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Update on Urine Mycotoxin Testing
Newer tests have become available that attempt to evaluate for mycotoxins associated with water-damaged buildings (WDB) rather than food sources. Are these tests useful?
Christine Daecher, DO
5 days ago3 min read
Is a Single Dose of Doxycycline Enough? A Closer Look at Lyme Prophylaxis
Current recommendations for prophylactic antibiotic use after a tick bite are largely dictated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.1 These guidelines recommend a single high dose of doxycycline—a one-time antibiotic dose—under a fairly narrow set of criteria. At first glance, the criteria seem reasonable. In practice, there are several problems with this model.
Christine Daecher, DO
Apr 294 min read
Why Your Washing Machine Might Be Making You Sick (Especially if You Have a History of CIRS)
When it comes to a water-damaged building, individuals who develop Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) may become ill not only from fungi, but also from bacteria and the byproducts these organisms release. While multiple surfaces within a washing machine can harbor microbial growth, the most significant area of concern is the rubber gasket at the door—commonly referred to as the “boot.”
Christine Daecher, DO
Apr 154 min read
Spray Foam Insulation and Water-Damaged Buildings: Persons with CIRS, Beware!
Learn about the pitfalls of spray foam insulation and how it can trap moisture and leaks.
Christine Daecher, DO
Feb 184 min read
Indoor Environmental Professional - Know How and When to Use One
Learn more about testing your home for hidden water damage.
Christine Daecher, DO
Nov 19, 20253 min read
CIRS Illness: Understanding What a Water-Damaged Building Is
When we think of water-damaged buildings, we often picture structures with roof leaks or major plumbing failures. However, these visible...
Christine Daecher, DO
Mar 12, 20255 min read
Understanding Acute and Chronic Ciguatera
Ciguatera poisoning, caused by the ingestion of fish contaminated with ciguatoxins, can lead to chronic illness.
Christine Daecher, DO
Jan 29, 20253 min read
Testing for Urine Mycotoxins?
Is there any value in testing the body load of fungal/mold toxins by testing urinary mycotoxins? Occasionally, I get a new patient who has had urinary mycotoxin testing showing elevated mycotoxins (mold toxins). When I see this type of testing, I know that I will now have to educate the patient about the proper testing for biotoxin illness. Further, I must carefully explain why urine mycotoxin testing is not worth doing. Often, this results in me being in a situation where I
Christine Daecher, DO
Nov 20, 20243 min read
If we don’t look, we won’t find Biotoxin Illness
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome is a chronic inflammatory reaction of the innate immune system.
Christine Daecher, DO
Nov 6, 20244 min read
Lone Star Tick Illnesses: STARI & Anti-gal Syndrome
Review of Lone Star Tick transmitted diseases, Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness or STARI, and Alphal-gal Syndrome.
Christine Daecher, DO
Sep 25, 20244 min read
Mold Testing Your Home
Read on to learn the best methods for mold testing your home!
Christine Daecher, DO
Aug 21, 20244 min read
What is Leptin? What is Leptin Resistance?
Everyone is talking about hormones related to metabolism. Let's review Leptin focusing on its function and dysfunction. I will cover...
Christine Daecher, DO
Jul 31, 20243 min read
The Problem with Hypermobile Joints
Hypermobile joints may carry an increased risk of immune-related problems if specific HLA is present.
Christine Daecher, DO
Jul 10, 20243 min read
Why do I feel too tired to exercise?
Why am I so sore after I exercise? Why do I feel tired after exercise when my heart and lungs are fine?
Christine Daecher, DO
Jul 3, 20243 min read
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