Back to The Overlap Hub

CIRS / Mold Toxicity Starter Checklist – 2026 Edition

A scannable, printable starting point for anyone suspecting mold-related illness

≈ 10–15 min read

Step 1: Quick Symptom Self-Check

Symptom How Common in CIRS? Red-Flag Level
Unrelenting fatigueVery highHigh
Brain fog / poor word recallVery highHigh
Chronic sinus issuesHighMedium–High
Air hunger / shortness of breathHighHigh
Joint/muscle pain without injuryHighMedium–High
Temperature dysregulationHighMedium
Light/sound sensitivityMedium–HighMedium
Static shocks / skin sensitivityMediumMedium
Frequent urination / thirstMediumMedium
Mood swings / anxietyMedium–HighMedium

If you have ≥5 “High” or “Medium–High” symptoms → strong possibility of CIRS. Proceed to labs.

Step 2: Shoemaker’s Key Labs

Lab What it measures Optimal Range CIRS Typical
MSHMelanocyte Stimulating Hormone35–81 pg/mL<35 (often <17)
ADH / OsmolalityAntidiuretic Hormone regulation1–4.7 pg/mLLow ADH + high osmolality
TGF-β1Inflammatory cytokine<2380 pg/mL>5000 (often 10,000+)
MMP-9Tissue remodeling enzyme85–332 ng/mL>332 (often 400+)
C4aComplement activation0–2830 ng/mL>4000–20,000
VEGFVascular growth factor31–86 pg/mL<31

Order through LabCorp / Quest or Ulta Lab Tests. Full Shoemaker panel recommended.

Step 3: First 30 Days Action List

  1. Leave the exposure – Get out of the suspected building if possible (even temporarily). Use HEPA air purifiers + open windows if safe.
  2. Test your environment – Order ERMI or HERTSMI-2 from EnviroBiomics (≈$300). Dust test = most reliable for CIRS.
  3. Get baseline labs – Run Shoemaker panel + MARCoNS swab if sinus symptoms.
  4. Start gentle binders – Cholestyramine or Welchol only under doctor guidance (very common first step).
  5. Support detox pathways – Hydration, Epsom salt baths, milk thistle, NAC (low dose), infrared sauna if tolerated.
  6. Find a practitioner – Use Surviving Mold physician finder or ask in trusted Facebook groups.

Common Pitfalls & What NOT to Do