Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is a progressive, multi-system, multi-symptom illness that occurs when a person is exposed to biotoxins such as mold spores or biotoxins found in tick or spider bites. These toxins attach to the immune system, triggering an inflammatory response and inducing hormonal changes. The immune system produces an excess of cytokines that can lead to the immune system attacking its tissues, causing inflammation and other associated symptoms. CIRS is not a disease but a syndrome, and its symptoms are categorized into 13 unique clusters. If a person exhibits eight of these symptoms, it could indicate a positive CIRS diagnosis. Some of the common symptoms of CIRS include fatigue, cognitive complaints, memory loss, mood disorders, brain fog, loss of executive function, and hormonal imbalances. CIRS can affect virtually any organ system of the body and if left untreated, it can become debilitating.

CIRS can be caused by exposure to water-damaged buildings, tick or spider bites, and exposure to dinoflagellates. There is a genetic component that can be tested, and one in four Americans (adults and children) have a genetic susceptibility towards CIRS. CIRS is often misdiagnosed as fibromyalgia, ADHD, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and other conditions. The diagnosis of CIRS can be difficult since common parameters of inflammation are generally negative upon laboratory evaluation.

Effective therapies for CIRS exist, and the most important aspects of treating CIRS to reduce symptoms and overcome immune dysfunction on a permanent basis include taking toxin binders, reducing exposure to biotoxins, and addressing hormonal imbalances.