Understanding Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is a complex and multi-symptom medical condition that arises when an individual is exposed to harmful toxins. These toxins become connected with the immune system, prompting an inflammatory response, and causing hormonal fluctuations.

This immune reaction results in an overproduction of cytokines, leading to a situation where the immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, resulting in inflammation and a range of related symptoms.

These toxins are harmful substances produced by living organisms that individuals encounter in their day-to-day lives, however, most people are not bothered by them. While most people’s bodies possess an efficient detoxification process that can eliminate these substances with minimal long-term effects, there exists a subset of individuals who are vulnerable to this toxin-triggered immune dysfunction. The ongoing inflammation can impact virtually any organ system within the body, and if left untreated, it can lead to a debilitating condition.

It is unlikely Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) will go away on its own. In fact, it is not possible for CIRS to be completely cured. However, treatments by specialists, such as those at the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, can help treat the condition.

There are various types of treatments and protocols in place to manage CIRS. Identifying and addressing the root cause can be one of the most effective methods of addressing CIRS.

This often involves removing the individual from exposure to the relevant biotoxins to promote better treatment outcomes. A host of medications may be used to eliminate the toxins from the system and prevent inflammation. Various therapies may be implemented as well.

The Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine focuses on a holistic treatment of the whole person and identifying and treating the root cause of health problems such as CIRS to promote improved health outcomes.

Together, providers will work with patients to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to improve their quality of life living with CIRS.

When it comes to the identification and diagnosis of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), your provider will examine the symptoms which are divided into 13 different clusters. In instances where a patient displays at least eight of the relevant symptoms, they may receive a positive CIRS diagnosis.

These symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, body aches, disorientation, skin sensitivity and tingling, congested sinuses, and difficulty concentrating. Impaired memory, vertigo, excessive thirst, difficulty regulating body temperature, abdominal pain, and pain are among the other symptoms.

In addition to the identification of relevant symptoms, doctors may run a variety of tests for CIRS. Given the difficulties surrounding the misdiagnosis of CIRS, it is important for the process to be as comprehensive as possible.

Genetic testing can be used to determine an individual’s susceptibility to biotoxin-related illness, blood tests, MRIs, and visual contrast sensitivity tests may also be employed.

A wide range of lab testing at the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine is available to identify mold sickness.

Early detection and diagnosis of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) by a specialist at the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine is crucial for improved health outcomes. The consistent inflammation and immune system dysfunction that accompany CIRS can become debilitating over time.

Individuals will have to contend with persistent symptoms that interfere with their daily quality of life. Without treatment, immune system issues can also lead to a heightened vulnerability to other conditions.

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) treatment is available at the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 7510 North Forest Drive North Charleston, SC 29420. We serve patients from Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Summerville, North Charleston SC, Ladson SC, Hanahan SC, James Island SC, John’s Island SC, Daniel Island SC, and all of South Carolina, Nationally, and Internationally. Patients routinely fly in to be evaluated by COEM, as we serve patients internationally. Find out if you have been exposed, extensive lab testing is available.