Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

In our recent podcast interview, Dr. Jaban Moore, a personal survivor of mold-related health issues, explores the profound impact of mold exposure on health and the complexities of diagnosing it. Dr. Moore, who found managing his mold-related symptoms even more challenging than Lyme disease, shares his mold recovery journey from detection to recovery, offering valuable insights for anyone concerned about the effects of mold. After reading this blog, you’ll learn how he utilized a combination of symptom examinations, blood and urine testing, and organic acid assessments to accurately diagnose and address mold-related health issues. This comprehensive approach underscores the importance of recognizing the often-overlooked effects of mold and seeking appropriate testing and treatment.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Mold Exposure

The signs and symptoms of mold exposure can vary greatly from person to person. Common indicators include:

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Is mold affecting your health? This infographic reveals the telltale signs and symptoms of mold exposure.

Allergy-like symptoms

  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Runny nose
  • Itchy eyes
  • Nasal congestion
  • Sore throat
  • Skin rash (e.g., eczema)

Symptoms with prolonged exposure

  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Respiratory issues (e.g., wheezing, shortness of breath)
  • Sinus infections

Cognitive and emotional symptoms

  • Memory loss
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Mood swings
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

Dr. Moore emphasizes the crucial importance of recognizing these symptoms, especially if you’re in damp or water-damaged environments. He also highlights the importance of comprehensive assessment and testing, as symptoms can range from neurological issues to physical ailments.

Impact of Mold Exposure on Children’s Health

Children are particularly vulnerable to mold exposure. Their developing bodies and immune systems make them more susceptible to its harmful effects, which can manifest as:

  • Physical ailments like headaches, fatigue
  • Mental health issues like anxiety, depression

During our conversation, Dr. Moore shared a poignant story about a child whose depression and OCD were traced back to mold exposure at school. This illustrates how mold can silently affect children’s overall health and well-being.

Testing Methods for Mold and Mycotoxins

Identifying mold exposure isn’t always straightforward. Various methods exist, each with its own pros and cons:

Symptom Monitoring

This involves assessing visible signs of mold exposure, such as those listed above, and considering your environment. However, symptoms can be easily misinterpreted or attributed to other causes, making this method less reliable on its own.

Blood and Urine Tests

These tests can detect the presence of mycotoxins, which are toxic substances produced by certain types of mold, in your body. Blood tests may reveal antibodies to specific mold species, while urine tests can measure the levels of mycotoxins being excreted.

Organic Acid Testing (OAT)

This test, conducted on urine samples, detects specific organic acids that are metabolic byproducts of mold. Elevated levels of certain organic acids can suggest the presence of mold colonization in your body.

Dr. Moore stresses that these tests aren’t infallible, and results may vary based on individual health conditions and the specific types of mold involved. Understanding these methods is crucial for anyone grappling with mold-related health issues.

Importance of Experienced Interpretation

Interpreting mold and mycotoxin test results is complex and requires an experienced practitioner. Each testing method has strengths and limitations, and an expert can accurately navigate these intricacies.

Dr. Moore points out that diagnoses should consider a patient’s overall health and stress levels, emphasizing the importance of personalized care in mold treatment.

The Mold Recovery Journey: Understanding Symptoms and Treatment

Understanding the impacts of mold on our health, especially in children, is paramount. Dr. Jaban Moore’s insights, gleaned from his own mold recovery journey, illuminate the often-overlooked effects of mold, which can manifest in various ways, from physical ailments to cognitive and emotional challenges. Recognizing these diverse symptoms and seeking comprehensive assessment and testing are crucial steps toward managing and overcoming mold-related health issues. By raising awareness and fostering understanding, we can create healthier environments for ourselves and our loved ones, ultimately leading to vibrant, mold-free lives.

References

Berndtson, K. (2013). Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome. Retrieved from https://nvlv.nl/downloads/Inflammation_Berndtson_essay_2_CIRS.pdf

Bush, R. K., Portnoy, J. M., Saxon, A., Terr, A. I., & Wood, R. A. (2006). The medical effects of mold exposure. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 117(2), 326–333. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2005.12.001

Hurraß, J., et al., Medical diagnostics for indoor mold exposure. Int. J. Hyg. Environ. Health (2016), http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijheh.2016.11.012

Five Journeys (2024). Treatment for mold exposure. Retrieved at https://fivejourneys.com/mold-exposure-treatment/

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is comprehensive testing for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, helping clinicians accurately diagnose and treat these complex infections. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood, Urine, or Ticks

COST

may have a $200 copay

INSURANCE

Covered by most insurance.

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Galleri® is a multi-cancer early detection test, a blood test that screens for many of the deadliest cancers before they become symptomatic,1,2,3 including those with no recommended screening tests today. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home or in lab.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$999

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This DNA test analyzes a person’s genetic markers to provide insights into their health and wellness price. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Swab

COST

$299

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is a key tool for assessing the impact of long-term exposure to environmental chemicals. By quantitatively measuring 14 select metabolites, this test helps determine an individual’s toxic burden, offering essential data to guide targeted nutritional and detoxification interventions for improved health outcomes. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$129

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

The Hormone and Urinary Metabolites Assessment Profile (HuMapTM) provides a comprehensive overview of steroid hormones, their metabolites, and the efficiency of the enzymes that metabolize these hormones. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$199

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a dried urine test for comprehensive hormones to help providers solve complex patient cases. DUTCH is a group of validated tests that provide a complete evaluation of sex and adrenal hormones, including metabolites. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$300

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a comprehensive stool test that relies on quantitative polymerase chain
reaction (qPCR) technology to detect parasites, bacteria, H. pylori, fungi, and more by targeting the specific DNA of the organisms tested. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$399

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a comprehensive test that uses blood and urine to evaluate over 125 biomarkers. It provides recommendations for vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and digestive support. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood and Urine

COST

$179 – $439

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

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Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Genova’s SIBO Profiles are non-invasive breath tests which capture exhaled hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4) gases following patient ingestion of a lactulose solution to evaluate bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Breath

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

COST

$85-$225 depending on insurance coverage. 

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At Home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$699

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. Repeat test prices $249

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the genetic profile for multiple health indicators. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood Spot

COST

$319

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This company can test for lyme, babesia, bartonella and additional tick-borne illnesses. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

around $1600 (depends on panel selected)

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. May be reimbursed with PPO plans.
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$310

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates a wide range of environmental toxins that may be leading to harmful health effects.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$199

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins.
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Blood work for blood count, urinalysis and vitamin levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

NOTES

You often have to fast for these tests-please check your providers notes.

COST

Depending on the test, deductible or copay may apply.

INSURANCE

Depends on insurance coverage, deductible or copay may apply.
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Glyphosate (“Round Up”) is a pesticide that is widely used and this test indicates the body’s levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$99 ($69 if performed with mycotoxins or environmental toxins).

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins or GPL Tox.
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates many measures including micronutrients, antioxidants, minerals, detox, overview of gut function, omegas and toxic exposure. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$150 – $329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

INSTRUCTIONS

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the gut function and indicates microbiome balance, overgrowth, infection, inflammation, parasites and digestive efficacy. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$179-$439 depending on insurance coverage.

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

No probiotics for one week.

VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the full menstrual cycle, female hormones, and adrenal profile.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

COST

$160-$329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

NOTES

Must be off hormones in order to do the testing.
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is specifically for a tick-borne illness called “Bartonella”.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

COST

$260

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of potentially harmful heavy metals stored in the body.  Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

Testing: $79 x2 paid to Doctor’s Data
DMSA: $38 paid to Johnson’s Compounding Pharmacy

INSURANCE

Not covered by Insurance
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test measures saliva cortisol testing throughout the course of one day and informs us where there might be an adrenal imbalance.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Saliva

COST

$80

INSURANCE

No insurance coverage

Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures
Mold Recovery Journey: Unraveling the Symptoms and Testing Procedures

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is designed to look at food sensitivities (IgG immune responses). It is available in both a 99 or 184 panel. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$129-238

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted