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Meniere's Disease Triggers & Causes General Information on Meniere's Disease / Syndrome Uncategorized

Toxic Mold and Meniere’s

The hidden dangers of toxic mold and Meniere’s Disease

Mold and mycotoxins may be among the least spoken about serious threats to our health. The possible connections between mold and Meniere’s is not among the most commonly spoken about subjects when considering triggers and causes either.

The kind of  Toxic mold and mildew that can trigger Meniere's

Yet the possible connections have been known for many years. It is important to understand there can be many possible root causes and what is relevant to one Meniere’s sufferer may have little to no relevance in another.

According to Dr Mercola, “From a toxicity point of view, some mycotoxins (toxic substances produced by mold) are actually far more toxic than heavy metals, in terms of concentration. Mycotoxins also tend to affect more biological systems in your body than do pesticides or heavy metals, partly because fungi have the ability to dodge your immune system by rapidly mutating, while at the same time producing chemicals that suppress your immune system.”

He also says, “If your immune system is stressed in any way, or if you are extremely sensitive and have allergy-like reactions to a variety of agents then you may be even MORE sensitive to mold than the average person and have chronic symptoms directly related to mold in your environment. But even if you are generally healthy, mold can still pose a significant risk if you are caught off-guard.”

You need a healthy immune system to avoid Meniere’s symptoms, that’s a fact. We have seen for over a decade and a half that supporting your immune system with high quality supplements and a good diet has helped many people reduce their symptoms significantly regardless of their root cause.

However if your Meniere’s symptoms are a result of toxic molds, it may take specific nutrients in high enough levels to detox it from your body.

Molds have been associated with health problems that in themselves have been linked to Meniere’s such as sinus problems and autoimmune disease. Diagnostic tests for mold toxicity are very specific and one of those is a hearing test.

Toxic mold exposure has also been linked to neurological damage causing memory loss, insomnia, anxiety, depression, trouble concentrating, confusion. headaches, fatigue, nasal irritation and nausea.

Mold has also been linked to, dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus, ear infections, hearing loss, autoimmune inner ear disease and Meniere’s disease itself.

Video: Meniere’s disease – Airborne allergies and Mold

In a study published in the journal Nature, ‘Proinflammatory cytokines and response to molds in mononuclear cells of patients with Meniere disease’ it was concluded that “Aspergillus and Penicillium trigger the release of TNF-? in MD patients and this could initiate or exacerbate the inflammatory response in the inner ear.”

Aspergillus and Penicillium are types of mold. There are hundreds of types of aspergillus molds and mildews that can be inhaled.

Penicillium is a fungus that grows on spoiled foods and can be ingested.

Video: Meniere’s, Tinnitus, Ringing of the Ears driven by Mold?

Solutions to toxic mold and Meniere’s

I personally suffered for 7 years with Meniere’s symptoms [ I bo longer suffer from the symptoms of Meniere’s disease ]. During the absolute worst period of suffering I searched for mold in my house. It was the rainy season in Japan where I lived and at that time of year the moisture is incredible.

I found a huge patch of mold behind a set of drawers very near where my head would be while I slept. I immediately set about cleaning the mold and as a result very quickly brought on a violent vertigo attack.

It would be advisable to get a professional in to clear the mold because it may be all over your home without you knowing. If a professional is out of the question, then at least get someone else to clean it for you.

According to American mold expert Dr. Jack Thrasher, as many as 40 percent of American schools and 25 percent of homes have mold infestations, unbeknownst to the people occupying those buildings.

He says, “It follows that adverse health effects of mold may be reaching pandemic levels.”

Regarding humidity and mold Dr. Thrasher says,  anything above 60 percent is going to lead to growth of mold and bacteria… People have to be very careful about this situation. That’s why I call it a pandemic

If your home is prone to mold it would be advisable to (after clearing the mold) use an air purifier during the damp periods and make sure your house is well aired naturally in dryer periods.

Glutathione 

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant produced in cells. Research suggests that mycotoxins in mold can decrease the formation of glutathione due to decreased gene expression of the enzymes needed to form glutathione.

Mycotoxin-related compromise of glutathione production can result in an excess of oxidative stress that leads to tissue damage and systemic illness.

Glutathione  is needed to detox mold from your body. Your liver is your body’s main detox organ. This is where glutathione plays a major role in detoxifying your mold mycotoxins.

When there is not enough glutathione to eliminate the toxins they start to stack up in the liver and cause mitochondrial damage – your cells’ energy powerhouse – affecting glutathione production.

Glutathione has been shown to improve protein, enzyme, and bilirubin levels in the blood of individuals with alcoholic and nonalcoholic chronic fatty liver disease. A study reported that glutathione was most effective when given to people with fatty liver disease intravenously, in high doses.

Glutathione can be found in foods such as: asparagus, avocado, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, spinach, broccoli, garlic, chives, tomatoes, cucumber, almonds, and walnuts.

However, dietary glutathione is poorly absorbed by the human body. Additionally, cooking and storage conditions can decrease the amount found in food. So if you have been exposed to mold mycotoxins it is worth supplementing pro-glutathione nutrients.

Milk thistle, N-acetyl cysteine and superoxide dismutase supplements can activate glutathione production naturally.

If you found this article useful Click here to support Meniere’s Help paypal.me/menieres

Related articles:

By Mike Spencer

Founder of Meniere’s Help. Researcher and author of Managing Meniere’s Disease and The Need for Balance – Dealing with the Causes of Meniere’s

Do you have experience with toxic mold and the symptoms of Meniere’s ?

Help other sufferers. Tell us all about it in the comments box below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com

References/Further reading: Deficient Glutathione in the Pathophysiology of Mycotoxin-Related Illness

Categories
Meniere's Disease Triggers & Causes General Information on Meniere's Disease / Syndrome Meniere's Disease and Nutrition

Candida Albicans and Meniere’s Disease

There are plenty of accounts from Meniere’s sufferers who also suffer from candida and some accounts that suggest dealing with candida was followed by reduced or eliminated Meniere’s symptoms.

There are very few if any clinical studies linking candida or fungal infections ‘directly’ to Meniere’s Disease, but plenty linking them to vertigo, tinnitus, labyrinthitis and the ear. Given that “Meniere’s” is simply a label given to a set of perceived to be idiopathic symptoms, these studies must be important.

Dig slightly deeper and links can be found to other conditions that are themselves related to Meniere’s and possible root causes. These links may suggest that candida is either a root cause or at least an associated cause in some people.

What is candida albicans and how might it be linked to Meniere’s?

Candida albicans is a yeast that can be found in everyone.  Good bacteria in the body such as lactobacillus, acidophilus and bifidus usually keeps candida in check and stops any overgrowth. However if the immune system is compromised and body systems are thrown out of balance the yeast can proliferate and transform into pathogenic fungus that can further compromise the immune system and trigger a variety of symptoms and illnesses. The body also becomes more prone to allergies and infections as a result of this overgrowth.

Some possible causes of candida albican overgrowth (Candidiasis) are:

  • Prolonged use of anti-biotics
  • Oral contraceptives, estrogen-replacement and or steroid use (yeast festers in estrogen)
  • Anti-ulcer medication
  • Immune suppression from stress, environmental toxins, illness and infections
  • Poor dietary habits including high intake of sugar
  • Chemical/environmental toxins
  • Alcohol
  • Food and environmental allergies
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Diabetes (candida loves sugar)
  • Gallbladder problems
  • HCL & enzymatic deficiencies
  • Hypoglycemia/Hypoadrenia
  • Impaired liver function
  • Mercury leakage from Amalgam dental fillings

The emboldened and hyperlinked causes above have all been linked to Meniere’s disease. Given the overall need for strengthening your immune system to combat Meniere’s, the vicious cycle of immune suppression leading to fungal infection then fungal infection leading to more immune suppression alone is an obvious link in the many possible causes for Meniere’s in some people.

Finding your individual root cause for Meniere’s can seem daunting especially when there can be so many contributing triggers and causes all compounding your symptoms. For example: amalgam fillings leaking mercury can affect thyroid function, immune system, candida and is a known cause of Meniere’s symptoms. Hypothyroidism has been linked to Meniere’s, immune suppression and candida albicans overgrowth. Candida may be linked to Meniere’s. (See our readers messages below)

So if you are a Meniere’s sufferer and find you have hypothyroidism or candida albicans you may treat those individually and think it is enough. If you have one or more of these conditions but have missed the fact you have amalgam fillings then it is likely you will always be treating the symptoms and never addressing the cause.

By removing the amalgam from your body and detoxing the mercury from your system, strengthening your immune system through diet/supplements, re-balancing your thyroid/adrenal/endocrine system and treating the fungal infection, again a through nutrient application, then you should have covered all bases and dealt with the root cause(s) of your Meniere’s. (based on the hypothetical scenario above)

Stress is a known trigger and considered by some as a root cause of Meniere’s.  We see above that stress can cause candida albicans, it can also result in thyroid dysfunction. So again we see a possible root cause that can lead either directly to Meniere’s through irregularities in blood flow and/or cause other conditions that may ultimately lead to Meniere’s somewhere down the line.

When you are told or you read the cause of Meniere’s disease is unknown and there is no known cure, this is very deceptive. The fact that your Meniere’s symptoms are “idiopathic”, by very definition means that if you find your cause  [one of the above for example] your condition is no longer considered to be ‘Meniere’s’.

When you see the word ‘Meniere’s’ for what it is, a label for a set of symptoms, then finding and dealing with your root causes becomes a much less daunting task. By first changing your perception of the condition, then joining the dots regarding the causes and triggers it is possible to, not only eliminate Meniere’s from our life, but come out the other end with an even healthier immune system and more energy than before your symptoms started.

According to research done in Australia in 1996  Candida albicans is an important opportunistic pathogen that has been associated with disease of the inner ear.

What are the experiences of our readers?

Below are some extracts from emails sent to us ( used with permission )

Hi Michael,
Sorry for the delay in replying to you.
I am doing much better these days.   Someone told me about a doctor in Belfast who no longer worked for the NHS as he took a more alternative therapy view on health, a more holistic approach.  He diagnosed my problem as candida overgrowth. For this he put me on supplements to deal with the bacteria overgrowth and a strict diet (no yeast, no dairy, no sugar). He also had me attend a chiropractor as he felt my neck had a lot of tension in it which could be triggering some of my dizziness/vertigo. Since I have been on this diet & the supplements and finished course of chiropractor treatment i am feeling much better, more energy, no vertigo in 2 months, sleeping better….just feeling like my old self again!

Joanne

 
Hey Michael,
 
I’m doing pretty good. I’m taking more of the grape seed extract to stop dizziness. And thankfully it does help me. I have cut salt out of diet even with prepared foods. Sodium is so my enemy. I fasted for 3 days recently and had no dizziness at all. So I know it is food. I continue to be careful. God I miss potato chips.
I recently realized that I may be harboring candida yeast in my body–saliva test positive…….
Yes, of course you may use anything that I send you. Edit it as you see fit. As I definitely am telling you my experiences as honestly as possible, maybe my words will encourage someone to try this path. I also should tell you that I work out with a Nazi trainer…no, really!! I move a lot in the class. I try very hard to not trigger menieres in the workout and as a precaution, I take two extra grape seed extract.
 
If I did not take the grape seed extract, I would not be able to workout and would definitely have attacks that I could not control.
 
Thanks very much for asking after me. I do appreciate your emails.
Thanks,
Dodie
 
Hello Mike,
You’re right! Sorry about that. Hope you are well too.  I’m currently on a candida diet  and I’m still ok without attacks!
 

Hello Mike,

First, thank you for your terrific book! You have done incredible research and provide a wonderful guide. We are quite knowledgeable re Meniere’s from Jeff’s experience with this wretched disease diagnosed in 1997. Jeff was completely disabled from 1996-2001 when he was able to return to work and international travel due to correct treatment by a great New York doctor, Dr. Harold Levinson. We need to determine what blood work and other tests to try to do. Especially for herpes, bacterial, respiratory and other infections, virus, fungal infection, candida, food allergies

We are so enthusiastic re your work and grateful for your help and the terrific book!

Your friends, Candice & Jeff

 
Hi Mike,
 
Thank you so much for your continued support and yes you were absolutely right. It turns out I have candida. I am staying away from dairy, sugary food and no yeast. I take a probiotic and Vitamin b12 supplement. After being sick so for sooooo long it is wonderful to feel so healthy and energetic again. I promise I will keep you updated and yes please use my mails for your blog. People should know about this.
Thanks again
 
Denise
 
There are very few effective drugs for candida and the fungus can easily become drug resistant. Balancing your gut flora is essential and a healthy gut goes a very long way in a healthy body.
 

What can help eliminate candida overgrowth?

 
Probiotic foods such as natural yogurt, yakult and a quality probiotic supplement will help build your good gut bacteria which in turn will keep candida in check. Good bacteria lactobacillus, acidophilus and bifidus manufacture the B vitamins, biotin and B12 that helps control yeast.
 
B vitamins are essential particularly for a healthy gut. Consider strengthening your gut balance with a quality B12 supplement. B12 can not be found in plants. It can only be created in the gut. Meat contains B12 as it has been manufactured in animal guts which is why vegetarians are sometimes at risk of deficiency.
 
According to a study at Hindustan University of arts and Science, “Vitamin B12 was effective against Candida albicans
 
According to Dr Laurant Bannock who authored the much coveted ( and highly expensive) book ‘The Clinical Nutrition Desk Reference’,  Nutrient applications for candida albicans include: Supplement support to increase immune function, detoxification, adrenal support, essential fatty acids support and grapefruit seed extract – acts as an anti fungal and natural antibiotic.
He recommends:
  • Increase immune and digestive function, especially liver
  • Avoid sugar in all forms including fruit juices, fruit, dairy, products, honey, sucrose, dextrose, fructose, and possibly potatoes
  • Avoid alcohol, fermented and yeasty foods
  • Avoid food allergies/sensitivities
  • Eat sugar free yogurt, whole grains and organic meats
  • Avoid anti biotics
  • Follow candida diet ( a rotation may be helpful if allergies are present)
  • Avoid moldy places, chemical household products and chlorinated water
  • Avoid birth control pills
  • Promote healthy intestinal flora and increase fiber to eliminate toxins in the gut

Dr Edward Group of the Global Healing Center in Texas explains:

“With more and more of these organisms developing drug resistance, researchers are often looking for alternative remedies. A recent study looking at lavender oil may be just what any nature-loving herbalist needs for supporting immune health and possibly fighting candida. But while the essential oil shows good resistance to fungus, more research is needed to explore all its benefits.  Some reports suggest colloidal silver could be helpful against candida.  Now, while you might have heard taking garlic can help, recent research suggests that it’s actually not as beneficial against yeast as originally thought.  That being said, I highly suggest using garlic every day.

Candida overgrowth could also lead to a condition commonly called leaky gut, something that can lead to food sensitivities and intolerances, among other things. If you suspect you have candida or have been diagnosed, you need to take immediate action.”

Several studies cited on pubmed suggest supplementing with Vitamin B12 can improve both tinnitus and sensorineural hearing loss. The most recent ” Therapeutic role of Vitamin B12 in patients of chronic tinnitus” was published in 2016 (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4918681/)

The anti-vertigo treatment DiVertigo contains both Vit B12 an Vit B6. B12 is also part of the B complex used in Lipoflavonoid Plus

What is Beta-Glucanase?

Beta-glucans are health-promoting in that they act as intestinal fiber.  People suffering from an overgrowth of the candida fungus may benefit from taking beta-glucanase. Candida is notoriously difficult to eliminate because of its inherent ability to resist antimicrobial agents. Sadly, many people treat digestive problems and infections with prolonged and high-dose antibiotics which can be totally counterproductive.

Beta-glucanase is an enzyme that has been found to be particularly useful in reducing the coating or biofilm of Candida..

A great number of studies on enzymes have been conducted in Europe and Russia on human participants. The great majority suggests that a broad-spectrum enzyme preparation containing beta-glucanse can improve overall digestion and reduce a large amount of negative gastrointestinal issues.

Conclusion

Judging by the accounts of some sufferers, controlling your candida overgrowth and rebuilding your immune system may be all it takes to live free of Meniere’s symptoms but more than likely in most cases it may also take other positive proactive measures depending what other issues are present in the individual.

Each individual case may have varying pathology and root causes for Meniere’s. It is a case of gaining knowledge, knowing your own body and taking the appropriate action needed. If you are waiting for a ‘definitive’ root cause to be found and a wonder drug to appear you will be disappointed. Understanding what you are dealing with and taking the appropriate action in your own individual case, as we repeat ad nauseum throughout the Meniere’s Help website and blog can free you from Meniere’s. It can be done, it has been done by multiple thousands (just that we know of) and is being done all the time.

To restore overall gut health consider eliminating fungal causing foods, eating foods that promote good gut bacteria (see above) and supplementing with a quality probiotic and Vitamin B12 .

Sources: Menieres-Help.Com, The Global Healing Center, The Clinical Nutrition Desk Reference, University of Hindustan, PubMed, Noise & Health International Journal.

If you found this article useful Click here to support Meniere’s Help paypal.me/menieres

Related articles:

By Mike Spencer

Founder of Menieres-Help.Com -Supporting Sufferers Since 2004

Researcher & Author of Managing Meniere’s Disease and The Need for Balance – Dealing with the Causes of Meniere’s

Help other Meniere’s sufferers. What are your experiences with candida albicans, fungal infections and Meniere’s. Tell us all about it in the comments boxes below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com

References/Further reading:

Looking into Candida albicans infection, host response, and antifungal strategies

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