I have suffered from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) along with food allergies, insomnia, intermittent vertigo, hypertension, muscle cramps, intermittent constipation/diarrhea, severe nausea after food, cloudy brain, and severe fatigue. These symptoms had been present for about 25 years and had gradually increased in severity.
Discovery of Mould
In July 2011, while replacing the vanity unit in my en suite, mould was discovered. After some weeks, Mycotox, who specialize in testing and remediation, were called in. Samples of mould were taken for culture. Other areas of the house were also tested, revealing severe contamination in a guest room beneath the kitchen due to several leaks from faulty dishwasher fittings.
Immediate Actions
Sixteen days later, after the moulds had been cultured and analyzed, I was instructed to seal the bedroom and ensuite as pathogenic mould and bacterial endotoxins were present. I began sleeping in my lounge room, avoiding the affected areas.
Impact on Daily Life
Fatigue had been so great that, although I could continue my work as a chiropractor, I could not cope with any extra exertion. Therefore, there was no exercise occurring, and many small domestic tasks were constantly neglected.
Signs of Improvement
By living in the house with the affected areas sealed, my fatigue began lifting by October 30, 2011. There was a marked improvement, and I started coping with mundane tasks without a second thought. Severe nausea improved by about 80%, and my sleep patterns changed, allowing me to sleep 3-4 hours at a stretch instead of 1-2 hours.
Setbacks and Further Actions
This improvement was interrupted for 10 days after a 2-hour exposure to perfume, but the reaction ceased by October 28, 2011. From October 15-30, I took holidays from work. On October 25, the workplace was tested and found to have very high levels of contamination. A vaporizing gas unit was installed on November 4 for 36 hours to decrease exposure within the workplace.
Returning to Work
On returning to work on November 6, the air in the clinic smelled fresher. I noticed that I no longer needed to pull over for a nap after work, and I was not draggingly fatigued at the end of the working day.
Continued Progress
From November 10-12, I was able to rise early and exercise, using the rowing machine at a faster pace than before. Blood pressure taken on November 11 was 156/105, lower than previous readings. Muscle cramping at night continued but was related to chemical exposure from other sources.
For about 12 months, I had woken most nights with maxillary sinuses full and streaming, and eyes watering. Since my holidays from work, this symptom has greatly abated.
Final Note
On November 18, after a heavy day at work, I entered the bedroom expecting a low level of vapor. I was in the room for about 30 seconds and then phoned Vince about the next week’s schedule, feeling well.
