Is Mold Exposure Making You Sick? 3 Reasons to Get Tested and How Functional Medicine Can Help

Close-up of a woman's hand in yellow rubber gloves cleans the wall from black mold with a special antifungal agent and sponge.Result is before and after, one part of the wall is clean, other is dirty
Medically Reviewed
May 6, 2024

At Nava Health, we see a concerning number of patients struggling with chronic health issues that defy easy diagnosis. Fatigue, headaches, respiratory issues, digestive problems, and even neurological symptoms can leave them feeling lost and frustrated.  

This is one of the reasons our clients seek us out, because they can’t get answers in a conventional medical practice. Often, the culprit behind these seemingly disparate problems hides in plain sight: exposure to mold that results in toxicity.  

Mold is a pervasive fungus that thrives in damp environments.

It can lurk in basements, attics, bathrooms, and even behind walls, spewing out invisible spores that can wreak havoc on your health. Some people are genetically predisposed to be more sensitive to mold. Even those without a known allergy can experience significant health problems from chronic exposure. 

Here are two compelling reasons why you should consider getting tested for mold exposure: 

  1. Mold Can Mimic a Multitude of Chronic Conditions:

Mold exposure can trigger a cascade of negative health effects that mimic symptoms of other chronic illnesses. This can lead to misdiagnosis and a revolving door of specialists without ever truly addressing the root cause. 

Here are some of the common symptoms associated with mold exposure and toxicity: 

  • Respiratory problems: Mold exposure can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and even chronic sinusitis. 
  • Neurological symptoms: Headaches, brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and even depression can all be signs of toxicity. 
  • Digestive issues: Mold can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to bloating, diarrhea, constipation, weight gain, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). 
  • Joint pain and fatigue: Muscle aches, joint stiffness, and chronic fatigue are commonly reported symptoms. 
  • Skin problems: Eczema, rashes, and other skin conditions can flare up due to mold sensitivity. 
  • Hormonal imbalances: Toxicity can disrupt your endocrine system, leading to problems with weight regulation, mood swings, and menstrual irregularities. 

If you’ve been struggling with any of these symptoms for an extended period and conventional medicine hasn’t provided relief, getting tested for mold exposure could be a game-changer. 

  1. Early Detection Can Prevent Long-Term Damage:

Mold can have a significant impact on your immune system. This can make you more susceptible to other infections and chronic illnesses. Early detection and intervention are crucial to minimize the long-term health consequences of mold exposure. 

By getting tested and addressing the exposure promptly, you can: 

  • Reduce the severity of your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. 
  • Prevent the development of more serious health problems down the line. 
  • Address any underlying immune system weaknesses  

Functional Medicine Offers a Comprehensive Approach to Mold Toxicity: 

Traditional medicine often falls short when dealing with complex issues like mold toxicity. Functional medicine, however, takes a more holistic approach, focusing on identifying the root cause of your health problems and addressing them through personalized treatment plans. 

Here’s how Nava Health can help you address mold toxicity through functional medicine: 

  • Testing: We offer a mycotoxin analysis to determine if you have been exposed to mold and the extent of your toxicity. 
  • Detoxification Support: We will work with you to develop a personalized detoxification plan to help your body eliminate mold toxins and support your body’s natural detoxification pathways. This may involve dietary modifications, specific supplements, ozone therapy, and other interventions. 
  • Nutritional Counseling: A personalized nutritional plan with a focus on gut health and anti-inflammatory foods can significantly improve your body’s ability to heal from mold exposure. 
  • Immune System Support: We will assess your immune system function and create a plan to strengthen your body’s defenses against mold and other environmental toxins. This may involve dietary adjustments and targeted IV micronutrient therapy. 
  • Addressing Underlying Conditions: Mold exposure can exacerbate existing health problems. We will address any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms and overall susceptibility to mold toxicity. 

By combining these functional medicine approaches, we can help you achieve optimal health and overcome the challenges associated with mold exposure. 

Taking Action for Your Health 

If you suspect you might be suffering from mold toxicity, don’t hesitate to reach out to Nava Health.

We understand the frustration and despair that chronic health issues can cause. We’re committed to helping you find the root cause of your problems and develop a personalized treatment plan to get you back on the road to wellness. 

Nour - Nava Health
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Nour Amri is a Licensed Integrative Nutritionist, a Certified Nutrition Specialist, and a Certified Ketogenic Nutrition Specialist. She earned her Master’s degree from the Maryland University of Integrative Health. She also received her certification for mind-body medicine facilitation from Georgetown University School of Medicine. In her approach, Nour applies the principles of Integrative and Functional Nutrition, which emphasize healthy eating personalized to the client’s genetics, environment, lifestyle, and health concerns.