CIRS is not a disease but a collection of the body’s inflammatory responses to biotoxins that often come from molds. Sources of biotoxins are not limited to molds, but also include bacteria and virus. What these toxins do is send the body immune system into “overdrive,” or to spin out of control to protect the body.
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome is a complex condition with symptoms similar to other toxin-borne conditions like Lyme Disease or Ehrlichiosis. To learn more about CIRS, contact us today to schedule your consultation with one of our providers at Enhanced Wellness Living.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms?
CIRS, as the name implies, exhibits chronic inflammatory responses. These symptoms range from mild to severe and can occur in different parts of the body.
General Symptoms
The most common symptoms of CIRS are:
- Severe fatigue
- Flu-like symptoms
- Insomnia
- Hypersensitivity to environment
- Sudden weight gain
- Fibromyalgia
- Vertigo
Musculoskeletal Symptoms
A CIRS patient can experience weakness, stiffness and pain (from brief sharp to burning pain) in various muscles, joints, and bones. These include:
- Cramps
- Spasms
- Morning stiffness
- Stabbing-needle pain in the muscle
- Joint Pain
- Tics
Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat Symptoms
Patients also may experience functional difficulties in their sensory organs. Some signs include:
- Hazy vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Watery eyes
- Ringing in the ear
- Hearing loss
- Dizziness
- Nasal congestion
- Sensitivity to smells
- Nosebleeds
- Loss of voice
- Sore throat
- Vocal cord polyps
- Tired, raspy voice
Digestive and Excretory Symptoms
A person with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome conditions may experience difficulties in digestion and excretion of food. These symptoms include:
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- Weight loss or gain
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
How to Get Tested for CIRS
Most tests are done to identify the toxins’ presence in the blood. These biochemical presences are called biomarkers. Doctors perform laboratory tests to isolate these biomarkers to determine the medications or procedures to prescribe.
The most common test for CIRS is VCS, or Visual Contrast Sensitivity. Originally used in military tests, VCS is done to assess the visual sensitivity that often shows up in patients with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome.
If you exhibit symptoms of CIRS or concerned that you may be diagnosed, our providers at Enhance Wellness Living looking forward to determining an appropriate treatment to help you achieve a greater quality of life. We look forward to hearing from you!
