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Mold Exposure

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Mold Exposure Recovery

If you’re struggling with mold exposure, symptoms like fatigue, cognitive issues, respiratory problems, and chronic inflammation might be severely impacting your quality of life. We know this struggle is severe but we are ready to help you heal from mold exposure.  Firstly, you must get rid of the source of your mold exposure. After mold remediation, we use dietary changes, very direct supplementation, possible ozone therapy, and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) to help you recover.  Dr. Adam Fields’ office in Los Gatos is equipped to offer these services and guide you toward recovery.  Note that the ozone therapy is administered by Dr Josh Donaldson who is a naturopathic doctor. 

Where does mold exposure come from?

Aspergillus fumigatus
Aspergillus fumigatus

Mold exposure can result from living in damp environments, poor ventilation, or prolonged contact with materials hosting harmful mold types such as Aspergillus fumigatus or black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum). Mold can easily grow in your car, an unvented shower, plumbing leaks, in between panes of glass in a window, under a sink, and, of course, from leaks in your roof.  Mold can even be a problem if the leaks had been fixed years ago.

Symptoms of Mold Toxicity

  • Allergic Reaction from Mold Exposure
    Mold spores can trigger immune responses in sensitive people. When inhaled, these allergens provoke reactions like stuffy nose and ears, wheezing, and skin irritation
  • Mycotoxin Toxicity
    Certain molds, such as Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) and Aspergillus fumigatus, produce mycotoxins that can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. These toxins can disrupt cellular function by inducing oxidative stress, causing mitochondrial dysfunction, and leading to DNA damage and inflammation. 
  • Chronic Inflammation and Mold Exposure
    Mycotoxins and mold exposure can trigger the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This causes inflammation throughout the body. HBOT works wonders on inflammation but increases circulation in areas that usually are not getting proper flushing. This systemic inflammation may result in symptoms like fatigue, joint and muscle pain and cognitive dysfunction like brain fog and memory issues.
  • Mold and Your Brain
    Mold toxins cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to neuroinflammation. This manifests as attention deficits, headaches, and mood disturbances such as anxiety or depression.  I think you are beginning to realize by now that mold is a problem that should be taken very seriously.

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  • Respiratory Illnesses and Mold Exposure
    Prolonged exposure to mold spores often leads to respiratory distress like chronic sinus infections which can be helped with ozone nasal insufflations in our office. If it gets into the lungs, it can exacerbate asthma and cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis, an immune-mediated lung condition.  Even ear conditions like eustachian tube dysfunction can be triggered by prolonged mold exposure. 

How Does Mold Exposure Affect Me?

Mold growth

Mold exposure can impact your health in various ways, depending on your sensitivity and the duration of exposure:

  • Respiratory Issues – Coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and worsened asthma.
  • Allergic Reactions – Itchy eyes, runny nose, skin rashes, and throat irritation.
  • Chronic Fatigue – Persistent tiredness, brain fog, and low energy.
  • Skin Problems – Rashes, hives, and eczema flare-ups.
  • Neurological Symptoms – Headaches, memory issues, dizziness, and mood changes.
  • Digestive Issues – Nausea, bloating, and gut discomfort.
  • Weakened Immunity – Higher susceptibility to infections and slower recovery.

How Can I Test for Mold Toxicity? 

We can usually conclude you have a mold issue with a thorough history and symptomatic picture. However, there are diagnostics for mold like seeing mycotoxins in the urine, elevated inflammatory cytokines, and elevated antibodies against mold species (IgE and IgG tests).

How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Help?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a non-invasive treatment where you breathe pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This process significantly increases the oxygen concentration in the bloodstream and tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.

HBOT offers unique benefits for mold exposure, including:

HBOT Effective in Reducing Fungal Proliferation
A 2018 study found HBOT especially effective for infections resistant to traditional antifungal treatments. 

Improved Cognitive Function and Reduced Inflammation with HBOT
A 2011 study investigated the effects of HBOT on patients with mold toxicity and associated cognitive deficits. It demonstrated significant improvements in attention span and reaction time after just 10 sessions. This suggests HBOT can help with neurocognitive symptoms associated with mold exposure​. 

HBOT has been shown to counteract neuroinflammation and improve memory and focus. Besides reducing the inflammation of nerves, HBOT reduces inflammation in joints which helps you feel better.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5826133/

Reduction in Mold Growth and Fungal Infections with HBOT
A 2018 study found that HBOT effectively reduced fungal proliferation, especially in infections caused by Aspergillus fumigatus. HBOT inhibits fungal growth by saturating tissues with oxygen, which antifungal drugs often fail to address due to low oxygen levels at infection sites. Elevated oxygen levels support white blood cell activity, boosting your body’s ability to fight mold-related infections.

Enhanced Healing and Immune Response with HBOT for Those Suffering from Mold Exposure
Research has shown that HBOT increases tissue oxygenation, enhancing the immune system’s ability to fight infections and reduce inflammation. A study published in 2013 highlighted the potential of HBOT to reduce inflammation and improve neurological symptoms caused by mold-related illnesses​

Chronic Inflammation and Brain Health Helped with HBOT

Another study explored the role of HBOT in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in chronic mold toxicity cases. Patients reported relief from brain fog, fatigue, and headaches after completing their HBOT sessions​

For mold exposure, treatment typically involves:

  • Duration: Each session lasts 60–90 minutes.
  • Frequency: Five days per week and even 2 times per day can be recommended.
  • Total Number of Sessions: Most people benefit from 20–40 sessions.

Many people report feeling clearer-headed, more energized, and even less symptomatic after completing their sessions.

Complementary Treatments for Mold Exposure:  Dietary Considerations and Supplements

 Dietary Considerations and Supplements

  • Anti-inflammatory diet: Mold toxicity often triggers systemic inflammation, so adopting an anti-inflammatory diet is crucial. Focus on whole foods rich in antioxidants, such as leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fatty fish. Never even touch sugar, processed foods, and alcohol, as these exacerbate inflammation and can feed the mold.
  • Supplements: We will be giving you a personalized supplement protocol. However, here are some examples of supplements that can start the process:
  • Glutathione: Known as the body’s “master antioxidant,” glutathione helps neutralize mycotoxins and supports liver detoxification.  We do IV glutathione in the office as this is the preferred way to ingest it. This is excellent when done prior to your HBOT session.
  • Activated charcoal: Binds to toxins in the digestive tract, aiding in their removal from the body.  Taken first thing in the morning. 
  • Probiotics: Mold exposure can disrupt gut health, so replenishing beneficial bacteria is essential for restoring balance and supporting immunity.  We use Microbiome Labs spore-based probiotics as they are the best for viability and use some that are great at eliminating mold. https://microbiomelabs.com/register/?ref=drfields
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Reduce inflammation and support brain health.
  • Vitamin C and N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): Boost antioxidant defenses and support lung health.
  • Olive Leaf Extract: In high doses, great at killing mold without killing your gut flora.
  • And many others depending on your situation. 

What to Expect from Treatment for HBOT 

Patients undergoing these therapies often experience:

  • Improved energy levels and reduced fatigue.
  • Enhanced focus, memory, and cognitive clarity.
  • Relief from chronic pain and inflammation.
  • Better respiratory function and reduced allergy-like symptoms.

Your Next Steps Toward Recovery

In Dr. Adam Fields’ clinic in Los Gatos, California we are here to guide you through every step of your recovery journey. If you are far from the office, starting with a telehealth call can be a good idea. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your personalized treatment plan.