Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)

If you’ve been dealing with chronic, unexplained symptoms you may be facing an overlooked condition known as Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). At Functional Medicine Collaborative we can help identify the root causes of persistent inflammation, including biotoxin-related illness like CIRS.

What Is CIRS?

CIRS is a multisystem, multi-symptom illness caused by chronic exposure to biotoxins. A biotoxin is a toxic substance produced by a living organism—such as bacteria, mold, algae, or fungi—that can trigger harmful effects in the human body. Unlike synthetic toxins (like pesticides or heavy metals), biotoxins are naturally occurring but can still cause serious health issues in susceptible individuals.

For some people biotoxins are not cleared effectively by the immune system which leads to an out-of-control immune response. The result? Chronic inflammation that doesn’t go away—even long after the original exposure.

Common Symptoms of CIRS

Because CIRS affects multiple systems in the body, symptoms can vary widely and often mimic other chronic illnesses like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and autoimmune conditions. You may experience:

  • Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest

  • Brain fog, poor memory, and difficulty concentrating

  • Mood swings, anxiety, or depression

  • Sinus issues, chronic cough, or shortness of breath

  • Digestive issues, including bloating or IBS-like symptoms

  • Tingling, numbness, or unexplained muscle pain

  • Hormonal imbalances, low libido, or disrupted sleep

  • Increased sensitivity to light, noise, or chemicals

  • Symptoms that get worse in certain buildings or environments

You’re Not “Just Sensitive” — Your Body Is Telling You Something

Many patients with CIRS are told their symptoms are "all in their head" or simply due to stress or aging. In reality, your body may be stuck in a chronic inflammatory loop—and it needs the right tools and support to break free.

At our practice, we believe in listening deeply, testing strategically, and healing naturally. If you suspect mold illness or have a history of Lyme disease and feel like nothing has helped, it’s time to explore whether CIRS is the missing link.

Our Approach

At our clinic, we use a functional and systems-based approach to identify and treat CIRS at its root—rather than just managing symptoms.

Our CIRS program includes:

  1. Exposure Assessment
    We help you identify and eliminate hidden sources of biotoxin exposure—especially mold. This often includes home testing recommendations and environmental guidance.

  2. Detox Support and Toxin Binding
    Using tools like binders (e.g., cholestyramine or activated charcoal), glutathione, and targeted supplements, we help remove toxins and support your detox pathways.

  3. Advanced Testing
    We offer laboratory testing for key CIRS markers such as:

    • Inflammatory and hormonal markers

    • HLA genetic susceptibility

    • VCS (Visual Contrast Sensitivity) testing

    • Mycotoxins

    • Lyme Disease and other tick-borne illnesses.

  4. Repair and Rebuild
    Once exposure is removed and detox is supported, we work on rebalancing your immune system, healing your gut, restoring hormone function, and rebuilding energy through personalized protocols.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

We’re here to help you uncover the root causes of your chronic symptoms and create a clear, actionable path to healing. Book a consultation to find out whether CIRS or biotoxin illness may be affecting your health.