Could Your Home Be Making You Sick?
If you’ve been struggling with fatigue, brain fog, or unexplained health issues and traditional medical tests come back “normal,” you’re not alone. Many Arkansans suffer for months or even years without realizing that toxic mold in their homes could be the root cause of their symptoms.
At K9 Mold Inspections LLC, we help homeowners uncover hidden mold with our highly trained scent-detection dog. One of the most serious health conditions linked to mold exposure is Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, or CIRS — a condition that affects multiple systems in the body and is often triggered by exposure to water-damaged buildings.
What Is CIRS?
CIRS is a biotoxin-induced illness. It occurs when your immune system fails to properly eliminate biotoxins — such as mycotoxins from mold — resulting in chronic inflammation throughout the body.
Not everyone develops CIRS from mold exposure. Researchers estimate that approximately 25% of the population has a genetic susceptibility that makes them unable to effectively clear mold toxins. Over time, this buildup leads to systemic dysfunction.
Common Symptoms of CIRS and Mold Exposure
The symptoms of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome are often misdiagnosed as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, anxiety and other health conditions. Here are some common red flags:
1. Fatigue That Doesn’t Improve With Rest
Chronic exhaustion is one of the hallmark signs of mold-related illness.
2. Cognitive Issues (a.k.a. “Brain Fog”)
- Trouble concentrating
- Poor memory recall
- Difficulty finding words
- Difficulty learning new information
- Difficulty with Executive Function
3. Respiratory Problems
- Chronic coughing
- Shortness of breath (“Air Hunger”)
- Sinus congestion
4. Muscle and Joint Pain
Aches, stiffness, and sharp joint pain without any underlying injury or diagnosis. Fibromyalgia and Rheumatoid Arthritis are common diagnoses with water damaged building exposures.
5. Digestive Issues
- Bloating, gas, nausea
- Food sensitivities
- Diarrhea or constipation
6. Visual Disturbances
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- Eye pain
- Difficulty with contrast
7. Mood and Sleep Disturbances
- Anxiety or depression
- Insomnia or poor sleep quality
- Mood swings
- Rage
8. Temperature Dysregulation
- Chills without fever
- Feeling hot or cold at odd times
9. Skin Issues
- Rashes
- Itching
- Tingling or burning sensations
- Hives
10. Increased Static Shocks
People with CIRS often report frequent or extreme static electricity buildup — a surprisingly common complaint among mold sufferers.
Why Mold in Arkansas Homes Is a Serious Risk
Here in Arkansas, we deal with:
- High humidity
- Heavy seasonal rains
- Flood-prone basements and crawl spaces
- HVAC systems that easily harbor mold
Unfortunately, mold often grows in hidden areas, like behind walls, under floors, or in air ducts — where it is nearly impossible to detect with a visual inspection alone.
How K9 Mold Detection Can Help
Our trained mold detection dog is trained to sniff out mold, even when there are no visible signs or it is dormant (“dried out”). This is a powerful tool for homeowners who:
- Are experiencing symptoms of CIRS
- Have a history of water damage
- Want to ensure their home is safe before remodeling or moving in
Canine mold detection is fast, accurate, and non-invasive. We can guide you directly to the source — without costly guesswork or unnecessary demolition and testing.
Concerned You May Have CIRS?
If you suspect mold exposure could be impacting your health, here’s what to do:
- Document your symptoms — especially when they get better or worse.
- Don’t ignore your instincts. If you feel worse at home and better when away, that’s a big clue.
- Get your home inspected by K9 Mold Inspections LLC.
- Work with a mold-literate practitioner who understands CIRS and environmental illness.
Serving Homeowners Throughout Arkansas
At K9 Mold Inspections LLC, we proudly serve the state of Arkansas – including Little Rock, Hot Springs, Benton, Conway, Bryant, and surrounding areas. Our mission is to help you identify mold before it becomes a health nightmare.