Episode #74: Lyme, Mold, and CIRS Explained: How Hidden Illness Hijacks the Immune System with Dr. Christian Navarro-Torres

Could mold, Lyme, or other hidden pathogens trigger an immune response so powerful that it actually rewires the body’s defenses? 

In this highly informative episode, Dr. Christian Navarro-Torres of CIRS Lab takes us on a deep dive into Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). He unpacks the science of how biotoxins from water-damaged buildings, bacteria, and chronic infections can drive the immune system into a constant state of dysregulation. You’ll gain clarity on the most effective testing options for diagnosing CIRS, hear the latest research linking it to neurological decline, and be inspired by real stories of remarkable recovery. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply curious, this episode delivers cutting-edge insights to help you understand CIRS and discover hopeful paths toward healing.

Episode Highlights

· What is Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), and what causes and symptoms define it? (4:04)

· Do you need a genetic predisposition to develop CIRS? (14:56)

· How is CIRS diagnosed, and why is it so challenging? (17:28)

· What can trigger CIRS? (23:09)

· Why does CIRS make it harder for the body to fight Lyme, Babesia, and Bartonella? (25:47)

· How common are tick-borne infections, and what makes them difficult to diagnose? (30:45)

· What is the best test for Lyme and coinfections? (36:51)

· What is Dr. Navarro-Torres’ personal story of recovering from CIRS? (40:13)

· What does the latest research reveal about CIRS? (45:21)

· How is CIRS linked to neurodegeneration? (50:53)
· What’s the newest way to complete NeuroQuant testing? What did imaging show in a patient whose brain began to heal from CIRS? (57:39)

Links mentioned in interview:

Visual Contrast Sensitivity Test: https://www.vcstest.com

Ritchie Shoemaker, Dennis House, and James Ryan, Structural brain abnormalities in patients with inflammatory illness acquired following exposure to water-damaged buildings: A volumetric MRI study using NeuroQuant®: https://www.survivingmold.com/docs/Structural_Brain_Abnormalities_in_Patients.PDF

Start Here tab: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-water-damage/

IGeniX Inc.: https://igenex.com

Dr. Dale Bredesen’s books: https://www.apollohealthco.com/books/

Get in touch with our guest:
CIRS Lab: https://www.cirslab.com

CIRS Research Foundation: https://cirs-research-foundation.org

Instagram: @cirslab

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CIRSlab

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cirslab

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation: 
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter:
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/stay-informed/

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or c