The young athlete suddenly struck with pounding headaches and severe fatigue, only to find out there’s mold in her bedroom ceiling. The honors college student who was suddenly overwhelmed by headaches, fatigue, and unexplained muscle twitches after moving into her dorm room. The factory worker who was suddenly struck with dizziness, fatigue, and asthma after being relocated to the basement of the building. The wife and two of her children suddenly battling various symptoms after doing some remodeling in their home.
These are all too familiar scenarios that so often emerge because of mold-related illnesses. One in four people has a genetic makeup that makes it especially difficult to process mold, which, over time, can result in serious health complications. That’s why some can live in the same home, or work in the same building, or go to the same school, without much consequence, while others react in ways that seriously diminish their health.
Though I used the word “suddenly” in the examples above, mold toxicity builds over time more often than not. But it’s usually trauma or a stressful event that can trigger a “sudden” cascade of symptoms.
So, how do you know if you’re battling a level of mold toxicity?
Recently on Susie Larson Live, Dr. Jill Carnahan joined me to unpack this mysterious yet prevalent issue. Dr. Carnahan is considered one of the leading experts on mold toxicity and treatment. She writes:
By far, the most common health issue caused by mold is allergy. Mold-related allergic reactions include:
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Red, itchy, and watery eyes
• Runny nose
• RashIf you’re someone who already has chronic or seasonal allergies or suffers from a respiratory condition such as asthma or COPD, your allergic reaction to mold may be much more significant. These worsened allergic symptoms can cause:
• Persistent coughing
• Frequent chest cold
• Headaches
• Difficulty breathing
• Sinus inflammation
• Fatigue and lethargyIn cases of long-term toxic mold exposure, this may lead to more serious symptoms such as:
• Poor memory and confusion
• Sensitivity to light
• Tingling and numbness in your hands and feet
• Appetite swings and weight gain
• Increased thirst
• Hair loss
• Metallic taste in your mouth
• Abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea
• Muscle cramps
• Joint pain
• Anxiety
• Lightheadedness
• Difficulty concentrating
I heard a story of a man who was initially diagnosed with Alzheimer’s (and was too young for such a diagnosis). But he was quickly losing his cognitive function. It turned out he was severely ill with mold toxicity. Once they identified and treated the mold, he regained his cognitive function and got his life back. Imagine!
Though treatment is somewhat complicated (because every situation is unique), it’s important to note that it is treatable.
The first step is to locate the source of the mold (and don’t try to remediate on your own; seek out the help of an expert). You may need to make some significant changes, but then again, what’s your life worth? It’s priceless! Trust God to lead you, one step at a time. Next, find a doctor who understands mold-related illnesses and follow his instructions (I’ve included several links at the bottom of this point to point you in the right direction). You’ll need to be disciplined with your diet, with supplements, and with the medicine they prescribe.
As someone who has dealt relentlessly with this issue, I know how overwhelming it can be. It’s not for the faint of heart. And there’s not a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone. But some protocols have proven effective, and it’s wise to seek out those who’ve traveled this road before.
Finally, never underestimate the power of prayer and the potency of God’s mighty promises. He cares about your health and the quality of your life. Believe it, friend.
Here’s a passage I pray regularly. Perhaps it’ll encourage you as well today:
Let all that I am praise the Lord;
with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name.
Let all that I am praise the Lord;
may I never forget the good things he does for me.
He forgives all my sins
and heals all my diseases.
He redeems me from death
and crowns me with love and tender mercies.
He fills my life with good things.
My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!
You can do this. Get a vision for a healthier, healed you.
Here are a few great resources for more information:
www.jillcarnahan.com
www.survivingmold.com
https://iseai.org