Mold Toxicity and Recovery in Austin, Texas

What is Mold Toxicity?

Mold toxicity (mycotoxicosis) occurs when exposure to toxic mold (often from water-damaged buildings) leads to the accumulation of mycotoxins in the body. These toxins can trigger chronic inflammation, immune dysfunction, and neurological symptoms. Some people are more susceptible, especially those with genetic predispositions (like HLA-DR genes), weakened immune systems, or chronic health conditions.

Mold is a common fungus that thrives in high-humidity environments such as basements and bathrooms, as well as in moisture-prone areas like roofs, pipes, wood and tile floors, and ceiling tiles. Water leaks in these places create ideal conditions for mold growth.

Exposure to mold can occur both at home and in the workplace, especially in buildings with poor ventilation, plumbing, or drainage, which are more susceptible to mold infestations.

Mold and other fungi can also grow in soil, particularly in regions with high humidity, frequent rainfall, or abundant decaying vegetation. Additionally, mold can be found in water sources, including tap water. Exposure may occur through water vapor released during activities like showering, handwashing, brushing teeth, or flushing toilets.

While mold in soil and water is generally not harmful to most people, individuals with weakened immune systems or sensitivities may experience adverse symptoms. Are you looking to get tested for mold illness in Austin? Get in touch with Xenia, your go to functional & integrative medicine provider to get you started!

Common Symptoms of Mold Toxicity

Mold toxicity affects multiple systems in the body, leading to a wide range of symptoms.

1. Neurological & Cognitive Symptoms

   1. Brain fog (difficulty thinking clearly, memory problems)

   2. Headaches or migraines

   3. Dizziness or vertigo

   4. Mood swings, anxiety, or depression

   5. Tingling or numbness in extremities

      
      

2. Respiratory Symptoms

   1. Chronic sinus congestion or sinus infections

   2. Wheezing or shortness of breath

   3. Chronic cough or sore throat

      
      

3. Immune & Inflammatory Symptoms

   1. Chronic fatigue and weakness

   2. Joint pain or muscle aches

   3. Frequent infections or autoimmune flare-ups

   4. Skin rashes, hives, or sensitivity to chemicals

      
      

4. Digestive Symptoms

   1. Bloating, nausea, or diarrhea

   2. Food sensitivities (especially to gluten, dairy, or processed foods)

   3. Leaky gut or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms

      
      

5. Hormonal & Metabolic Symptoms

   1. Unexplained weight gain or loss

   2. Thyroid dysfunction (cold hands and feet, hair loss, sluggish metabolism)

   3. Adrenal fatigue (trouble waking up, energy crashes, salt cravings)

      
      

6. Other Symptoms

   1. Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells

   2. Night sweats or temperature regulation issues

   3. Insomnia or restless sleep

How Do You Know If You Have Mold Toxicity?

• Environmental Check: Have you lived or worked in a water-damaged building?

• Symptoms Match-Up: Do you have multiple unexplained symptoms that no doctor could address or effectively treat?

• Lab Testing: Urine mycotoxin tests, organic acids tests can help confirm mold-related illness.

• Symptom Questionnaire developed by Dr. Jill Crista, renowned "mold doctor."

How can you get tested for mold?

Do you live in Austin or Texas? Through my website, you have access to functional medicine testing. These tests you can order directly through my store (MycoTOX Profile or RTL Tox Complete Plus). The test is shipped to your home where you will collect your own urine sample. The kit comes with a prepaid label and UPS/Fedex shipping bag. The test also includes a 30 minute virtual lab review with me, your functional medicine NP. Once I got your lab results and reviewed it, I will email you a booking link to book your lab review virtual appointment to a day and time that works best with your schedule.

If you are located in Austin or the state of Texas, and you have confirmed mold toxicity, as a trained and licensed functional medicine provider, I can get you onto a path of detox and recovery from mold toxicity.

If you are located in any other state, a functional medicine provider licensed in your state can get you started on medical treatment to help you detox and recover from mold toxicity.

How is mold toxicity treated?

A quick review of how mold toxicity is approached and treated:

Treating mold toxicity involves a combination of eliminating exposure, detoxifying the body, and supporting the immune system. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

Remove Mold Exposure

• Identify & Eliminate the Source: Get a professional mold inspection and remediation if necessary.

• Improve Air Quality: Use HEPA air purifiers and dehumidifiers to reduce airborne spores.

• Clean Your Environment: Wash clothes, bedding, and surfaces with mold-fighting solutions (e.g., vinegar, hydrogen peroxide).

Detox the Body

• Binders: Activated charcoal, bentonite clay, and chlorella help absorb and eliminate toxins.

• Sweating & Detox Therapies: Infrared sauna, Epsom salt baths, and exercise can help the body eliminate toxins.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of filtered water to flush out mold toxins.

Support the Immune System

• Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Eat nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods (leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins). Avoid sugar and processed foods.

• Supplements: there are vitamins and supplements that cen help your body to detoxify mold toxins.

• Probiotics: Support gut health and help restore microbial balance.

Address Symptoms

• Brain Fog & Fatigue: Support mitochondrial health with CoQ10 and B vitamins.

• Respiratory Issues: Use saline nasal rinses and steam inhalation with essential oils.

• Inflammation & Joint Pain: Turmeric, Omega-3s, and magnesium can help.

Work with Xenia, a certified mold provider!

• Consider consulting with Xenia, your go to functional & integrative medicine provider for targeted testing (mycotoxin tests, organic acids test) and personalized treatment as detoxing from mold is complicated and if not done correctly, can make you very sick. Xenia got certified by the renowned mold doctor, Dr. Jill Crista.

If you have any more questions, please schedule your complimentary discovery call or drop me an email.

Xenia, Your Functional Med NP

in Austin, Texas