If you’ve been struggling with fatigue, brain fog, chronic pain, or strange sensitivities that doctors can’t explain, you’re not alone.
Many people who’ve lived or worked in water-damaged buildings experience a mysterious condition known as Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).
This guide explains what CIRS is, what causes it, how it’s diagnosed, and most importantly--how to find the right practitioner to help you heal.
What is CIRS?
CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) is a multi-system, multi-symptom illness triggered by exposure to biotoxins, often from mold or other microbial growth in water-damaged buildings (WDBs).
When genetically susceptible individuals are exposed to these toxins, their immune systems fail to recognize and eliminate them properly. This leads to a chronic inflammatory cascade affecting the brain, immune, hormonal, and nervous systems.
Common Causes
- Water-damaged buildings (indoor mold, bacteria, mycotoxins)
- Lyme disease and coinfections (Babesia, Bartonella)
• Cyanobacteria (from lakes or humidifiers)
• Endotoxins and actinomycetes exposure
• Post-infectious or immune dysregulation
Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker first identified CIRS as a distinct biotoxin-related illness. His Shoemaker Protocol remains the foundation of many treatment approaches today.
Common CIRS Symptoms
Because CIRS affects multiple body systems, symptoms vary widely between individuals. Many patients are misdiagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, or anxiety before discovering the real cause.
Neurological and Cognitive
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
• Short-term memory problems
• Word-finding issues
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Tingling or numbness in face or limbs
Physical and Immune
• Chronic fatigue or post-exertional crashes
• Joint and muscle pain
• Sinus pressure or congestion
• Persistent cough or shortness of breath
• Static shocks or electric sensations on skin
Emotional and Hormonal
• Anxiety, depression, or mood swings
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia)
• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Hormonal imbalances (thyroid, cortisol, sex hormones)
Environmental Sensitivities
• Worsening symptoms in specific buildings
• Reactivity to fragrances, chemicals, or EMFs
• Light, sound, or temperature sensitivity
If this list feels familiar, it’s not “in your head.”
CIRS is real, measurable, and treatable with the right approach.
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How CIRS is Diagnosed
Accurate diagnosis is essential because CIRS overlaps with many chronic illnesses.
A CIRS-literate practitioner will use a structured approach — often the Shoemaker diagnostic framework.
1. Clinical History
A detailed environmental and medical history helps identify possible mold or biotoxin exposure, often tied to symptoms that worsen indoors.
2. Visual Contrast Sensitivity (VCS) Test
A simple online or in-office test that screens for neurological effects of biotoxin exposure.
3. Lab Work and Biomarkers
• HLA-DR genotype testing – genetic susceptibility
• Inflammatory markers (C4a, TGF-beta-1, MMP-9, VEGF)
• Hormonal panels (ACTH, cortisol, ADH/osmolality)
• MARCoNS testing – nasal swab for resistant staph
• C3a, C4a, MSH, and VIP – immune and neuroendocrine markers
4. Environmental Testing
ERMI or HERTSMI-2 dust tests can help confirm mold contamination levels in your home or workplace.
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CIRS Treatment Basics
There’s no single “cure,” but most treatment plans aim to remove exposure, bind toxins, and rebalance immune and hormonal systems.
The Shoemaker Protocol (Core Phases)
1. Remove Exposure – Identify and leave or remediate the moldy environment.
2. Bind Toxins – Use binders like cholestyramine or Welchol under medical supervision.
3. Treat MARCoNS & Inflammation – Calm inflammatory pathways and clear nasal infections.
4. Rebalance Hormones & Neuroimmune Markers – Support ADH/osmolality, MSH, VIP, etc.
5. Retest & Monitor Progress – Confirm improvement through labs and symptom tracking.
Always consult a qualified CIRS-literate provider before starting treatment.
Detox or binder therapy without guidance can worsen symptoms if inflammation isn’t first stabilized.
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How to Find a CIRS Doctor
Finding the right doctor can be overwhelming — especially when you’re already sick and exhausted.
That’s why we built FindMoldDoctors.com: a free, filterable directory to connect patients with CIRS-literate practitioners who understand this condition.
Tips for Finding a CIRS-Literate Provider
• Look for Shoemaker Certified or CIRS-trained credentials
• Ask about telemedicine options
• Check insurance acceptance or superbill availability
• Review specialties and conditions treated
• Confirm licensing and board certifications
You can filter by:
✅ State
✅ Telemedicine availability
✅ Insurance accepted
✅ Shoemaker-certified status
👉 Search for a CIRS specialist near you →
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Living with CIRS: Hope and Recovery
CIRS can feel isolating — but recovery is possible.
Thousands have regained energy, mental clarity, and a normal life after identifying and treating their exposure.
Healing takes time, but with the right doctor and a structured plan, progress is real.
If you’re unsure where to begin, start with knowledge and community:
• Learn from trusted resources like SurvivingMold.com and ParadigmChange.me
• Connect with other patients online
• Find the right practitioner at FindMoldDoctors.com
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Take the Next Step
Your recovery starts with clarity.
Use our directory to find CIRS practitioners who understand this condition — filter by location, telemedicine, or Shoemaker certification.
➡️ Find a CIRS Doctor Near You
