How do you Test for Mold in Your Body?
Diagnostic testing for mold in your body can be a great option for most people. Through a simple urine test, labs can identify mycotoxins (the toxins that mold produces).
What to Know Before Testing For Mold Mycotoxins
#1 Connect the Dots
Testing for mycotoxins in your body can be a great way to connect the dots between environmental testing and what is actually happening in your body. Below, you can see on the left is my daughter’s mycotoxin test, and on the right the ERMI environmental test score. Aspergillus Ochraceus is one of the primary molds that produces the mycotoxin Ochratoxin A. We knew after seeing both of these tests that we found the true cause of many of her symptoms!
It’s a match!
#2 Know Your Mycotoxins
Another reason knowing which mycotoxins you are dealing with in your body can be helpful is knowing how to properly detox. If you are working with a medical provider that is knowledgable about mold, they can use this information to inform treatment decisions. For example, certain mycotoxins can respond in different ways to certain binders which is a common treatment. We have found this page on 8 different binders for mycotoxins to be very helpful over the years as we have treated ourselves at various times for mold toxicity.
#3 No Mold Test is Perfect
This has been our mantra. Mycotoxin tests can be very sensitive. Many mold practitioners will have elaborate protocols to follow before conducting the actual urine test to make sure that it is as accurate as possible. If you are unsure of how to prepare properly, or have doubts on whether or not the data will be actionable for you and your family, we strongly recommend that you work with a medical professional that treats mold regularly.
#5 Mycotoxin Tests are Easy
One of the great things about mycotoxin urine testing is that it is relatively easy. In many states you can order a testing kit directly to your house without a doctor order and get results directly from the laboratory. If you live in a state where you aren’t able to order directly, your mold practitioner can easily order a test kit.
#6 Are Mycotoxin Test Covered By Insurance?
The short answer is no. However, if you have met your out of network deductible for certain insurance plans, the labs can provide CPT codes for you that you can use to submit to the insurance companies to get reimbursed. All tests have to be paid for up front.
