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Wellness

Understanding Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is a multi-system, multi-symptom condition caused by a biotoxin trigger—most commonly mold or other microbial toxins in water-damaged buildings. Some individuals (based on specific genetic factors) cannot properly clear these toxins, resulting in an ongoing inflammatory response. Below, we dive into triggers, the 13 symptom clusters, and recommended tests, including the helpful Visual Contrast Sensitivity (VCS) screening tool.

What Triggers CIRS?

  1. Water-Damaged Buildings (WDB):
    Mold, bacteria, and endotoxins commonly proliferate in damp indoor environments. Certain people, due to specific HLA gene variants, struggle to clear these toxins.

  2. Algal Toxins:
    Harmful algae blooms can produce biotoxins that cause a similar inflammatory response in susceptible individuals.

  3. Chronic Infections (e.g., Lyme Disease):
    Some practitioners include tick-borne infections like Lyme under the CIRS umbrella because of overlapping or persistent inflammatory processes.

  4. Other Biotoxins:
    Rarely, exposure to toxins from bites (e.g., spiders), ingestion of contaminated fish (ciguatera), or other less common sources can contribute to an ongoing inflammatory response.

13 Symptom Clusters of CIRS

Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker identified 13 clusters of symptoms frequently exhibited by those with CIRS. Clinically, if an individual has multiple symptoms spread across at least 8 of these 13 clusters, CIRS becomes a prime suspect.

  • Fatigue
    • Persistent exhaustion, often not relieved by rest

  • Weakness / Aches / Cramps / Unusual Pain
    • Muscle weakness, spasms, or ‘ice-pick’ pain
    • Body aches that migrate or do not respond well to standard treatments
  • Headache / Light Sensitivity / Red Eyes
    • Migraines or frequent headaches
    • Photophobia (sensitivity to bright lights)
    • Irritated or bloodshot eyes
  • Blurred Vision / Tearing / Floaters in Vision
    • Visual disturvances, likely difficulty focusing
    • Increased tearing or watery eyes
    • Seeing “shadows” or “floaters”
  • Sinus Congestion / Chronic Cough / Shortness of Breath
    • Chronic sinusitis or nasal congestion
    • Dry or phlegmy cough
    • Asthma-like symptoms or difficulty breathing.
  • Joint Pain / Morning Stiffness
    • Aching joints, especially upon waking
    • Stiffness that improves slightly throughout the day
  • Memory Problems / Difficulty Finding Words / Confusion / Disorientation
    • Short-term memory loss
    • Forgetting words or losing train of thought mid-sentence
    • Feeling “foggy” or disoriented
  • Focus and Concentration Issues (“Brain Fog”)
    • Difficulty multitasking or sustaining attention
    • Losing traci of time or tasks
  • Mood Swings / Irritability / Depression / Anxiety
    • Emotional lability (sudden mood changes)
    • Increased anxiety, panic attacks or depression
    • Feeling uncharacteristically tense or upset
  • Abdominal Pain / Diarrhea / Bloating
    • Gastrointestinal distress reminiscent of IBS
    • Food sensitivities or poor digestion
  • Tingling / Numbness / Other Unusual Nerve Sensations
    • Pins-and-needles in extremities
    • Burning, itching, or crawling skin sensations
  • Memory Problems / Difficulty Finding Words / Confusion / Disorientation
    • Short-term memory loss
    • Forgetting words or losing train of thought mid-sentence
    • Feeling “foggy” or disoriented
  • Excessive Thirst / Frequent Urination / Appetite Changes
    • Drinking a lot of fluids yet still feeling thirsty
    • Needing to urinate frequently (especially at night)
    • Sudden changes in hunger levels or weight
  • Frequent Static Shocks / Electric Sensations / Temperature Regulation Issues
    • Noticing more static shocks or small electric zaps
    • Difficulty regulating body temperature (feeling too hot or too cold)
    • Episodes of night sweats

Many patients describe these symptoms as migratory, fluctuating, or inconsistent, which often makes diagnosis challenging. Still, the presence of multiple symptoms across numerous clusters is a strong indicator for further evaluation.

How is CIRS Diagnosed?

1. Visual Contrast Sensitivity (VCS) Test

A widely used screening tool for CIRS, the VCS test measures your ability to discern subtle differences in contrast. In those with biotoxin-mediated inflammation, neurotoxic effects can impair visual contrast perception. While not diagnostic on its own, a failing VCS test suggests further workup is warranted.

2. Key Blood Tests

  • C4a (Complement Component 4a):
    Often elevated in CIRS due to persistent immune system activation.

  • MMP-9 (Matrix Metalloproteinase-9):
    An enzyme linked to tissue damage and inflammation; frequently high in patients with ongoing inflammatory responses.

  • TGF-β1 (Transforming Growth Factor Beta-1):
    A cytokine involved in inflammation and tissue repair; dysregulated levels can signal CIRS.

  • MSH (Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone):
    Low in CIRS, affecting immune function, pain perception, and more.

  • VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor):
    Can be decreased, contributing to fatigue and reduced tissue oxygenation.

  • Leptin:
    Elevated leptin may correlate with inflammatory weight gain and metabolic changes.

  • HLA-DR/DQ Genetic Testing:
    Certain haplotypes predispose individuals to have difficulty clearing toxins, pointing toward CIRS susceptibility.

3. Additional Diagnostic Tools

  • NeuroQuant MRI:
    Software that measures brain volume changes; can identify characteristic patterns of inflammation or atrophy in certain regions.

  • MARCoNS Testing (Nasal Swab):
    Looks for antibiotic-resistant staph in the nasal cavity, which can perpetuate inflammation.

  • Environmental Testing:
    If a water-damaged building is suspected, professional mold and mycotoxin testing in the home or workplace is crucial.

Takeaways & Next Steps

  1. Recognize the Symptom Clusters:
    If you notice that your chronic symptoms fall into multiple of these 13 clusters, it’s worth exploring CIRS further—especially if you’ve had exposure to water-damaged buildings or other biotoxins.

  2. Use VCS Screening:
    A fail or borderline result on a Visual Contrast Sensitivity test may signal an ongoing inflammatory process in need of further investigation.

  3. Get the Right Labs:
    Comprehensive blood tests (C4a, MMP-9, TGF-β1, MSH, HLA genetic typing, etc.) can help confirm a working diagnosis and guide treatment.

  4. Test Your Environment:
    You can’t fully recover if you’re continually exposed to mold or other sources of biotoxins. Ensure your living and working spaces are safe.

  5. Seek Experienced Help:
    CIRS diagnosis and treatment can be complex. Working with a practitioner experienced in biotoxin illness ensures you get personalized guidance through testing, remediation, and healing protocols.

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome can be life-altering, but proper identification and treatment often lead to significant recovery. By understanding the triggers, recognizing these 13 distinct symptom clusters, and undergoing thorough diagnostic testing (including the VCS test), individuals can take meaningful steps toward regaining their health and well-being.