Expert Recap: CIRS vs. Mold Allergies Although CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) and a mold allergy are both triggered by mold, that is where the similarities end. In a mold allergy, when the trigger is removed, the immune system calms down, symptoms resolve. Antihistamines moderate symptoms. It is uncomfortable, but it follows … [Read more...]
Expert Recap: How to tell if you have CIRS A trained CIRS practitioner will take the following markers into consideration when making a CIRS diagnosis: TGF-β1 (Transforming Growth Factor Beta-1) MSH (Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone) C4a (Complement Component 4a) MMP9 (Matrix Metalloproteinase-9) VEGF (Vascular … [Read more...]
Expert Recap: How to test for CIRS The GENIE test (Genomic Expression: Inflammation Explained) is a blood test that looks at the way genes express themselves in people suffering from CIRS. This matters because CIRS doesn’t show up on a standard CBC or metabolic panel. But it does leave a fingerprint in your genetic expression and that’s exactly … [Read more...]
Is CIRS a Real Disease? Here's How to Know for Certain *Note: this blog was written by me, Mark Volmer. All spelling mistakes, misquotes, errors, and omissions are my own doing. It is not AI generated.* A few years ago, a patient I'll call Sandra came to see me after a decade of searching for answers. She was exhausted in a way that a stellar … [Read more...]
What Is CIRS? A Plain-Language Guide to Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome *Note: this blog was written by me, Mark Volmer. All spelling mistakes, misquotes, errors, and omissions are my own doing. It is not AI generated.* I want to start with something I hear almost every week in my clinic. My doctor says my labs are normal. But I feel … [Read more...]
Expert Recap: Is CIRS an Autoimmune Disease? No, CIRS is not an autoimmune disease. Unlike autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, CIRS is characterized by an inability to shut down the inflammatory response, even after removing the triggering toxin. Is CIRS an Autoimmune Disease? When Sarah was diagnosed … [Read more...]
Understanding CIRS Symptoms: Early Signs and What to Look For Lisa always prided herself on being active and energetic, the type of person who could juggle work, family, and hobbies without breaking a sweat. But gradually, things began to change. It started with unexplained fatigue that didn’t go away, even after a full night’s sleep. Then came … [Read more...]
How Do You Get Diagnosed with CIRS? What Most Doctors Miss *Note: this blog was written by me, Mark Volmer. All spelling mistakes, misquotes, errors, and omissions are my own doing. It is not AI generated.* I want to start with something that happens on a regular basis. Diane came into my office carrying a 3" binder of test results and a look … [Read more...]