, so im trying to understand how it specifically gets the mold toxins out of the body.
I would love if this natural alternative was as effective as i generally do not do well with pharmaceutical.
Have any others found that it has helped them with binding/detoxing mould?
This is a great question, Keny! I’m not sure of the answer, just mentioned it because I have known others to take it. If I learn something new I will let you know. You might find this video by Dave Asprey helpful.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mj887Hk621E
Andrea-
Can you list the things of most importance you feel helped you recover from Lyme mold and mcs?
Did you do hyperbaric or sauna . I know everyone of us is different but hearing what’s helped you recover gives us all old and direction:)
All the best!
Andrea
Hi Andrea. I never did hyperbaric, but did get a sauna. My top 3 in order are: coffee enemas, grain-free and fruit-free diet and time outdoors in natural sunlight. Most of all, it has been time. It took me quite awhile to feel like I was on the other side. There has been no one treatment that turned it around for me.
Hi Andrea,
I am inspired to turn my life and health around after years of living in a moldly house after reading your story! I have sinced moved out, but unfortunately still carrying some stuff from the old house that I can not get rid of (a lot of porous items such as important papers/documents, clothings…)
I am turning to mold detox diet now in hopes of having some kind of freedom from it… Please advise what to do! Any advise/suggestion is welcomed! Can you please email me your answers, thanks.
Hi Ashley,
This is my direct email: andrea@it-takes-time.com I’ll be sure to email you too.
My boyfriend and i recentky discovered mold in our rental house. I have been sick for a year and now he is too with multiple symptoms. We are moving this week and have gotten rid of most of our unwashable possessions. However i too must hold onto some things like important paperwork. Will the mold spores eventually die after removing paperwork from the infected environment? And what about appliances and electronics? We cant afford to replace everything right away but also don’t want to take infested belongings with us to our new “clean ” home. PLEASE HELP!!!
Andrea, the best option is to store your things and bring them in one at a time. You’re wise to be concerned about bringing this problem with you. This post should help: http://it-takes-time.com/2016/02/toxic-mold-and-possessions-2.html
Thanks for posting this! I myself have been sick for 18 years. Trying to get out of a house we’ve lived in 21 years. Builder errors created numerous areas of mold hidden inside walls and A/C which get discovered every few years.
It is unbelievable to me that not one doctor in 16 years considered an environmental cause! Some years ago I began asking my doctors about mold and they all said that could not be the cause. I finally found a doctor that treats mold and began the process of remediation and detox.
By the way, I had three different air tests from two different companies that all showed normal results. Air testing for mold is notorious for producing false negatives. An ERMI test on housedust is the only way to go! It checks for many different molds and the results include a graph showing how your results compare to other homes tested. Several companies offer the kits online.
Yes, momsAWARE sells the ERMI and the HERTSMI dust tests. So glad you mentioned them. Dust tells much more of the story than an air sample. So glad you have found answers, Abby.
Andrea,
I’m 26 and have been ill for a long time. CFS, head pressure/toxicity, BP issues, visual pixelation, the list goes on. I’ve done Dr. S mold testing and find I have a homozygeous HLA genotype for mold susceptible. My labs show I’ve got inflammation going on.
My question to you is this…..Every once in a while, regardless of where I seem to be, I will get a random ‘sense’ or experience of mold deep in my sinuses (like I stuck my nose in a damp carpet). It’s not actually a smell in the front of my nose. No one around me can smell it. I did clear MARCoNS from my sinuses (could it have come back?) and our house tests ok on the Hertsmi test. I don’t go out much. I had been doing the Dr. Brewer nasal wash w/ Ampho B and EDTA but have sort of given up after a few months of no results.
Do you have any idea what could be going on so I can figure out what to do? I’d appreciate any thoughts you can share on this.
Thanks!!
Hmmm. I’m not sure on this Jameson. This is a long journey for many. One more aggravation can be proximity to cell towers, smart meters or high-power voltage lines. These stress the immune system and can keep us weighed down. I assume you’ve done an anti-fungal diet. You’ll get to the bottom of it. It’s so very difficult to get answers to these types of issues.
Get a CT scan. It will show the mold in the sinus, mine was in Sphenoid sinus. Then they operated and took it out. I have no sinus infections and no brain fog now. Also no headache on top of my scull and no neck pain now. I could tell when I woke up in recovery room and I could finally think and not have brain fog.
Hello Sue, was the mold in your sinuses diagnosed as marcons? I have been struggling with this for some time. Also, do you mind if I ask how severe your brain fog was from this condition and how long you experienced these symptoms before getting the operation?
My husband found mold in the AC of the rental house we are currently living in. With this being the last month of our year lease, we are planning on moving. The past 2 weeks I’ve been having many symptoms of mold exposure. I’m breastfeeding a 15week old baby. What do you recommend to help rid mold from body that’s safe while nursing? I already started Spirulina and Chlorella.
Activated charcoal can be safe from what I understand, but when nursing it’s probably best to get the advice of a practitioner you trust. You’ll want to be cautious with your belongings as I’m sure you’re already aware. Mold avoidance is a very solid treatment in an of itself, so you’re on the right track, Sarah.
Thank you for responding. Unfortunately we do not have a practitioner to work with. The closest one is 2 hours away. But we are trying to move closer to that area. Trying to eliminate mold feeders from my diet, a little at a time, as to not put my body into a major detox. My husband and I have already determined that we will have to depart with the majority of our belongings. But the health of our family is way more important than our stuff. We can replace all that. Thank you again for your time. I signed up to receive your posts. Please send any suggestions, we welcome any advice.
Sarah,
Sounds like you’re doing great with all of this. Let me know if there is anything more I can do to support you both.
Hi,
My 11 year old son has Lymes Disease & PANS, (we only found out 2 yrs ago & probably had since was about 4). We had ERMI tests done and nasal swab showing Marcons in his sinuses. Currently on Welchol 2 times a day and BEG spray 2 sprays 3 times a day. How can I give him Welchol 2 hrs before and after other supplements when he is at camp and school? Any other suggestions because it doesn’t seem to be working fast. Only saw tiny results after increasing BEG spray to 2 sprays 3 times a day. In the past charcoal and Epsom salt bags seemed to help. Cranial sacral massage helped a lot and chiropractor. What are your thoughts on Himalayan salt caves and or lamps for the mold in his sinuses? Also I am so grateful for any and all suggestions for getting rid of mold!
Thanks!!! Bonnie
Do you have the ERMI results that you can email me? I’d be curious to see the types of mold found in the home. It’s so tough to sort through all of this – I completely understand. andrea@it-takes-time.com
Why is Welchol needed while on BEG spray?
I’m not directly familiar with this protocol so I really can’t answer. This document may help answer this:
http://www.survivingmold.com/docs/McMahon_11_Step_Biotoxin_Elimination_Pathway_Essay.pdf
My girlfriend and I have been living in a buidling for the last six months and have recently discovered our place has been full of water damage and have mold growing in our ceilings our walls and behind the shower and toilet and under the sinks in the plumbing for the last 4 months i have had severe sinitus was on antibiotics for it and was getting no results, we would sleep 8 to 10 hours a night wake up and feel exausted all day, it got so bad my anxiety went threw the roof and begun having massive panic attacks along with alot of other symptoms dihrea ect, just a week ago we found out how bad our place was. We have a mold inspector coming in this monday, so we shall see what happens with that. As soon as we relized how bad it was we left and are currently staying with family until we move sept 10th. In just one week of being out of the enviroment we feel we can breath easier we are getting better night sleeps and we are both detoxing our bodys and loading are bodies with vitamins and minerals, epson salt baths every night and we are slowly seeing results. Its frustrating especially not knowing we were being exposed to this toxicity. We are still looking for tips on ways to make ourselves healthy and to fight off this fungus so any ideas would be very helpful.
Hi Sean. I’m so glad you made this connection! Anxiety was a huge symptom for us. You’ll want to be cautious with your belongings and as far as treatment, this post offers a wide range of options. Mold avoidance is the first line of defense and diet is also effective. Sounds like you’re on a good path. If I can help along the way, be sure to let me know. This is my direct email address: andrea@it-takes-time.com
Great article and website! Do you know if any herbs can be helpful with mold exposure? I am moving out on Wednesday from our rental but we are taking most of our belongings with us since the air results showed low levels of mold.
Do you know if steam-cleaning couches help at all? Any ideas how to clean furniture, etc without using chemicals to clean? Any tips on cleaning would be great!
Jess,
This article should help you with this:
http://it-takes-time.com/2016/02/toxic-mold-and-possessions-2.html
If there have been serious health issues with this mold exposure, you’ll want to be extra cautious with your belongings, as air sampling often misses some of these hazardous types of mold.
This is a great article and I hope you have figured out the what to do with your possessions. My source of mold was not from a water damage but old and semi old books, and we had over 6 big bookcases in the house. The best immediate relief I got was when we removed all the books, bookcases, fabric sofa, dining chairs, mattresses and down (non cottton) blankets from the house. The books, papers, and household chemicals were stored in plastic tubs in the garage. Then I ran winix 555 air purifiers all the time in my room and the living room. We lived without furniture for a few months. I didn’t also get a new mattress for a while since i wasn’t sure if I could handle a new bed and all the chemicals that come with. With all these things gone, my house felt so much better!
I was lucky enough to find a functional doctor and with many tests, we found Lyme, heavy metal poisoning, marcons, leaky gut, glutin sensitivity and mold susceptibility. I’m current on iv treatment that focuses on chelating and adding vitamin c and glutathione.
Like most people here, I tried a bunch of supplements, and what I still take are black seed oil, probiotics, coq10, glutamine, multi vitamins. At one point, I did a mega dose of vitamin D.
I have been actively treating for the mold over 4 months and I feel better and quite functional. My white blood cells have increased. I can go on camping trips but cannot handle hotels yet. The rugs and beddings make me sick. I just ordered DNRS (brain retraining) dvd. I hope that this will put my recovery to the next level.
Thanks for sharing your story, Sharon. Brain retraining is a great next step.
So glad I found this website! Is it normal to have worsening of symptoms on Cholestrymine? I have severe anxiety and tremors. My legs just shake when I’m standing still. Oddly enough though, my brain feels overall better so I know it’s doing something but geez… My body is spazing out!
I remember a similar response to the CSM. Detoxing can be difficult. I’m glad you’ve seen some relief in your brain. Keep watching your responses and listen to your gut instinct about what your body is doing and what it needs. Here’s a bit more about detoxing:
http://it-takes-time.com/2014/02/detoxing-for-dummies.html
Nice to hear from you, Noelle.
How far in should you experience issues on csm? I felt icky the first 2 weeks, but not awful. Then, it suddenly got worse. By day 20, the dizziness was so profound, I stopped. My bilirubin was up higher than usual as well. After stopping, I still feel awful. I don’t know what to do anymore. I’m thick headed, dixzy, nauseous, anxious, and get fatigued so suddenly that I have to lay down immediately. I’m terribly depressed. I can’t function anymore.
Hi Stacie,
We were only on CSM a couple of months. I would listen to your body and your gut instincts on this…Recovery is a process and very much integrated with learning what works for you. We have found acupuncture and herbs as well as brain retraining to be extremely effective…without the CSM. But everyone is different.
Great information! Could you elaborate on brain retraining and how to go about doing this?
Thank You
I have a post coming on brain retraining through breathing. Either of the programs linked above will go into detail on their websites.
Hi, I just wanted to chime in for those that may be in a similar situation to mine. I’ve been exposed to mold for 10 years. seven in m first apartment then three in this apartment. I lost my job due to mold illness and have zero income now. I’m living in an apartment that has mold and I can’t afford to move until March 2017 because I can’t get out of the lease and I can’t find a place that doesn’t require I make 3 rimes the monthly rent. So I’m stuck here for a few more months. I found a product that actually encapsulates the mold and kills the mold spores in the air. It really works, but I only plan to use it until I can finally move out of the environment. the product is called http://concrobium.com/and its very inexpensive. It can be found at Walmart and most local home improvement store for less than $10. I’m also renting a cold air machine to spray the entire apartment. Hope this helps someone else.
Thank you for this article on mold treatment!
Is it necessary for one to go on the prescription medication for detoxing from mold, or can a person detox with nature products. I have read about how important it is to do a certain detox protocol.
We have already spent quite a bit on moving from our moldy environment. Beside all of the cost, I would prefer to detox naturally.
Thank you again, Angela L.
I’ve heard of many who only used natural. We tried CSM for several months and decided to go with alternative. Everyone is different.
Thank you,
I wanted to make a wise decision I didn’t want to exclude a treatment if it is the only true way to detox. I don’t want to find out that I have cancer some day because I did not take cholestyramine.
Frankly, Since I have moved out of the moldy environment I find that I am feeling better, the anxiety is not there and sinus swelling and pain is much better as long as I keep taking fish oil, olive leaf powder, quercetin, bromelain, and swabbing my sinuses with Tea Tree oil, and olive oil. I have also started taking Noni juice.
I am afraid to go on a prescription because I don’t want to go through more of the above reactions if detoxing naturally is an option.
Thanks again for all of your work on this topic, it is a true blessing!
It’s important to listen to your instincts and your body, Angela. Leaving the environment is a “treatment” as you’re describing.
Hi,i have been bartending at a resturant that has a very small service bar.I believe since 0ct. Or Nov 2016. From the first night there I saw black mold everywhere.Slimmy and gross!!! I started right way cleaning it up,with just hot water and Windex.Inside our coolers for the beer and wine,standing water and black mold floating around.I cleaned it up the best i could.I started getting really sick and all over body pain with various symptoms last three months.I already diagnosed with RA,and Sygreons before working there.Pain was getting so bad and I would be wiped out everynohht after working there.Was coming down to only being able to get up go to work.Went to my RA and was diagnosed with Fibromiaglia.The next week,from it raining all day,i went into liquor storage room to get stock.The minute i walked in,the ceiling fell in on my head.The white tile hit me first,than a big heavy metal box hit me on the head and top shoulder.I went to ER got a cat scan,was a concession.Returned to work a day later,have been working sick,with headaches,body pain.Now I’m off last two days,black floating web in my right eye,non-stop headaches,dizziness,blurry vision,very weak.Feeling of pressure,head and eye. Confusion,memory problemns.Sick at my stomach all the time.This happen March 1,2017.I now filed workmans comp,and am starting to get tested.I know the head injury is a big problem,but I believe with all the black mold I’m constantly fighting to clean up,this could be alot of my other sickness.I also have fuzzy brain ,like i don’t think clear.Any advice on where to start to get this mold level tested,I’m in Illinois,South of Chicago.I have to find out if workmans comp will pay for me to be tested for the mold,plus a prationer who will test.Any advice would be helpful.Thank you so much for your wealth of info,and sharing to help those of us who would have never thought of mold sickness.God Bless…
You’re on the right track with all of this. It might be best to email me directly andrea@it-takes-time.com. Here is an article on workman’s comp regarding mold that might help: http://it-takes-time.com/2016/04/12/toxic-mold-in-the-workplace/
I wish I had the money to see a ND but since we are moving money is tight and my insurance doesn’t not cover ND visits. So I’ve been searching around d for some advice on how to treat myself here. I’m almost certain I’ve been exposed to mold. I’ve always known I had a mold allergy. For the past 6 months I’ve been very foggy headed, had bad body aches, I feel feverish every now and then, headaches and facial sinus pressure, and always tired. I’ve been to two different ENT’s where one said nothing is wrong with you kid…and the other gave me Flonase which did nothing.
So I ended up making an appointment at a sinus center where they did and CT scan of my sinuses and ruled sinus problems out. I had a physical and took several blood tests and everything checked out good. I went to an orthopedic and started physical therapy because my body is so tight. Finally the sinus specialist referred me to a neurologist where she is treating me with an anti seizure med for the pressure that I’m experiencing because she says they are migraines. I have a MRI and MRV (spinal tap to measure the pressure in my head) scheduled this weekend. I have an appointment scheduled with an allergist coming up as well. I purchased activated charcoal, oregano oil, spirulina, and Chlorella. Is that good enough to detox?
That’s such a complex question, Melody. Feel free to email me directly andrea@it-takes-time.com Trust your gut when trying to piece all this together as to what your body needs. It’s so tough to navigate I know.
Andrea, thank you for this information. I have been trying to recover from a severe mold exposure from my former home for the past 6 months. I renovated the home in 2012 and 3 months later I became ill. It was a gradual decline and I thought it was just my adrenals having had an issue years prior. Now I know it was mold all along as in 2016 I discovered mold behind the walls in the insulation. I suspect a great deal of the house was sick. I was perfectly healthy prior to this. My son who never had health issues prior also began to get sick shortly after the renovations with constant nose bleeds, sinus infections, high fevers, random morning throwing up. My symptoms were crazed fatigue, sleeping all of the time, head pressure and fog to the point I had to stop driving a year ago. I have not been able to work for almost two years. Prior to this I was one of the most energetic productive people I know. Since moving out I have been treating with daily glutathione nebulizer, CSM, AC, bentonite clay, sauna 4-5 times a week, various antifungals, essential oils, the usual vitamins and probiotics. My son has not had one fever since we moved and doesn’t throw up anymore. He still gets sinus infections but is improving and the nosebleeds have stopped. I try to get him to take the same things as I do despite his 17 year old resistance. I have to thank you for your title it takes time because that has been my issue for the past few weeks. I have been feeling so defeated wondering if it will ever really go away so I can work again. I feel like I am doing everything I have learned. It’s been almost 5 years. I just want to get back into the world again but until this fog and pressure lifts, I meditate, do gentle yoga, read, play with my cats and pray. I am considering trying hyperbaric oxygen therapy to see if that will boost my brain. Do you know of any others that have had success with that and also I wanted to ask how long it took you to recover. I realize everyone is different. Is there a link to your personal story? Again, I really appreciate your sharing. Thank you so kindly and blessings.
P.S. I lived in this sick house for 15 years in mold unknowingly
I’ve heard great things about the hyperbaric oxygen. For our family, it has been a longer journey than I hoped. But once I embraced the journey and didn’t worry as much about “healing” I felt relief. I asked myself “What if this is the best we get?” I decided I could live with it and that really helped us turn the corner. I stopped “trying” so hard and this letting go seemed to do wonders for me. I still am very intentional about my health, but no longer am thinking about recovery. Everyone is unique. If you haven’t tried the brain retraining mentioned in this post, it could be worth a shot. You’re already practicing some of the principles so I think it would come quite naturally.
Has any used CholestePure? If so what dosage?
Hi Andrea, my husband is convinced he has mold poisoning but his first symptom, cramp in his leg, was after only 4 weeks in the moldy environment. Is it possible to get sick after such a short exposure?
Thank you, Audra
Depending on what types of molds are present, one can be symptomatic in a day. Absolutely. It’s wise to consider the environment when evaluating health issues.
Thank you for the reply. Have you heard about amonia baths to draw out toxins? 30 gallons of water with 2 cups of 3% amonia soaking for 20 minutes twice a day? What are your thoughts on why toxic me lad exposure is not accepted or studied by western medicine? We’ve been to the ER 8 times in the last year and everyone blooms at my husband funny when he goes over his symptoms and says he believes it’s mold. We had his office tested and it had both aspergillosis and stackybatris(I’m sure the spelling is not correct) but both are toxic. He’s on a no sugar-no carb diet, spent near 60 hours in the hyperbaric chamber and has tangent almost every supplement mention ironed on any mold blog but the cholestraymine. Not sure what to do next. His first symptom showed up after a month but he didn’t know it was mold and worked in that office for almost 5 months.
I assume your house is free of water damage? I assume he is no longer working in this office. He is not crazy that’s for sure. Lots of varied opinions on ammonia baths. Feel free to email me directly andrea@it-takes-time.com
I couldnt tolerate Cholestyramine until I took a week’s worth (1x a day each) of activated charcoal and glucomannan in distilled water. Cholestryamine on its own made me feel better and then intensely exaggerated ADHD, brain fog, and an odd body stink, to the point where I had to give up, before I added in the other binders.
Ran across this site and found it very helpful. I think that i may have mold sickness from living 8-9 years in a house that had been flooded. I have moved but have not started detox asvyet. I have good days and bad days. I sooooo want to feel normal again
I am currently recovering from stage 2 Mycotoxicosis, and our home is being rebuilt after professional mold remediation (Aspergillus penicillium and Stachybotrys charboratum). About 20 supplements I take daily, and follow a very restricted diet. Of all these things, the one thing that I am certain is helping me is eating my daily package of seaweed chips (with sea salt and canola oil). There are expensive seaweed products recommended as binding agents, but this inexpensive snack works well. My MS-like symptoms have gone, but my respiratory health seems grim. There are no environmental physicians in this area, and I have exhausted that avenue. I am hoping that the steamroom and dry sauna I have begun to take will help.
Would love to know more of what you have done as i am sure my ms symptoms are from mold!!!
GREAT article – Ive been dealing with CIRS for 3 years, but just found a mold-literate doc last Feb.
No one seems to be able to answer this question, though: I have an allergy app from WebMD that tracks the OUTDOOR mold levels in my town and they’re always “High” or “Very High”. As much as I want to get sunlight and fresh air and do some earthing, I’m afraid to spend time outside! Is this fear warranted???
I know that during monsoon season here I still spend time outdoors. I don’t know what a medical doctor would tell you, but my gut feeling has been that being outdoors is a good thing. I would go with your gut on this one.
I am wondering which air purifier you use? To remove mold and dust particles. Also, do you find any merit to negative ion generators for improved indoor environment? Thank you
We no longer use an air purifier simply because we have a clean home and do quite a bit of ventilating. In the past I’ve liked the Austin HealthMate – I have no experience with the negative ion generators but they certainly make sense.
I never knew that LDN treated immunologically related disorders. I have a cousin that is suffering from mold toxicity and could probably use this. I’ll have to let him know that there is a medicine out there that can help.
I have major allergic reactions to have been living in a moldy house for 3 months and cleaned some mold up myself and this made me much worse . I’ve been in hell for about 15 days now today I feel a little better , like a human . It’s very painful scary miserable thing to go through . I don’t know if I will be keeping any of my possessions my clothes or anything. The house has been remediated which I can’t stress enough to get a good company to do that. The air-quality test says the sport count is normal now and no toxic mold but when there was toxic mold in the house naturally the spores get into everything and can’t be easily cleaned out a fabrics and carpets . And after going through what I’ve gone through possessions are the least of my concerns the health of myself and my dog is most important. It seems a lot of medical doctors don’t offer any treatment don’t know anything about it then I’ll study that in their schooling. Holistic doctor and a environmental Dr is your best bet . I had about 12 chronic reactions what seem to work for me was if it even worked or is working garlic tablets, aggravated charcoal to find to the toxins in draw them outta the body also ppl say to use seaweed and brown clay I think for that . Lots and lots of vitamin C , probiotics I Understand that mold in the body does not like probiotics. The main thing is to be able to draw those toxins out of your body by binding of them and keeping your immune system very strong. I just began this journey has truly been a nightmare I’ve definitely learned a lot more than I would’ve liked to known about this but today I’m actually able to be out of bed and laugh and smile so I hope this can help someone where I was 15 days ago feeling miserable not having a clue as to what to do. Good luck everyone .
Hello , again
I had Aquarian from my other post but my mind is not working quite right from mold sickness .
For my dog witch has signs what is the thing to do ?
He vet gave her. Antibiotics which from what I understand is counterproductive. I’m giving her vitamin dog treats and probiotic dog treats and she already it’s a really good food. Next question I’m taking activated charcoal and keeping my immune system up should I be getting a prescription to help draw this out of my body even more so? And how do you feel about the IV treatments? Thank you Joe
I have no direct experience with the IV treatments, so I can’t speak to that, Joe. Thanks for sharing your experience, though.
I have mold, lyme and heavy metal poisoning and I have been on IV treatment for the past 4 months. When I saw my doc in late Feb, I was not functional. Severe brain fogs, fatigue, muscle pains, dizziness and chest/lung pains. I could not drive kids to school without chest pains. Now in Sept, my chemical sensitivities are almost gone. My energy level is 80% and I get brain fogs only few times. But I still strong reaction to mold and dustmites and staying at hotels is a challenge.
My IV treatment was adding Vitamin C and trace elements as well as chelating the metals. I think these treatment helped, as I see my blood test results are improving and I’m feeling better. But the most important factor in feeling better was removing all the fabric sofa, dining chairs, mattresses, books, chemicals, rugs out of the house. Also running good air purifiers in living room and bedroom was important. My source of mold was old and semi old books we had for years…
The IV treatment can be a challenge in itself. It’s time consuming as I spend about 1.5hr in the doc’s office each time and depending on how ambitious you are, you’ll be there 1 -3 times a week. Then there are needles. After a while, the veins don’t like the needles and they fight back and it may take more than 1 poke to succeed. My doc said it may take 9-12 months of IV therapy to heal. I certainly want to avoid that so I just ordered the brain retraining DVD. I’m hoping this will speed up the recovery.
The one supplement I felt like made a huge difference was black seed oil. I take the pure form (instead of gel caps), despite the most aweful taste. I felt like it helped me with my energy and also brain fog.
I hope you feel better soon.
I’m terrified at what’s going on in my body. I awoke one morning to a numbness that started at my feet and traveled to my belly button, but absolutely no pain. The neurologist team at the hospital signed off on me after the first MRI, only to request 2more MRI with no significant findings, artifact lesions, nothing new or active. My symptoms remained stable while in the hospital. Less than 24hrs returning home, new symptoms emerged. I finished a 3 day solumed infusion (heavy duty steroids) and now have a hot, swollen, painful rash all over. I feel fine, other than the obvious, and this has everyone scratching their heads.
4yrs ago my home was rebuilt do to a house fire. Thousands of gallons of water were pumped in to extinguish the fire. Original subflooring was left and built upon. There’s still bags of wet, burnt material under the house in the crawl. The HVAC system was installed improperly, so it pulls air from the crawl and redistributes throughout out the home.
My husband was diagnosed 2yrs ago with MS, my daughter has developed severe food allergies and asthma, my little dog just suffered a seizure.
I’ve had my suspicions about mold, but I’m pretty convinced now. The ER Drs think I’m nuts, but at the same time can’t explain what’s happening.
I guess I’m looking for guidance, anything. I live in South East Mi, along the Ohio border. I’ll travel…..
Jeanette,
You are on the right track with this! Can you email me directly when you get a chance? andrea@it-takes-time.com
I am just finding your articles and at 3am (Thank you insomnia) is making me want to cry…this is me completely! after a year of living in a very old home where black mold was visable in all windows and the bathroom when we first moved in (landlord clrabed it but i always wondered if ut was still there) i have been deteriorating health wise very quickly. The house is old and unable to open windows…i also work from home full time so there are days i dont even leave the home. It seems the past 3 weeks have been rapid with the illnesses…panic attacks non stop, dizzy, congested and sinus issues for the whole time ive been here, constant body pain, tired, brain fog bad, joint pain, food sensitivity…and the list goes on. I wondered if the not feeling well was from the mold but brushed it off…now im pretty convinced this is what it is. I honestly thought i was starting to go crazy!
Did you notice inability to perform basic tasks like driving or become extremely forgetful? Notuced you mentioned ringing in the ears was a big symptom for your daughter, along with ither neurological symptoms. Was she able to recover and did each of your family members do the same detox program?
Thank you for any insight you can provide!
My #1 symptom was memory loss and brain fog. I had a very difficult time functioning. I would certainly consider relocating until you can figure this out. You can test the home or assume it’s not a healthy environment for you and seek other options. You’re on the right track. We all did numerous detox treatments. The most effective were mold avoidance (getting away from the home) and diet change. I’m not sure exactly how much the tinnitus improved for my son honestly. He had numerous unfortunate interventions and surgeries that complicated matters. Feel free to email me directly andrea@it-takes-time.com
Hi! Making a long story short. I emailed you last night with all details but I’m getting desperate.
I know my 2 children and I have been exposed to black mold. I found the mold in the bedroom right where we sleep.
We all 3 have the classic symptoms of. Now… We are MOVING this week to safe non mold housing. But….What can my 6 and 2 year old take that will detox them from mold? Anything child friendly on Amazon? Amounts? How long can they take them? I’m ready to go to the ER for answers as our pediatrician only gave me allergy meds and was told “you’ll all be fine.”
Thank you so very kindly! Appreciate any feedback.
Hi just wondering if mold can cause feet spasms? Have had for the past 7 years. In 2010 our bathroom had mold onnthd ceiling and tub wall. It was there for sometime before we fixed it. Judt eondinb how i go about flinging out if thus has caused my severe
Feet spasms.
Absolutely. Inflammation from mold exposure manifests in lots of different ways. It’s certainly valid to consider this.
Had mold exposure for extended period (1-2 years) and have been worried about cross contamination when I relocated. I’ve made some initial progress, however I did bring two TVs from old place and recently put it in the bedroom. After two nights of not so hot rest and feeling crummy, i threw the tv away. I’m not sure if it was cross contamination or just apart of the detox. In the event of cross contamination, do I need to be worried about everything in that bedroom and condo now??
If it were me, I would not worry about cross-contamination. Good job tossing it. I would simply move forward. I would also continue to work toward a sleep sanctuary. Some tips for this are in this post:http://it-takes-time.com/2015/07/31/sleep-and-technology/
Great! Thank you for the input and link. I’ve read both your book and followed your site. You’ve been a source of inspiration in a dark time!
It is a very very tough road. I’m happy to support in any way I can.
About 5 years ago I started getting weak. My nose pours large amounts of mucas. I’m now very weak. Every day Iis like a bad cold or flu. When I get a flu virus I have to go in the hospital. My body temp goes low. Was 95 last time. My lungs are clear. Eyes swollenand burn. Headache. Hot flashes. My muscles and joints ache. I wake up feeling horrible. Brain fog. Memory loss. My nose runs so heavy I keep paper towel with me. I want to take a mold toxicity urine test. Can anyone rrecommend one to order. My doctors never find any problem with labwork.
Are you aware of water damage or mold in your home or place of work? You can test either with an ERMI. There are urine samples available through Real Time Labs and can be ordered through Direct Labs under the allergy section. Look for aflatoxin, ochratoxin and/or trichothecene tests.
Hi Andrea, firstly, thank you for passing your mould related knowledge to us. My name is Peter, I bought 55 year old house in Australia. After living two year me and all my family member started differing with mould infested symptoms. Runny nose, infection in sinus, swelling of inferior turbinate in nose so can’t breath. Abdominal pain. Pain dull pain in lungs, feeling tired all the time. Feeling of fever and rigor without high temp., joint pain. Itchy red eyes, itchy scalp, difficulty breathing during night, headache, became more irritable, Brian fog, memory affected. If we turn left side for sleep then it close left nostril and also same problem with right nostril when I sleep RT nostril. My GP giving us anti histamine for last one year for this problems. Finally he refers to us ENT. Dr said it looks like some sort of allergy and environmental problem. Then I founded some areas of one of roof was covered with dark spot of mould which I clean with bleach water
Also found damp and yellow rounded circle on another room roof. Last winter I closed all air vent inside house with plastic paper and some day I used humidifier that makes worse. Doctor gave steroid sprey for nose but he did not treat fungal infection. When I ask for anti fungal tab such as fluconazole or itraconazole then he refuse to prescribe. Now I am confuse what to do next?,
Move to rental property or check for fungal infection level in house or go for fungas detection test? How to diagnose fungal infection? Which investigation I have to do? Blood, urine, or skin?. Not a doctor or my family member listen to me. Thanks again.
Any advise will be appreciate.
Sounds like you’re on the right track with this. Mold avoidance is one of the first and best treatments – so finding a safe environment is critical. It’s hard because this is not common knowledge, but clearly your gut instinct says this is not a safe house. I would trust that. Sometimes gut instinct is more reliable than testing.
My Dr has me on glucomannon and zeolite three times a day and xylitol Nasal spray for Marconi and green stevia 30 drops twice a day for Lyme. Does this sound about right?
There are so many different protocols that help. If this is helping then that’s a great sign! Trust your instincts as you listen to your body as to what is needed.
I don’t know any specific physicians in that area. Surviving Mold has a list of physicians that you might try. Otherwise, functional medical doctors often understand the nature of environmental illness.
My son has tried almost everything to get better from this. The depression is severe and nothing works. Can you please direct us to a doctor near Spokane, WA area?
Are you familiar with brain retraining? It might be helpful. Mindfulness Based Cognitive Training (MBCT) has been helpful for me. This post talks more about the benefits of focused breathing. http://it-takes-time.com/2018/08/13/how-and-why-i-learned-to-breathe/ It is so tough as a mom.
Hi, I have been on a lyme detox and mold protocol for 4 months. Seeing a functional doctor and taking a lot of different homeopathic supplements to support my immune system and detox. My genetics are not helping me to detox, so I am thinking that it is going to take me a long time to get better. I have been having a lot of sinus pressure, sneezing, sniffling, sore throat and vertigo since I started doing the mold detox. Are these all positive symptoms of detox or another issue? Also, have been thinking of taking charcoal as a binder. The binder I have been using seems to be bothering me.
Anything goes when it comes to detox. It is always hard to know what is going on exactly. I learned to accept the mystery and keep moving forward. Trust your gut when it comes to binders or any other treatment. Keep listening to your body. The brain retraining was hugely helpful for me as well as coffee enemas and antifungal diet.
thank you for your website 12 months ago I had tests done to determine what the mold issues are in the basement…Aspergillus versicolor is detected by a professional air quality and environment person. recently I got very ill and recovered…trying to decide if I should have him come back to re test before the remediation starts since it has been one year?
Not sure on this, Meredith. If proper remediation is done, it’s probably best to test after. A dust sample is preferable to an air sample in the form of an ERMI to see what you’re breathing after. Watch your health as an indicator of how things are going.
Are there any financial options/ assistance for people starting over after mold? We are moving to a new house, and I just don’t know how we could possibly afford to buy new everything, after putting so much into the house itself. It’s overwhelming.
I’m not aware of an assistance option at this time, Emily. It is SO overwhelming. It’s all such a loss and so traumatic.
I’d never had any problem with mold until a shot sent my immune system out of kilter. Now I’m extremely sensitive to mold, I wonder, have you ever researched this connection?
Not specifically, but I assure you that mold wreaks havoc with any impaired immune system.