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Tag Archive for: mold

Posts

mold toxicity, mycotoxin illness

Mycotoxin Illness: Could the Air You Breathe Be Making You Sick?

April 4, 2024/in Conditions/by Lisa Lilienfield, MD

Years ago I had a teen patient who presented with nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and cognitive decline. He was so sick, he was missing weeks of school at a time and could not keep up. After a thorough workup, I tested him for mycotoxins, naturally occurring, poisonous substances that are released by certain types of fungi (aka mold), through a urine test. He had 3 different types of mycotoxins, but the level of one certain type of black mold toxin, called trichothecene, was through the roof. He had been living in the basement of his family home. The home was tested, and mold was found and remediated. Fortunately, I tested several other family members who were all negative.

However, finding and ridding the environment of the mold was not enough to heal my patient. Toxins had settled into his tissues and because his liver genetically was not clearing them help was needed. First, he moved out of the house, left high school temporarily, and moved in with another family member in order to remove himself from the toxic environment completely. I then put him on supplements to support the liver detox process, and binding agents to reduce the toxic load through the gut. I also gave him supplements aimed at lowering inflammation in the brain and nervous system. It took several months, but over time he felt better and was able to move back home to finish school. He is now a healthy, happy young man who just left home for college.

I’m happy to report things ended well for my patient. Unfortunately, this type of case is becoming more common, but why?

About a half-century or so ago we lived and worked in homes and buildings that were more open to outdoor air. Over the years our homes and buildings have become more airtight and climate-controlled so that we are now breathing recirculated indoor air as opposed to outdoor air. In addition, instead of being built with plaster our homes and buildings are constructed with porous drywall which when combined with moisture creates a feeding frenzy for mold.

What are molds?

Molds are a group of fungi that produce airborne spores. In nature, molds are decomposers that recycle nature’s organic wastes. In medicine, they are the producers of antibiotics such as Penicillin or drugs, like ergotamines, used for migraines. Some molds and fungi, like cheese and mushrooms, are delicacies. However, when certain molds infiltrate our environment, they can wreak havoc on our health.

black mold

When there is water intrusion in your home or work environment, such as occurs in a flood or even with a minor water leak, within two days mold spores that have either lain dormant or have come from the outside start to feed off the drywall that is now wet. The mold spores produce mold toxins called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins can thrive under the right conditions (high temperatures and moisture are the major determining factors). These wet areas also become breeding grounds for bacteria that produce toxins called endotoxins. The mold and bacteria infiltrate wall coverings, such as wallpaper and paint, and begin to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and this contaminated air circulates through the home or building.

Exposure to high concentrations of mold spores (such as black mold toxin or aspergillosis) over an extended period of time which results in the accumulation of these toxins in the body, is known as “biotoxicity” or “neurotoxicity.”

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Symptoms of mold toxicity

The symptoms of toxic inhalation are many. The most common symptoms are respiratory in nature, i.e. sinus congestion, sore throat, cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. This can lead to an autoimmune condition called hypersensitivity pneumonitis. However, with continued exposure, dysregulation of the immune, nervous, and endocrine systems can occur leading to a range of symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, generalized pain, depression, cognitive issues, rashes, weight gain, and digestive inflammation from ingestion of spores.

We now understand that there is genetic variability among those who have been exposed to mycotoxins. Some people are genetically capable of clearing low levels of these toxins through the liver detox process and never suffer consequences. Others do not have the ability to clear them and get severely ill, which was the case for my teen patient. This is why the “sick building syndrome” is so controversial – not everyone has the same reaction depending on the degree of exposure. However, given a high enough dose, it can be devastating. In fact, mycotoxins, like trichothecenes from black mold, have been used in biological warfare.

Mycotoxins in food

Mycotoxins can also be found in food as well as airborne. There are over 300 identified types of mycotoxins, but only a small number of these are responsible for contaminating the foods we eat. Contamination can occur at any number of points in the production process – from harvesting and storage to packaging and transportation. Staple crops like wheat, corn, barley, nuts, even coffee beans, are highly susceptible to contamination. The toxin itself cannot be seen by the naked eye so once the toxin is established in a food item it is virtually impossible to eliminate. Aside from being invisible, they are also heat resistant, so they are not affected when food is cooked.

Ochratoxin and aflatoxin, two common types of mycotoxins found in contaminated food, have been shown to cause kidney damage, cancer, and liver failure.

How we can help | Treating mold toxicity

Determining whether you have been exposed to mold toxins is not an easy task. If you suspect mycotoxin illness, we can help you with the appropriate testing and restore you to good health. The treatment process may include one or more of the options below.

  1. Get tested: Specialized labs that test for both airborne mold toxins and toxins found in food may be ordered for you.
  2. Talk to an air quality specialist: We recommend speaking to an indoor air quality specialist. They can come to your home to determine whether mold is present and what steps are necessary to remediate.
  3. Examine your diet: If exposure appears to be rooted in a food source, such as aflatoxin or ochratoxin, an amylose-free diet (a diet low in sugar, grains, and tubers) may be helpful. Certain nutritional supplements, including Glutathione, N-acetyl Cysteine, Chlorella, Omega-3 Fatty Acids,  Vitamin D, Magnesium and D-Ribose, and binding agents like charcoal, clay or bile acid sequestrants like cholestyramine, may be recommended by your physician to help remove toxins from the body.
  4. Try a complementary therapy: Acupuncture, osteopathic manipulation, and Chinese and American herbal remedies may be helpful in providing relief from symptoms and from any side effects of the detoxification process.

-Lisa Lilienfield, MD

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2

References

Learn About Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis

Mycotoxins, World Health Organization; Fact Sheet

Immune and Nervous Systems Interaction in Endocrine Disruptors Toxicity: The Case of Atrazine

Impact of Pesticides on Immune-Endocrine Disorders and Its Relationship to Cancer Development.

Impact of mycotoxins on the intestine: are mucus and microbiota new targets?

CBRNE – T-2 Mycotoxins

Facts about Stachybotrys chartarum

Occurrence, Toxicity, and Analysis of Major Mycotoxins

Ochratoxins in Wines: A Review of Their Occurrence in the Last Decade, Toxicity, and Exposure Risk in Humans

 

This article was originally published in December 2017. It was reviewed and updated in April, 2024.

Toxicity disorders can affect mood and overall health.

Living with Chronic Pain and Illness? You May Be Suffering from a Toxicity Disorder

March 29, 2024/in Toxicity/by Gary Kaplan, DO

Anyone can be at risk of being exposed to and affected by harmful toxins. Exposure can occur in your own home, at work, or while traveling. The good news is that for most people the liver is able to break down these toxins so they can pass through the intestines and be excreted from the body. However, approximately 20 percent of the general population lacks the enzymes needed to break down toxins for elimination, leaving this group particularly vulnerable. Instead of being excreted, harmful toxins can be reabsorbed through the lining of the intestines back into the body. The body then sequesters them wherever it can, damaging the muscle tissue, nerves, and nervous tissues in those “holding areas.”

You can be exposed to toxins in the following ways:

  • By ingesting contaminated food, beverages, and water.
  • By inhaling aerosolized particles in the air.
  • Through direct contact with mucus from eyes, nose, mouth, etc…
  • Through direct contact with the skin

If you think you have been exposed to toxins that are affecting your health, call and speak with a nurse today: 703-532-4892, ext. 2.

CALL NOW

Not all toxins are the same

Biotoxins

Biotoxins are toxic substances from biological sources, like plants, bacteria, molds, and animals that alter the body’s normal biological systems that manage digestion, respiration, circulation, joint flexibility, etc. When this happens the resulting condition is called biotoxicity.

Neurotoxins

Neurotoxins affect the nervous system and disrupt the normal functioning of neurons, key cells that transmit and process signals in the brain and other parts of the nervous system. This is called neurotoxicity.

Neurotoxins can be of natural or manmade origin. For example, neurotoxins can be found in molds, heavy metals (lead, mercury), and insect bites, as well as in pesticides, food preservatives (aspartame), and substances used in chemotherapy, radiation treatments, and drug therapy, among other things.

Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are a type of biotoxin and the byproducts of fungi (molds) that can have toxic effects on humans and animals. Aspergillus, Penicillium, Stachybotrys, and Fusarium are some of the more common fungi that produce the following toxic offspring: Aflatoxins, Gliotoxins, Ochratoxins, and Trichothecenes.

Mycotoxins are primarily found in:

  1. Structures: In water-damaged homes and buildings
  2. Food: Common contaminants of human food products, like wine, coffee beans, nuts, cereal grains (wheat, corn, barley, etc…) and animal feed. They can also enter the food chain through food products, such as milk, meat, and eggs, obtained from animals that are fed mycotoxin-contaminated feed.

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Health effects of mold toxicity

Mycotoxins and leaky gut

The job of the small intestine is to allow nutrients to pass through its lining so they can be absorbed into the bloodstream and circulated to all the major organs. But it also works as a filter to prevent foreign or toxic substances from entering the bloodstream. When there is damage to the lining and foreign substances are able to penetrate this is called leaky gut or intestinal permeability. Since we now know that 70-80% of our immune system is located in our gut it is not surprising that the effects of leaky gut can be serious.

Researchers investigated the presence of mycotoxins in the gastrointestinal tract and concluded that Candida Albicans, one of the pathogenic fungi residing in the intestines, harmless in small amounts, starts producing gliotoxins if its number outgrows the other beneficial bacterial species in the gut, causing a myriad of neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms. Exposure to Candida Albicans and other mycotoxins results in:

  • Disrupting intestinal integrity causing dysbiosis (imbalance in gut bacteria) or leaky gut
  • Disrupting the microbiome
  • Suppressing the local immune response in the intestines

Neurocognitive symptoms

In the brain, the glial cells (microglia and astrocytes) are part of an interactive network of cells that work to protect the nerves and brain from damage and ensure their proper development. Research shows that exposure to mycotoxins can suppress and impair their proper functioning, putting an individual’s cognitive development and/or function at risk.

A research study that measured IQ scores in 277 six-year-old children, who were exposed to indoor mold for more than 2 years, showed IQ deficits of approximately 10 points using a scale of intelligence, exemplifying the dangers of exposure on cognitive development in early childhood.

Other classic neurologic disorders that result from mycotoxin exposure include pain syndromes and depression, movement disorders, delirium, dementia, and balance and coordination disorders.

Mold toxicity is one of the major toxicity conditions we see at the Kaplan Center. Over the years we have gained a better understanding of the pathophysiology, or disease process, of environmental toxicity and have developed a successful treatment protocol. We have been delighted to see an extraordinary resolution of symptoms in about 50 percent of patients, and notable improvement in another 40 percent. Obviously, the protocol is not a cure-all, but it has helped a number of patients feel significantly better.

Toxcity disorders can cause headaches and many other pain symptoms.What Are Common Symptoms of Toxicity Disorders?

The following is a list of symptoms that may indicate the presence of biotoxins or neurotoxins in your body:

– Joint Pain – Muscle Pain – Chronic Headaches
– Fatigue – Digestive Problems – Decreased Ability to Focus
– Sleep Problems – Decreased Libido – Weight gain / Obesity
– Depression – Anxiety – Mood Swings
– Poor Memory – Irritability – Wheezing

Are the Symptoms of Biotoxicity & Neurotoxicity Similar to Those of Other Disease Conditions?

Yes. Because the symptoms of biotoxicity and neurotoxicity are similar to those of other diseases, toxicity disorders are often overlooked as the underlying cause of illness.

Can I Be Tested for Biotoxicity or Neurotoxicity?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, and, especially if your condition has not responded to conventional medical treatment, the Kaplan Center recommends the following steps:

  1. (And most important!) Take the time to talk with your doctor about your history of exposure to environmental toxins.
  2. Take an On-line Visual Contrast Sensitivity Test (VCS). This non-invasive test is a sensitive indicator of your exposure to a variety of toxins. There are a number of online resources that offer this test for a small fee.
  3. Undergo genetic testing (HLA-testing) to determine if your body has the enzymes necessary to breakdown biotoxins.
  1. Undergo advanced testing. There are a variety of tests that can detect the presence of toxins (including mycotoxins, heavy metals, infectious sources, food additives, pesticides, and other toxic chemicals). Talk to your physician about which test(s) may be most appropriate for you, based on your history of exposure
  2. Test for leaky gut. When the protective filtering system within the intestines is compromised, it is known as Intestinal Permeability – or leaky gut. Toxins and other substances that would normally have been kept within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and eliminated are now able to get into the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body.

Treating Biotoxicity and Neurotoxicity

There are a variety of treatments available to patients suffering from biotoxicity or neurotoxicity disorders. If the underlying cause of your pain or illness is biotoxicity or neurotoxicity, your treatment plan must include a detoxification regime, or your overall recovery is likely to be incomplete and slower than it needs to be. Your treatment plan should be individually tailored after consideration of your overall medical history, your current symptoms, your genetic makeup, your history of exposure to toxins, and your lifestyle. In essence, a detoxification regime is designed to “draw out” toxins from whichever tissue they have been stored and “bind” the toxins at the molecular level so they can finally be eliminated from the body; this is typically done with binders and anti-fungal medications.  We also prescribe dietary changes, such as Detox Food Plans, and nutritional supplements including Glutathione, Activated Charcoal, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Chlorella, Vitamin D, Magnesium, and Probiotics. Before purchasing any over-the-counter nutritional supplements or herbal remedies, it is important to note that:

  1. The quality and efficacy of nutritional supplements can vary widely depending upon the manufacturer and the dosage consumed.
  2. Supplements can interact with other prescription medications, enhancing or undermining the effectiveness of your other medications or even creating new and unexpected problems.

The Kaplan Center medical team also offers integrative therapies, such as nutritional consultation, acupuncture, osteopathic manipulation, Chinese and American herbal remedies, and recommendations for saunas and exercises. These alternative modalities can provide patients with significant relief from their symptoms and from any side effects of the detoxification process.

What Can I Do Now to Protect Myself and My Loved Ones from Biotoxicity and Neurotoxicity?

The MOST important thing you can do to improve your health and wellbeing is to limit your environmental exposure to toxins by:

  1. Making sure there is no hidden mold in your home (watch this video featuring David Young MPH, an Indoor Health Specialist, for tips on how to keep a healthy environment);
  2. Avoiding high processed foods that contribute to leaky gut – a disruption in the lining of the small intestine that, when present, allows toxins and other unwanted substances to circulate throughout the body;
  3. Eating fresh, organic, and non-GMO whenever possible;
  4. Using green/clean products that do not contain pesticides and other toxic ingredients.

Where Can I Get Additional Information?

For more information about Biotoxicity and Neurotoxicity, we recommend the following sources:

Websites:

  • A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home
  • Chemicals, Pesticides and Toxics Topics, EPA

Books:

  • Your Guide to Mold Toxins by Gary Rosen, Ph.D. and James Shaller, MD
  • Lose the Weight You Hate by Ritchie Shoemaker, MD
  • Desperation Medicine by Ritchie Shoemaker, MD

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2


References

Hope, J. (2013). A review of the mechanism of injury and treatment approaches for illness resulting from exposure to water-damaged buildings, mold, and mycotoxins. The Scientific World Journal, 2013.

Sobral, M. M. C., Faria, M. A., Cunha, S. C., & Ferreira, I. M. (2018). Toxicological interactions between mycotoxins from ubiquitous fungi: Impact on hepatic and intestinal human epithelial cells. Chemosphere, 202, 538-548.

Empting, L. D. (2009). Neurologic and neuropsychiatric syndrome features of mold and mycotoxin exposure. Toxicology and Industrial Health, 25(9-10), 577-581.

Jones, D.C., Miller, G.W. (2008). The effects of environmental neurotoxicants on the dopaminergic system: A possible role in drug addiction. Biochemical Pharmacology, Volume 76, Issue 5.

Kwon-Chung, K. J., & Sugui, J. A. (2009). What do we know about the role of gliotoxin in the pathobiology of Aspergillus fumigatus? Medical Mycology, 47(Supplement_1), S97-S103

Niide, O., Suzuki, Y., Yoshimaru, T., Inoue, T., Takayama, T., & Ra, C. (2006). Fungal metabolite gliotoxin blocks mast cell activation by a calcium-and superoxide-dependent mechanism: implications for immunosuppressive activities. Clinical Immunology, 118(1), 108-116.

Liew, W. P. P., & Mohd-Redzwan, S. (2018). Mycotoxin: its impact on gut health and microbiota. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, 8, 60.

Wiertsema SP, van Bergenhenegouwen J, Garssen J, Knippels LMJ. The Interplay between the Gut Microbiome and the Immune System in the Context of Infectious Diseases throughout Life and the Role of Nutrition in Optimizing Treatment Strategies. Nutrients. 2021 Mar 9;13(3):886. doi: 10.3390/nu13030886. PMID: 33803407; PMCID: PMC8001875.

Reemst K, Noctor SC, Lucassen PJ, Hol EM. The Indispensable Roles of Microglia and Astrocytes during Brain Development. Front Hum Neurosci. 2016;10:566. Published 2016 Nov 8. doi:10.3389/fnhum.2016.00566

 

This article was originally published in December, 2018 and reviewed in March, 2024.

Human_Optimization_Podcast

LISTEN NOW: Why You Are Still Sick

December 4, 2023/in Long Covid, Wellness/by Kaplan Center

Dr. Kaplan was a recent guest on the Human Optimization Podcast with host Lisa Pitel Killah, BCHHP, FDN-P, hTMAP.

In this podcast, Dr. Kaplan and Lisa discuss

  • How inflammation influences chronic pain and depression/anxiety symptoms
  • What are “microglia”, how they influence inflammation, and what sets them off
  • How stress and adverse events in childhood can impact your immune system
  • What it means to have a brain on fire
  • The importance of finding the root cause(s) of your symptoms to get to the bottom of why you are still sick
  • Supplements and medications that are effective in treating long COVID and other chronic illnesses
  • The importance of a healthy gut and good sleep hygiene, and so much more!

Listen now: Episode #77: Why You Are Still Sick

 

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2

Dealing with Anxiety

8 Commonly Overlooked Causes Of Anxiety and Depression

May 17, 2023/in Conditions, Mental Health, Wellness/by Gary Kaplan, DO

With the right treatment, people seeking relief from depression or anxiety can live happy, productive lives. But if you’re one of the many Americans seeking relief from depression or anxiety, you’re no doubt aware of just how elusive successful treatment can be. It is estimated that as many as 30% of depressed patients do not respond to treatment, raising an important question: could it be that we’re thinking about — and therefore treating — these conditions in the wrong way?

A growing body of research suggests that depression and anxiety might not be mental disorders in and of themselves, but rather symptoms of a physical inflammation stemming from increased microglial activity in the brain. Microglia are the immune cells of the Central Nervous System (CNS) and are responsible for producing inflammatory chemicals in response to infection or other CNS damage.

This gives the medical community and those living with these debilitating conditions new hope. In thinking about depression and anxiety as symptoms, we’re afforded new insights into potential root causes, as well as alternative methods of treatment.

Here are eight often-overlooked causes of depression and anxiety that you should consider:

1. Celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

About 1% of Americans have celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder caused by the body’s negative reaction to gluten, the protein found in wheat, barley and rye. And gluten intolerance — also called non-celiac gluten sensitivity — is estimated to impact six times as many Americans.

While we don’t yet understand the mechanism of gluten intolerance in the body, the impact can be very similar to that seen with celiac disease. While intestinal complaints are most common, research is showing that some people with these conditions may, in fact, present with anxiety and depression as the only symptoms.

You can test for celiac disease with a simple blood test. The only way to test for gluten intolerance is to go gluten-free for six weeks and watch for any improvement. (Before making any major dietary changes, make sure to consult your provider or a registered dietitian.)

2. Sleep apnea.

There are two types of sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is the more common form and occurs when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses, thereby blocking the airway during sleep. Central sleep apnea, although not as common, is a result of the brain forgetting to tell the body to breathe. Studies confirm the relationship between sleep apnea and depression.

If you get plenty of sleep but never feel quite rested, or you find yourself often nodding off, a first step you can take is to answer the 8 questions on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. If your score is equal to or higher than 10, the results should be discussed with your provider.

3. Lyme disease.

Lyme and other tick-borne diseases are becoming increasingly prevalent. While the most common symptom is joint pain, these diseases can also be associated with depression and anxiety disorders (affective disorders).

This link between Lyme disease and neuropsychiatric disease was first documented in 1994 in the American Journal of Psychiatry and has been widely documented since, but the potential connection is frequently overlooked when diagnosing those with psychiatric illness. If you are suffering from chronic pain and a mental disorder, this diagnosis should be considered.

Questions? Give Us a Call!

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4. Unhealthy diet.

A study published in PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America) confirmed that “…frequent fried food consumption is strongly associated with a higher risk of anxiety and depression.”

On the other hand, eating a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids (fish oils, walnuts, and flaxseed) and antioxidants (colorful fruits, berries, and greens including spinach, broccoli, and collards) can help provide the brain with the nutrients it needs to repair free radical damage and optimize function.

5. Thyroid disease.

Both an under-functioning thyroid (hypothyroidism) and an over-functioning thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can present as depression or anxiety — not to mention other symptoms like weight changes and exhaustion. If you suffer from depression or anxiety, you may wish to have your thyroid hormone levels checked to rule out any disorder.

6. Medications.

It’s also possible that regular medications may be causing or worsening your depression or anxiety. Beta-blockers used to treat high blood pressure are known to cause depression, and acne-fighting Accutane, birth control pills, and even statins all list depression as a possible side effect.

If you take medication regularly, I recommend talking with your provider about the chances that your medication is bringing you down or making you anxious.

7. Toxic mold exposure.

Exposure to certain indoor molds can result in a wide range of symptoms, including depression, ADHD, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, chronic sinus infections, and various pulmonary and neurologic issues. If you fear that you’ve been exposed to indoor molds, it’s critical that you speak with a physician who is familiar with mold toxicity disorder.

8. Coffee.

Several studies have demonstrated a link between coffee consumption and heightened anxiety. While most people can tolerate one to two cups of coffee per day without issue, if you are prone to anxiety, you may want to rethink your morning pick-me-up. Try cutting out coffee altogether for at least two months and observe whether or not your mental state changes as a result.

This article first appeared in Dr. Kaplan’s column on MindBodyGreen.com in September 2015. It was reviewed and updated in May 2023.

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2

Additional Resources

Harding CF, Pytte CL, Page KG, Ryberg KJ, Normand E, Remigio GJ, DeStefano RA, Morris DB, Voronina J, Lopez A, Stalbow LA, Williams EP, Abreu N. Mold inhalation causes innate immune activation, neural, cognitive and emotional dysfunction. Brain Behav Immun. 2020 Jul;87:218-228. doi: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.11.006. Epub 2019 Nov 18. PMID: 31751617; PMCID: PMC7231651.

Temple JL, Bernard C, Lipshultz SE, Czachor JD, Westphal JA, Mestre MA. The Safety of Ingested Caffeine: A Comprehensive Review. Front Psychiatry. 2017 May 26;8:80. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00080. PMID: 28603504; PMCID: PMC5445139.

strengthen_your_immune_system

5 Ways to Strengthen a Weakened Immune System

June 29, 2021/in Inflammation, Treatments/by Kaplan Center

We have heard it a million times before. One of the keys to maintaining a robust immune system is lowering inflammation. An article published on MDLinx online mentions several ways we may unknowingly be weakening our immune system. Factors discussed in the article include:

  1. Eating foods that contain too much fructose
  2. High daily stress levels
  3. Lack of adequate sleep (…starting to sound familiar?)
  4. Sunburn
  5. Loneliness

None of the items above are particularly surprising – we know what’s good for our bodies (not fructose!) and our minds (definitely not stress) – so how does the immune system become compromised?

When inflammation goes awry

Inflammation is one of our body’s defense mechanisms; it’s a normal, healthy, and necessary biological function. When the body identifies a threat or a foreign invader, it releases inflammatory chemicals to initiate the repair process. But under repeated “assaults” it can remain in a state of heightened inflammation and this is when the trouble begins.

When the body is constantly producing inflammatory chemicals, the function of the Central Nervous System which controls most bodily functions is undermined and can compromise other systems like the immune system. When the immune system is weakened, the cells that are meant to help fight infection become damaged, and the body’s ability to fight disease is diminished. One can literally get caught in a debilitating cycle of cellular degeneration and dysregulation.

The items mentioned above, as well as any of the following, can contribute to a cycle of sustained inflammation when left untreated:

  • Undiagnosed bacterial or viral infections
  • Exposure to mold or other toxins
  • Physical trauma/concussions
  • Surgery
  • Undiagnosed food intolerance
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Anxiety disorders/ PTSD
  • Narcotic medications

Questions? Give Us a Call!

703-532-4892 x2

Reversing the cycle

If you notice that you’re often sick, fatigued, or have frequent digestive issues, it may be a red flag that your immune system is weakened. With a better understanding of how inflammation may be contributing to your condition, the next step is to initiate practices and, if necessary, seek treatments that will calm the inflammatory cycle. Here’s what helps:

  1. TRY AN ELIMINATION DIET. For six weeks, avoid all foods with wheat, soy, milk, and milk products (foods that often trigger allergies or sensitivities that promote inflammation). Eat only fresh fruits, vegetables, brown rice, fish, chicken, and eggs—these foods, in general, are the least likely to cause inflammation. After six weeks, add back one category of food—such as dairy—per week. Note whether these foods have a negative effect on your energy, mood, or level of pain. If so, eliminate that food from your diet entirely.
  2. MEDITATE. A 2020 review looking at the effects of mindfulness meditation on the immune system concluded that “mindfulness meditation appears to be associated with reductions in pro-inflammatory processes, increases in cell-mediated defense parameters, and increases in enzyme activity that guards against cell aging.”
  3. SLEEP. Make adjustments to your sleep environment and aim for at least 7 hours of sleep per night. This is at minimum what your body needs to be able to carry out important repair functions like reducing inflammation, tissue repair, and hormone production.
  4. CUT BACK ON OTC MEDICATIONS. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil, Motrin, and Aleve can cause gastrointestinal issues like intestinal ulcers and bleeding when taken chronically to manage pain. NSAIDs can also increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in patients with or without heart disease or risk factors for heart disease. Taking pain relievers routinely to manage pain may actually cause your pain to worsen; the body begins to forget how to fight it on its own. Use OTC medications sparingly and try alternative therapies such as yoga and acupuncture as well as anti-inflammatory supplements* like turmeric.
  5. WHEN YOU NEED TO SEE A PHYSICIAN, CONSIDER ONE WHO PRACTICES FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE (FM). In looking for clues that may be contributing to symptoms of illness or disease a Functional Medicine physician will systematically assess and optimize six major areas of health, including the immune system. In doing so, FM doctors have a more complete picture of one’s overall health and underlying conditions or deficiencies that may be causing inflammation. FM doctors utilize several modes of treatment, including stress reduction & management, mind-body tools, improving nutrition, healing your gut, supporting detoxification, exercise, acupuncture, herbs/botanicals, IV Therapy, supplements, manual medicine, and when needed, medication.

*Ask your physician about any potential side effects or interactions before taking any new medicinal herbs and supplements.

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2

overlooked causes of migraines

5 Overlooked Causes Of Migraine Headaches

June 8, 2021/in Conditions, Migraine/by Gary Kaplan, DO

With migraine headaches, it’s important to look beyond the symptom to target the disease.

Lindsay was 23 years old, fresh out of college, and working at her dream job in Washington, D.C., as a congressional aid. Working in Congress, 10-hour days are the norm and for Lindsey, typically the first to arrive in the morning and last to leave in the evening – that was a short day.

She was in charge not only of the Senator’s schedule but also required to be at his side taking notes at all his meetings, as well as keeping him informed as to who he was meeting with and why.

Young, energetic, with an excellent memory and a gift for attention to detail, Lindsay was a rapidly rising star in the highly competitive world of Capitol Hill. When we met, Lindsay was clearly intelligent, completely charming, and terrified that everything she had achieved could be completely undone by progressively crippling migraines.

She had suffered from migraines since she was 16 and had seen several physicians, including neurologists. Yet despite trials of numerous medications, the headaches had become more frequent and debilitating within the last year.

According to the American Migraine Foundation, 1 billion Americans of all ages suffer from migraines. Women are disproportionately affected, impacting approximately 1 in 5 American women versus 1 in 16 men.

For most migraine sufferers, the attacks occur one to two times a month or less, but about 4 million people agonize with a migraine 15 days or more a month. Migraine headaches are regarded as one of the top 20 of the world’s most debilitating medical illnesses.

Most physicians treat migraines as a disease, when in fact, they may be a symptom. By this, I mean that if you go to your doctor complaining of headaches that are diagnosed as migraines, the appointment typically ends with a prescription for medications to either prevent the occurrence of the headache or treat the acute headache, with little if any testing.

It’s rare for any consideration to be given to why you get the headaches. But, if you can find the underlying cause, you have a much better chance of finding the cure.

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Here are five frequently overlooked causes of migraine headaches:

1. Celiac disease and gluten intolerance

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease to gluten, a protein found in the grains wheat, barley, and rye. About 1% of the population suffers from Celiac disease and unfortunately, it’s estimated that over 80% of the people with Celiac disease are undiagnosed.

Gluten intolerance (GI) affects about 6% of the American population. GI, while not associated with the damage to the lining of the small intestines as seen in Celiac disease, can make you almost as sick as Celiac disease.

Because eating grains causes Celiac disease and GI, we tend to think that this is an intestinal problem and expect to see people complaining of abdominal symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea and abdominal pain. In fact, both these diseases can present with minimal or no gastrointestinal symptoms and a large number of other symptoms including migraines, peripheral nerve damage, seizures, anxiety disorders, depression, and even schizophrenia. This was documented in an excellent review published in 2012.

You can screen for Celiac disease with a simple blood test, but we do not have any reliable testing for GI as of yet. Treatment for both conditions is the elimination of all gluten-containing foods from your diet.

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2. Magnesium deficiency

This may play a role in the occurrence of migraines in up to 50% of the people who suffer from this condition. (An excellent summary of this research was published in 2012.)

Magnesium is essential for a wide range of functions in the body and unfortunately, it’s easy to become deficient in magnesium and difficult to measure with a blood test.

Low nutritional intake, excess consumption of coffee, sodas, and alcohol, chronic stress, chronic illness, and intestinal problems (such as Celiac disease creating problems with absorption of magnesium) can all lead to deficiency.

The foods highest in magnesium, such as halibut, mackerel, boiled spinach, bran breakfast cereal, and nuts such as almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds, are not foods that typically make up much of our diets.

I encourage my patients suffering from migraines to make the necessary dietary changes and to supplement with between 250 and 500mg of magnesium a day.

One of the side effects of taking magnesium is diarrhea. If you develop diarrhea while taking magnesium, decrease the dose or try switching the type of magnesium you are taking.

We also treat many of our migraine patients with IV magnesium.

3. TMJ disorder

The temporal mandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint where your jaw connects with your skull. The joints are located in front of your ears on either side of your face. If your teeth are misaligned or you grind your teeth, a condition called bruxism, you can develop dysfunction and pain at the TMJ.

Symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include popping of the joint, pain at the joint, difficulty opening your mouth, and headaches. Proper diagnosis and treatment require that you see a dentist familiar with this condition. The headaches caused by TMJ can be misdiagnosed as migraines and TMJ can be a trigger for migraines.

4. Thyroid disease

Both low and high thyroid levels can cause headaches. Thyroid disease, usually associated with fatigue, dry skin, and hair loss when thyroid levels are low, and rapid heart rate and anxiety when thyroid levels are high, may present with migraine as the only significant symptom. This so-called subclinical presentation of thyroid disease can also be seen in adults and children.

Diagnosis can be made with a simple blood test.

5. Mold toxicity

This is highly controversial, but in my experience, mold toxicity is a significant cause of many diseases, including migraines. Molds can produce allergic reactions when inhaled, but the bigger concern is the toxins called mycotoxins that are chemical toxins present within or on the surface of the mold.

Mold toxins can affect almost every organ in the body, but the brain is almost always affected, resulting in neurotoxicity. People with mold toxicity have complaints that vary from mild cognitive impairment to symptoms that look like multiple sclerosis.

Headaches are a common complaint of people suffering from mold toxicity. Mold toxicity should be considered in anyone who has migraines and a history of exposure to water-damaged buildings where mold grows. Unfortunately, very few doctors know about this condition or how to evaluate a patient for the problem. For more information on mold toxicity, see the Biotoxicity and Neurotoxicity page on this website or visit Dr. Shoemaker’s website SurvivingMold.com.

As it turns out, Lindsay’s migraines were a result of being gluten intolerant and having low magnesium levels. Once she eliminated all gluten from her diet and improved her magnesium levels with magnesium IVs, her migraines dramatically improved.

We are here for you, and we want to help.

Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2

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