Viral Illness Survey Case Summaries: Mild/Moderate Lung Issues With High Fever
May 11, 2020
By Lisa Petrison, Ph.D.
This page provides a summary of the case reports from some of the first individuals to respond to the Paradigm Change Coronavirus Covid-19 and Viral Illness Poll.
Individuals included on this page are those who reported that they had a fever of 100F or more as well as moderate or mild lung symptoms.
Patient summaries are arranged in chronological order by illness onset date. Patients with onset dates prior to December 1, 2019, are listed in the “Earlier Cases” section at the bottom of the page.
An overview of the initial summary results is provided on a separate Paradigm Change blog page.
Overview
Number of cases: 36
Average Severity Score: 42
Severity Score Range: 15-73
Recovery Status (21+ Days):
30 cases
43% – Totally Recovered
17% – Mostly Recovered
3% – Somewhat Recovered
17% – A little better
3% – Not feeling better but the situation seems stable
3% – Not feeling better and the situation seems to be getting worse
3% – I remain vigilant because it feels like it might come back like gangbusters (write-in)
10% – Acute viral-type symptoms basically resolved but chronic illness issues are worse
Illness Onset:
3% – October 2019
8% – November 2019
17% – December 2019
11% – January 2019
22% – February 2019
39% – March 2019
Chronic Illness History (ME/CFS/CIRS/Lyme/etc.):
39% – Severe
47% – Moderate
6% – Mild
8% – None
Severe Symptoms:
Generally feel terrible, 46%; Tiredness, 40%; Weakness, 23%; Sleepiness, 23%; Runny nose, 20%; Feverish feelings, 17%; Dry cough, 14%; Elevated temperature, 14%; Muscle aches, 14%; Headache, 11%; Dehydration, 9%; Chills, 9%; Joint pain, 9%; Difficulty breathing, 6%; Shortness of breath, 6%; Lung pressure, 6%; Bronchitis, 6%; Loss of appetite, 6%; Loss of smell, 6%; Bone pain, 6%; Pain when moving body parts, 6%; Lung pain, 3%; Wet cough, 3%; Sore throat, 3%; Sore voice, 3%; Nausea, 3%; Loss of taste, 3%; Pneumonia, 0%; Difficulties swallowing, 0%; Diarrhea, 0%; Vomiting, 0%; Abdominal pain, 0%; Blue lips or face, 0%; Sneezing, 0%
Moderate or Severe Symptoms:
Tiredness, 94%; Generally feel terrible, 83%; Feverish feelings, 80%; Elevated temperature, 71%; Headache, 71%; Muscle aches, 71%; Chills, 66%; Weakness, 66%; Sleepiness, 66%; Dry cough, 60%; Sore throat, 51%; Pain when moving body parts, 51%; Runny nose, 49%; Lung pain, 46%; Difficulty breathing, 43%; Shortness of breath, 43%; Lung pressure, 40%; Joint pain, 37%; Wet cough, 29%; Dehydration, 29%; Diarrhea, 29%; Loss of appetite, 29%; Bone pain, 29%; Difficulties swallowing, 23%; Sore voice, 23%; Nausea, 23%; Bronchitis, 20%; Abdominal pain, 20%; Sneezing, 17%; Loss of smell, 14%; Pneumonia, 9%; Loss of taste, 9%; Vomiting, 3%; Blue lips or face, 0%
Mild, Moderate or Severe Symptoms:
Feverish feelings, 97%; Tiredness, 97%; Muscle aches, 94%; Generally feel terrible, 94%; Headache, 91%; Elevated temperature, 91%; Dry cough, 89%; Weakness, 89%; Chills, 86%; Shortness of breath, 83%; Sore throat, 83%; Lung pressure, 77%; Runny nose, 77%; Sleepiness, 77%; Difficulty breathing, 74%; Pain when moving body parts, 74%; Lung pain, 69%; Loss of appetite, 66%; Dehydration, 63%; Joint pain, 63%; Diarrhea, 51%; Abdominal pain, 51%; Bone pain, 51%; Wet cough, 49%; Difficulties swallowing, 49%; Sore voice, 49%; Sneezing, 49%; Nausea, 46%; Loss of taste, 37%; Bronchitis, 29%; Loss of smell, 26%; Vomiting, 11%; Pneumonia, 9%; Blue lips or face, 0%
David
Patient Number: 2
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered.
Severity Score: 42
Time Since Onset: 175 days
Onset Location: Near San Juan, Puerto Rico
Prior Locations: Fishers, IN. Indianapolis, IN. Flew to Puerto Rico through Atlanta.
Chronic Illness History: Mild
Mold Avoidance: No
Onset Date: 10/9/19
Lung Date: 10/11/19
Lung Symptom Lag: 2 days
Lung Severity: Mild problem
High Fever: 102-103 F (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Totally bedridden.
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse.
Duration: Very severe – 5 days; Severe – 3 days; Moderate – 6 days; Mild – 21 days (add 14 days if relapse should be included)
Initial Symptom: Low grade fever; Headache; Congestion; Drainage.
Severe Symptoms: Bronchitis; Feverish feelings; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Dry cough; Headache; Loss of smell; Elevated temperature; Chills; Runny/stuffy nose; Weakness
Mild Symptoms: Lung/chest pressure; Wet cough; Loss of appetite; Loss of taste; Muscle aches; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts
Not An Issue: Pneumonia; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Bone pain; Sneezing
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, more severe, harder to get over
Practitioner: Saw practitioner. Said blood pressure was very high, heart rate was very high, lower lungs were clear, bronchial tubes were wet. Diagnosed with bronchitis.
Decade Born: 1950’s
Gender: Male
Living: House; AC Hotel by Marriott in San Juan
Previous Colds/Flus: One every couple of years
Blood Pressure: High (on medication)
Chronic Conditions: Asthma, Autoimmune, Food sensitivities, Compromised immune system, Hypogammaglobic anemia, Hypothyroidism, Pituitary tumor
Worst Neurological: Not experienced
ME/CFS: Not A Problem – All symptoms
Most severe activity level: Could be active 60 hours a week or more
Recent activity level: Could be active 60 hours a week or more
Mold Avoidance: Not pursued
HH Member #1: 1960’s; Hypothyroidism, MCS; No acute illness
Critically Important: Azithromycin (Z-pack); Other antibiotic drugs (Augmentin); Cough syrup (prescription)
Very Helpful: Rest
Somewhat Helpful: Vitamin D; Citrus fruits; Gargling (salt water); Rinsing sinuses (NeilMed sinus rinse and purified water)
No Effect: Bathe and change clothes frequently; Spend time outdoors in good locations; Sun exposure; Take warm/hot baths
Harmful: Ginger
Don’t know: Vitamin A; Vitamin C (1500 mg); Vitamin E; Iodine; Selenium; Zinc (15 mg); Probiotics; Stay warm
Puerto Rico Details: Stayed the AC by Marriott hotel on an extended business trip. Had been to work, restaurants, other public places. Temperature was around 86 degrees. Multiple sick people in the office in the FEMA building. The AC Hotel had mold in the ac unit and the drapes got moldy toward the end October. (Did not have moldy drapes when checked in, but room was musty…all rooms were musty, though.) Had not been to mall yet (covered indoor mall). There were quite a few Chinese in Puerto Rico, buildings with Chinese signs, people said there were Chinese businesses there.
Illness Details: Saw doctor 6th day of illness. Doctor gave Augmentin (antibiotics) and a compounded herbal-based cough syrup made up of steroid, cough suppressant, and another component. Doctor also gave an antihistamine. Also did sinus rinses multiple times a day. Got much better over the next week but didn’t feel good until 10/26/19. Then came back home for a week but was still tired, dry cough, pressure in lungs. Went back to Puerto Rico first week of November. Started feeling bad again the second week of November,,,fatigue, sinus congestion, and cough returned, so took Zpak, which the doctor had prescribed in case it was needed. Got better but still had mild cough and congestion/drainage when he came back to Indiana for Thanksgiving. Went back to PR the first of December and was healthy the rest of the time. Returned home at Christmas and did not go back. (Note: A male coworker who was around 30 years old got sick at the same time, had same symptoms but milder, but he recovered in a week.)
Dawn
Author Comments: This individual lives in northeast Texas, between Dallas and Shreveport, LA. Apart from the early onset date (early November 2019), this looks like a typical moderately severe case of Covid-19.
Patient Number: 4
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 50
Time Since Onset: 150 days
Onset Location: Henderson, TX
Prior Locations: Tyler/Kilgore/Longview, TX
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Somewhat
Onset Date: 11/2/19
Lung Date: 11/2/19
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Moderate problem
High Fever: 100-101F (usually lower than normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Almost totally bedridden
Relapse: I have experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Very severe – 4 days; Moderate – 10 days
Initial Symptom: Shortness of breath; Dry cough; Fever; Headache; Extreme fatigue
Very Severe Symptoms: Dry cough; Sore voice
Severe Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Elevated temperature; Weakness; Tiredness; Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Headache; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Runny/stuffy nose
Mild Symptoms: Sore/painful throat; Loss of appetite; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Bone pain; Sleepiness
Not An Issue: Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Difficulties swallowing; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Sneezing
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Harder to get over
Practitioner: Discussed with practitioner
Decade Born: 1950’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: Rarely or never
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: Normal (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Mild
ME/CFS: Severe – Unrefreshing Sleep; Sensitivities; Moderate – Cognitive, Muscle/Joint Pain; Mild – Headaches; Not A Problem – PEM, OI
Most severe activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made a big effort, health improved somewhat
Mold Avoidance Skill: Very good
Mold Exposure: Not very clear
Somewhat Helpful: Prescription cough syrup; Cough drops; Vicks VapoRub; Rest
No Effect: Stay Warm
Suzanne
Patient Number: 5
Current Condition: I feel mostly recovered
Severity Score: 52
Time Since Onset: 144 days
Onset Location: Maybrook, NY
Prior Locations: Blooming Grove/Newburgh/Montgomery, NY
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 11/11/19
Lung Date: 12/11/19
Lung Symptom Lag: 30 days
Lung Severity: Moderate problem
High Fever: 101-102F (usually normal)
Bedridden: Not bedridden
Relapse: I felt like I was basically recovered but then had a substantial relapse.
Duration: Severe – 7 days; Moderate – 7 days; Mild – 5 days
Initial Symptom: Mucus; Dry bronchial cough
Very Severe Symptoms: Wet cough
Severe Symptoms: Dry cough; Dehydration; Runny/stuffy nose; Weakness; Tiredness; Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Bronchitis; Headache; Sore/painful throat; Sore voice; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts
Mild Symptoms: Loss of appetite; Abdominal pain; Sneezing; Sleepiness
Not An Issue: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Pneumonia; Difficulties swallowing; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Blue lips or face
Additional Symptoms: Mucus at bedtime
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): More severe
Practitioner: Saw a practitioner (said was viral illness)
Decade Born: 1960’s
Gender: Female
Living: Apartment
Previous Colds/Flus: Several per year
Blood Pressure: High (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: MCAS, Psychiatric (Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorder), Toxic Mold Illness, GERD, Chronic Sinusitis, Chronic Insomnia, Hair Loss, Dehydration
Worst Neurological: Moderately severe
ME/CFS: Very severe – Cognitive, Unrefreshing sleep, Sensitivities; Severe – Muscle/Joint Pain; Moderate – PEM, Headaches; Not A Problem – OI
Most severe activity level: Rarely could go out but not bedridden
Recent activity level: Could be active 20 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made some effort, improved somewhat
Mold Avoidance Skill: Very good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
HH Member #1: 1970’s; No chronic conditions; Moderately severe acute illness with lung symptoms
HH Member #2: 2000’s; No chronic conditions; Moderately severe acute illness with lung symptoms
Very Helpful: Vitamin C; Probiotics
Somewhat Helpful: Curcumin; Echinacea
No Effect: Vitamin E, Iodine; Melatonin; Alcohol; Citrus fruits; MCT or coconut oil; Electrolyte beverage
Barbara
Patient Number: 7
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 41
Time Since Onset: 119 days
Onset Location: Southern Maryland
Previous Locations: Brazil (Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paolo), Argentina (Buenos Aires), Uruguay (Montevideo), Faulkland Islands, Atlanta Airport, Cruise Ship (Holland America Zaandam), BWI Airport, Southern Maryland
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: No
Onset Date: 11/23/19
Lung Date: 11/25/19
Lung Symptom Lag: 2 days
Lung Severity: Moderate Problem
High Fever: 101-102 (usually low)
Bedridden During Illness: Totally bedridden
Relapse: Experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Moderate Illness – 14 days
Initial Symptom: Fatigue; Body Aches; Dry Cough; Congestion
Severe Symptoms: Sore/Painful throat; Dehydration; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung or chest pain; Dry cough; Bronchitis; Headache; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Pain when moving body parts
Mild Symptoms: Loss of appetite; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills
Not An Issue: Wet cough; Pneumonia; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Feelings of Nausea; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms; more severe; harder to get over
Practitioner: Saw Practitioner. Said “Upper Respiratory Viral Infection.”
Decade Born: 1950’s
Gender: Female
Living: Townhouse
Previous Colds/Flus: 1-2 per year
Blood Pressure: Normal (medication to lower)
Chronic Conditions: Autoimmune illness; Chronic/Post Lyme; Fibromyalgia; ME/CFS; POTS; Lupus; Adrenal Insufficiency
Worst Neurological: None
ME/CFS: Very Severe – OI, Unrefreshing Sleep; Severe – PEM, Headaches; Moderate – Cognitive, Muscle/Joint Pain, Sensitivities
Most severe activity level: Rarely could go out but not bedridden
Recent activity level: Rarely could go out but not bedridden
Mold Avoidance: Not pursued
HH Member #1: 1950; Atrial Fibrillation, ICD, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol; Moderate Illness with Lung Issues
Medical treatment: Already taking doxycycline. Also took Z-pack.
Critically Important: Melatonin; Electrolyte Beverage; Ginger; Cough Drops; Non-Prescription Cough Syrup; Reduce Stress; Rest
Very Helpful: Other Essential Oils; Z-Pack; Prescription Cough Syrup; Acetaminophen; Aspirin; Ibuprofen; Stay warm
Somewhat Helpful: Bathe and change clothes frequently; Gargling; Nebulizer
Don’t know: Chloroquine; Cortisol/Cortisone; Hydroxychloroquine; Stay out of moldy buildings
Emma
Patient Number : 103
Current Condition: I feel a little better but not recovered
Severity Score: 40
Time Since Onset: 126 days
Onset Location: Rapid City, SD
Prior Locations: Greeley, CO
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 12/1/19
Lung Date: 12/1/19
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Moderate problem
High Fever: 103-104 F (usually low)
Bedridden During Illness: Totally bedridden
Relapse: I felt like I was basically recovered but then had a substantial relapse. (Relapsed 1/5/20)
Duration: Severe illness – 7 days
Initial Symptom: Tightness in chest; Vomiting; Flu-like symptoms; High fever; Sore throat; Headaches
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Headache; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Elevated temperature; Weakness; Tiredness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Dry cough; Wet cough; Sore/painful throat; Vomiting; Abdominal pain; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Runny/stuffy nose
Not An Issue: Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Blue lips or face; Sneezing; Sleepiness
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): More severe
Practitioner: Not discussed (Concerned about mold/chemicals; Doubt would be able to help; Avoid healthcare practitioners in general)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One every several years
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: Normal (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: Chronic/Post Lyme; ME/CFS; Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Very severe
ME/CFS: Severe – PEM, Cognitive, Muscle/Joint Pain, Sensitivities; Moderate – OI, Unrefreshing Sleep; Not A Problem – Headaches
Most severe activity level: Basically bedridden but could participate in conversations
Recent activity level: Could be active 20 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, health improved somewhat
Mold Avoidance Skill: Very good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
HH Member #1: 2000’s; ME/CFS/CIRS; Moderately severe acute illness with lung symptoms
HH Member #2: 2010’s; ME/CFS/CIRS; Moderately severe acute illness with lung symptoms
HH Member #3: 2010’s; No chronic; Moderately severe acute illness with lung symptoms
HH Member #4: 1970’s; No chronic; Moderate acute illness with lung symptoms
Critically Important: Stay out of moldy buildings
Very Helpful: Bathe and change clothes frequently; Spend time outdoors in good locations; Stay warm; Sun exposure; Take warm/hot baths
Somewhat Helpful: CBD; Essential oils; Probiotics; Electrolyte beverages; Hot peppers; Raw honey; Antifungal drugs; Reduce stress
No Effect: Rest
Additional Helpful Treatments: Minerals, Elderberry, Probiotics, Black seed oil, Homemade chicken noodle soup, Essential oils diffused, Activated charcoal
Edwardo
Patient Number: 100
Current Condition: I feel mostly recovered
Severity Score: 33
Time Since Onset: 120 days
Onset Location: Atlanta, GA
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 12/9/19
Lung Date: 12/9/19
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Mild problem
High Fever: 102-103F (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Almost totally bedridden
Relapse: I have experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Severe – 5 days; Moderate – 7 days; Mild – 14 days
Initial Symptom: Sore throat; Fever; Chest congestion; Cough
Moderate Symptoms: Sore/painful throat; Difficulty swallowing; sore voice; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Dry cough; Wet cough; Headache; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Loss of appetite; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing; Weakness
Not An Issue: Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Vomiting; Nausea; Loss of smell; Blue lips or face;
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms; more severe, harder to get over
Practitioner: Saw a practitioner. Could not identify the illness after running many tests. Antibiotics did not help. I started high-dose Vitamin C and antiviral meds on Day 4.
Decade Born: 2000’s
Gender: Male
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: Normal (Not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: ADD/ADHD; IBS symptoms; Exposed to mold
Worst Neurological: Moderate
ME/CFS: Mild – Unrefreshing Sleep, Sensitivities; Not A Problem – PEM, Cognitive, OI, Headaches, Muscle/Joint Pain
Most severe activity level: Rarely could go out but not bedridden
Recent activity level: Could be active 40 hours per week
Mold Avoidance: Big effort, health improved somewhat
Mold Avoidance Skill: Fairly good
Mold Exposure: Somewhat clear
HH Member #1: 1970’s; Mold toxicity, chronic fatigue, CIRS, Heavy metal toxicity, probably Lyme; Not sure about acute illness
HH Member #2: 2000’s; Mold toxicity, CIRS; Not sure about acute illness
Critically Important: Electrolyte beverage; Antiviral drugs (Valcyclovir); Reduce stress; Rest; Stay out of moldy buildings
Very Helpful: Vitamin C; Vitamin D; Elderberry; Probiotics; Citrus fruits; MCT or coconut oil; Ginger; Raw honey; Spend time outdoors in good locations; Stay warm; Sun exposure; Take warm/hot baths; Ozone therapy
Somewhat Helpful: Vicks VapoRub; Gargling (Himalayan salt water)
No Effect: Azithromycin; Other antibiotics
Don’t know: Vitamin A; Vitamin E; Iodine; Quercetin ; Selenium ; Zinc ; CBD ; Curcumin ; Essential oils; Ibuprofen; Bathe and change clothes frequently
Treatment Comments: Smarty pants PhD vitamin and probiotic, additional, higher doses of vitamins C, D, selenium, K+2 potassium and zinc. We also take a neuro-spectrum vitamin powder. Elderberry infused honey, 3x daily. Homemade electrolyte drink with Himalayan sea salt, lemon, lime, and concentrace minerals, methylated B vitamins, chlorophyll drops, maybe iodine for him, (I don’t remember), baking soda in water, adrenal cocktails. We do so much as a family, it’s difficult to remember exactly who got what. Household members #1 and #2 also got Meyer cocktail IV’s (minus glutathione). The person who was most sick with this mystery illness has been the least sick from mold exposure. The person who has been most sick from mold toxicity was the least sick from mystery illness. The person who has been moderately sick from mold toxicity was also moderately sick from mystery illness. At least seven days of solid sleep and rest.
Additional Comments: Horrific sore throat was the main complaint throughout the duration of the illness. Negative for strep, mono and flu. Not diagnosed with bronchitis or pneumatia. Given antibiotic that did nothing. Took valcyclovir with maybe a dozen supplements and home remedies and did okay. Lots of mucus beginning on/about day five. Exhaustion and fatigue lasted about 3 weeks total. The main patient is still kinda tired.
Kelly
Patient Number: 16
Current Condition: I felt a little better but not recovered.
Severity Score: 38
Time Since Onset: 101 days
Onset Location: Southwest Florida
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Somewhat
Onset Date: 12/22/19
Lung Date: 12/24/19
Lung Symptom Lag: 2 days
Lung Severity: Moderate
High Fever: 101-102F (Usually low)
Bedridden: Mostly bedridden
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse
Initial Symptom: Sore throat, fever
Severe Symptoms: Headache
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Wet cough; Sore/painful throat; Loss of appetite; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Weakness; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Bronchitis; Dehydration; Runny/stuffy nose
Not An Issue: Pneumonia; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Sneezing
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, more severe, harder to get over
Practitioner: Not discussed (concerned about out-of-pocket costs)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: Low (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: Autoimmune, Food Sensitivities, ME/CFS, MCAS, POTS, Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Moderate
ME/CFS: Severe – Unrefreshing Sleep, Sensitivities; Moderate – Cognitive, OI, Headaches, Muscle/Joint Pain; Mild – PEM
Most severe activity level: Could be active 30 hours per week
Recent activity level: Could be active 30 hours per week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, health stayed about same
Mold Avoidance Skill: Fairly good
Mold Exposure: Not very clear
HH Member #1: 2000’s; CIRS; Mild acute illness with lung symptoms
Barry
Patient Number: 104
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 31
Time Since Onset: 100 days
Onset Location: NYC
Prior Locations: Harrisburg, PA
Chronic Illness History: None (except high blood pressure)
Mold Avoidance: Somewhat
Onset Date: 12/29/19
Lung Severity: Very mild problem
High Fever: Moderately problematic elevated temperature
Bedridden During Illness: Mostly bedridden
Relapse: I have experienced improvements without substantial relapse.
Duration: Moderate – 1 day; Mild – 3 days
Initial Symptom: Fever, Headache, Slight cough, Aching
Moderate Symptoms: Dry cough; Headache; Dehydration; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Lung/chest pressure; Sore/painful throat; Diarrhea; Nausea; Appetite; Abdominal pain; Weakness
Not An Issue: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Vomiting; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Blue lips or face; Bone pain; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Not discussed. (I was traveling at the time and by the time I returned home, I was feeling significantly better.)
Decade Born: 1960’s
Gender: Male
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Flu Shot: I think I received but not certain
Blood Pressure: High (taking medication to lower)
Chronic Conditions: None of the above
Worst Neurological: Not experienced
ME/CFS: Moderate – Unrefreshing sleep; Mild – Muscle/Joint Pain; Not A Problem – PEM, Cognitive, OI, Headaches, Sensitivities
Most severe activity level: Could be active 60 hours per week
Recent activity level: Could be active 60 hours per week
HH Member #1: 1970’s; Depression; Moderate illness with lung symptoms
HH Member #2: 2000’s; None; No illness
HH Member #3: 2000’s; None; No illness
Additional Comments: I had a fever and headache that seem to come and go. When I had it I needed to lay down and rest. Sometimes I thought I would feel better and I would get up and immediately feel the symptoms again.
Melissa
Patient Number: 20
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 33
Time Since Onset: 93 days
Onset Location: Disney World, Orlando, FL
Prior Locations: Northern Virginia
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 12/31/19
Lung Date: 1/4/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 4 days
Lung Severity: Very mild problem
High Fever: 100-101F (usually low)
Bedridden: Not really bedridden but slept a great deal.
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse.
Duration: Moderate – A little over a month
Initial Symptom: Sore throat; Glands hurt; Body aches; Fever
Severe Symptoms: Runny/stuffy nose
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Dry cough; Wet cough; Headache; Sore/painful throat; Loss of taste; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Weakness; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Shortness of breath; Sore voice
Not An Issue: Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Difficulties swallowing; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Loss of smell; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Sneezing
Additional Symptoms: Double ear infection that lasted a little over a month
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): More severe
Practitioner: Saw a practitioner
Decade Born: 1960’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: Rarely or never
Chronic Conditions: Autoimmune; Chronic/Post Lyme; Food sensitivities; Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Not sure
ME/CFS: Severe – Cognitive, Unrefreshing sleep, Sensitivities; Moderate – PEM, Muscle/Joint Pain; Mild – OI; Not A Problem – Headaches
Most severe activity level: Could go out a few times a week
Recent activity level: Could go out a few times a week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, health improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Very good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
Somewhat Helpful: Azithromycin, Ibuprofen, Rest, Rinsing sinuses
No Effect: Stay out of moldy buildings
Becky
Patient Number: 96
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 26
Time Since Onset: 95 days
Onset Location: Harrisburg, PA
Prior Locations: NYC; Washington DC
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: No
Onset Date: 1/3/20
Lung Date: 1/3/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Very mild
Duration: Moderate – 3 days; Mild – 7 days
High Fever: 102-103 F (usually lower than normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Not really bedridden but slept a great deal
Relapse: I have experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Initial Symptom: Fever; Sore throat; Chills
Moderate Symptoms: Shortness of breath; Headache; Sore/painful throat; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Difficulties swallowing; Dehydration; Muscle aches; Weakness
Not An Issue: Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Sore voice; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, harder to get over
Practitioner: Not Discussed (Illness not severe enough; Doubt would be able to help)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One every couple of years
Flu Shot: Definitely received
Blood Pressure: Normal (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: Autoimmune; Food sensitivities; IBS; Psychiatric (Major Depressive Disorder; Anxiety Disorder)
Worst Neurological: Moderately severe
ME/CFS: Very Severe – Unrefreshing Sleep; Moderate – PEM, Cognitive, Muscle/Joint Pain; Not A Problem – OI, Headaches; Sensitivities
Most severe activity level: Rarely could go out, not bedridden
Recent activity level: Could be active 60 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Not pursued
HH Member #1: 1960’s; High blood pressure; Moderate acute illness with lung symptoms
HH Member #2: 2000’s; No chronic conditions listed; Mild acute illness with lung symptoms
HH Member #3: 2000’s; No chronic conditions listed; No acute illness
Somewhat Helpful: Electrolyte beverage; Acetaminophen; Ibuprofen; Rest
No Effect: Alcohol; Cough drops; Non-prescription cough syrup
Martha
Patient Number: 24
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 37
Time Since Onset: 70 days
Onset Location: Allentown, PA
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 1/11/20
Lung Date: 1/11/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Very mild
High Fever: 101-102 (usually low)
Bedridden During Illness: Mostly bedridden
Relapse: I felt like I was basically recovered but then had a substantial relapse. (Felt like a flu, got over it after 2 weeks, felt okay, then a week later got a cold.)
Duration: Moderate – 14 days.
Initial Symptom: Sore throat for 6 days – never had a sore throat that long before. Low fever; Malaise; Fatigue; Weak
Very Severe Symptoms: Generally feeling terrible
Severe Symptoms: Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Tiredness; Sleepiness
Moderate Symptoms: Lung/chest pain; Sore/painful throat; Diarrhea; Weakness
Mild Symptoms: Shortness of breath; Dry cough; Headache; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing
Not An Issue: Difficulty breathing; Lung/chest pressure; Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Dehydration; Vomiting; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Pain when moving body parts
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Not seen (Doubt would be able to help)
Decade Born: 1950’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Blood Pressure: Normal (no medication)
Chronic Conditions: Autoimmune, Chronic/Post Lyme, POTS, Toxic Mold Illness, Meniere’s
Worst Neurological: Mild
ME/CFS: Very severe – PEM, Cognitive, OI, Unrefreshing sleep, Sensitivities; Moderate – Headaches; Not a problem – Muscle/Joint Pain
Most severe activity level: Basically bedridden but could participate in conversations
Recent activity level: Could go out a few times a week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, health improved somewhat
Mold Avoidance Skill: Very good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
Critically Important: Rest; Stay out of moldy buildings
Somewhat Helpful: Ginger; Aspirin; Stay warm
No Effect: Vitamin A; Vitamin C (500-1000 mg); Vitamin D; Vitamin E; Selenium; Berberines; Elderberry; Echinacea; Garlic essential oil (ingested); Oregano oil; Other essential oils; Garlic pills; Colloidal silver; Probiotics; Raw honey; Vicks VapoRub; Nebulizer
Don’t know: Bathe and change clothes frequently
Amy
Patient Number: 30
Current Condition: I feel basically recovered from the acute viral symptoms, but other chronic illness issues are worse. (Joint pain, arthritis, digestive problems, chronic fatigue)
Severity Score: 64
Time Since Onset: 66 days
Onset Location: Tucson, AZ
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 1/28/20
Lung Date: 1/31/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 3 days
Lung Severity: Very mild problem
High Fever: 102-103 (usually low)
Bedridden: Mostly bedridden
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse
Duration: Severe – 1 day; Moderate – 3 days; Mild – 7 days
Initial Symptom: Chronic fatigue
Very Severe Symptoms: Elevated temperature; Muscle aches; Tiredness
Severe Symptoms: Headache; Feverish feelings; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Runny/Stuffy nose; Weakness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Dry cough; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Dehydration; Loss of appetite; Abdominal pain; Chills; Sneezing
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Wet cough; Bronchitis; Diarrhea; Nausea; Loss of smell; Bone pain
Not An Issue: Pneumonia; Vomiting; Loss of taste; Blue lips or face
Additional Symptoms: Severe sinus infection
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, harder to get over
Practitioner: Saw practitioner (just thought I had flu)
Decade Born: 1960’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: Low (not taking medicine)
Chronic Conditions: Autoimmune, Food sensitivities, ME/CFS, MCS, Toxic mold Illness, Gallstones
Worst Neurological: Moderate
ME/CFS: Severe – Headaches; Moderate – PEM, Cognitive, Unrefreshing sleep, Sensitivities; Mild – Muscle/Joint Pain; Not a problem – OI
Most severe activity level: Could be active 30 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 30 hour a week
Mold Avoidance: Made a big effort, health improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Fairly good
Mold Exposure: Somewhat clear
HH Member #1: 1950’s; Generally healthy; Moderately severe acute illness with lung issues
HH Member #2: 2000’s; Celiac; Moderately severe acute illness with lung issues
HH Member #3: 1990’s; Allergies; Moderately severe acute illness with lung issues
Critically Important: Reduce stress; Rest; Spend time outdoors in good locations; Stay out of moldy buildings; Sun exposure
Very Helpful: Vitamin D; Melatonin; Electrolyte beverage; Azithromycin; Other antibiotic drugs; Acetaminophen; Non-prescription cough syrup; Ibuprofen; Stay warm; Hot/warm baths
Somewhat Helpful: Vitamin C; Vitamin E; Quercetin; Zinc; CBD; Marijuana; Colloidal silver; Medicinal mushrooms; Probiotics; MCT or coconut oil; Ginger; Antifungal drugs; Prescription cough syrup; Gargling; Rinsing sinuses
No Effect: Iodine
Don’t know: Selenium; Berberines; Echinacea; Elderberry; Garlic essential oil; Oregano oil; Garlic pills; Monolaurin; Garlic; Onions; Antiviral drugs; Cortisol or cortisone; Cough drops
Amanda
Patient Number: 32
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 33
Time Since Onset: 63 days
Onset Location: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Prior Locations: Chicago, IL; Northwest Indiana; O’Hare Airport
Chronic Illness History: None
Mold Avoidance: No
Onset Date: 1/30/20
Lung Date: 2/2/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 3 days
Lung Severity: Mild problem
High Fever: 100-101F (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Mostly bedridden
Relapse: I got somewhat better but had a substantial relapse.
Duration: Severe – 2 days; Moderate – 2 days; Mild – 4 days
Initial Symptom: Scratchy throat; Headache; Fatigue; Cough
Moderate Symptoms: Wet cough; Headache; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Pain when moving body parts; Sneezing; Tiredness; sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Sore/painful throat; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Elevated temperature; Joint pain; Runny/stuffy nose; Weakness
Not An Issue: Difficulty breathing; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Not seen (doubt that would be able to help)
Decade Born: 1960’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One every couple of years
Blood Pressure: Normal (taking medication to lower)
Chronic Conditions: Hypertension
Worst Neurological: None
ME/CFS: Not A Problem – All
Most severe activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: No
Morgan
Patient Number: 33
Current Condition: I feel basically recovered from the acute viral illness, but other chronic illness issues are worse than before. (Asthma)
Time Since Onset: 64 days
Severity Score: 42
Onset Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Chronic Illness History: Mild
Mold Avoidance: No
Onset Date: 1/30/20
Lung Date: 2/1/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 2 days
Lung Severity: Moderate
High Fever: 100-101F (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Mostly bedridden
Relapse: Experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Moderate – 3 days; Mild – 7-10 days
Initial Symptom: Extreme fatigue; Body aches; Fever; Chills; Runny nose; Headache; Difficulty getting deep breath; Asthma
Severe Symptoms: Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Headache; Loss of appetite; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Pain when moving body parts; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing; Weakness
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Dehydration; Nausea; Loss of smell; Loss of taste
Not An Issue: Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Abdominal pain; Blue lips/face; Bone pain; Joint pain
Additional Symptoms: Previously managed asthma increased from 1 to 8 daily doses of Symbicort turbuhaler
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, more severe, harder to get over
Practitioner: Saw practitioner (just told was a viral infection)
Decade Born: 1990’s
Gender: Female
Living: Apartment
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Flu Shot: Definitely received
Blood Pressure: Normal (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: Asthma, IBS
Worst Neurological: Not experienced
ME/CFS: Mild problem – Headaches; Not A Problem – PEM, Cognitive, OI, Muscle/Joint Pain, Unrefreshing sleep; Sensitivities
Most severe activity level: Could be active 40 hours per week
Recent activity level: Could be active 40 hours per week
Mold Avoidance: Not pursued
HH Member #1: 1990’s; No chronic illness; Acute illness without lung issues
Somewhat Helpful: Electrolyte beverage; Acetaminophen; Ibuprofen; Bathe and change clothes frequently
No Effect: Cough drops; Non-prescription cough syrup; Reduce stress; Rest; Spend time outdoors in good locations; Stay warm
Don’t know: Alcohol, Citrus fruits
Additional Comments: I have been sick before, however I have never felt this ill and weak in my life, where breathing laying down in bed was exhausting.
Caroline
Patient Number: 35
Current Condition: I feel mostly recovered
Severity Score: 42
Time Since Onset: 55 days
Onset Location: Canton Vaud (near Lake Geneva), Switzerland
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 2/2/20
Lung Date: 2/4/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 2 days
Lung Severity: Moderate problem
High Fever: 102-103F (usually low)
Bedridden During Illness: Not really bedridden but slept a great deal
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse. (Almost totally recovered, then fatigue and cough returned.)
Initial Symptom: General fatigue; Sore throat; Fever; Chest tightness
Severe Symptoms: Dry cough; Muscle aches; Joint pain
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Headache; Sore/painful throat; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Bone pain; Pain when moving body parts; Tiredness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Sore voice; Diarrhea; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Weakness
Not An Issue: Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Difficulties swallowing; Dehydration; Vomiting; Loss of smell; Blue lips or face; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing; Sleepiness
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, more severe, harder to get over
Practitioner: None (Don’t have practitioner nearby; Concerned about infections; Concerned about mold/chemicals; Avoid healthcare practitioners in general)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: Apartment
Previous Colds/Flus: Once every couple years
Blood Pressure: Normal (no medication)
Chronic Conditions: Chronic/Post Lyme, Food sensitivities, ME/CFS, MCAS, MCS, Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Moderate
ME/CFS: Very Severe – Headaches; Severe – PEM, Unrefreshing sleep, Sensitivities; Moderate- Cognitive; Mild – OI, Muscle/joint pain
Most severe activity level: Rarely could go out, not bedridden
Recent activity level: Could be active 60+ hours per week
Mold Avoidance: Made a big effort, health improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Very good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
HH Member #1: 1970’s; No chronic issues; moderately severe acute illness with lung problems.
HH Member #2: 2000’s; CIRS, PANS; moderately severe acute illness with lung problems.
HH Member #3: 2010’s; CIRS, PANS; moderate acute illness with lung problems.
Nicole
Patient Number: 41
Current Condition: I feel a little better but not recovered
Severity Score: 58
Time Since Onset: 42 days
Onset Location: Denver, CO
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 2/8/20
Lung Date: 3/7/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 27 days
Lung Severity: Moderate problem
High Fever: Severe Elevated Temperature (Fever)
Bedridden During Illness: Almost totally bedridden
Relapse: Felt like basically recovered but then had relapse
Duration: Very severe – 4; Severe – 5; Moderate – 1; Mild – 0
Initial Symptom: Cough and sore throat
Very Severe Symptoms: Headache; Feverish feelings; Generally feeling terrible
Severe Symptoms: Dry cough; Bronchitis; Elevated temperature; Tiredness
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Wet cough; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Feelings of nausea; Loss of appetite; Chills; Muscle aches; Runny/stuffy nose; Weakness; Sleepiness
Mild Symptoms: Shortness of breath; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Loss of taste; Bone pain; Pain when moving body parts; Sneezing
Not An Issue: Pneumonia; Vomiting; Loss of smell; Abdominal pain; Blue lips/face; Joint pain
Additional Symptoms: To the headache question, about day 7 I developed a migraine very quickly (less than 1-hour onset) and I’ve had this severe migraine for three days now
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Seen practitioner
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: Townhouse
Previous Colds/Flus: Rarely or never
Blood Pressure: Low BP
Chronic Conditions: ADD/ADHD; Autoimmune; Chronic Lyme; Food sensitivities; IBS; ME/CFS; MCAS; Toxic Mold illness
Worst Neurological: Moderate
ME/CFS: Very Severe – PEM, Cognitive, Sensitivities; Severe – Headaches, Muscle/Joint, Unrefreshing Sleep; Mild – OI
Most severe activity level: 30 hours
Recent activity level: 40 hours
Mold Avoidance: Big effort, improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Extremely good
Mold Exposure: Somewhat clear
Critically Important: Zinc; Elderberry; Stay out of moldy buildings
Very Helpful: Vitamin C (5000 mg); Vitamin D; Echinacea; Garlic pills; Melatonin (3 mg); Monolaurin; Probiotics; Transfer factor; Antifungal drugs (fluconazole); Antiviral drugs (Acyclovir); Cough drops; Cough syrup (non-prescription); Rest; Spend time outdoors in good locations; Sun exposure; Take warm/hot baths; Olive leaf
Somewhat Helpful: Garlic essential oil; Medicinal mushrooms; Citrus fruits; Electrolyte beverage; Azithromycin; Acetaminophen; Aspirin; Stay warm
Don’t know: Vitamin A; Vitamin E; Iodine; Quercetin; Berberines; CBD; Curcumin; Other Essential Oils; Marijuana; Colloidal silver; Alcohol; MCT or coconut oil; Garlic; Ginger; Hot peppers; Onions; Raw honey; Bathe and change clothes frequently
Other helpful treatments: Andographis
Brooke
Patient Number: 98
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 53
Time Since Onset: 61 days
Onset Location: Southern Virginia
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Onset Date: 2/8/20
Lung Date: 2/8/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Moderate
High Fever: 101-102 F (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Almost totally bedridden
Relapse: I have experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Moderate – 14 days; Mild – 6 days
Initial Symptom: It was sudden onset with low-grade fever. Deep, dry cough out of nowhere; Trouble catching breath or breathing deeply; Deep chest pain near lungs.
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Headache; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Runny/stuffy nose; Weakness; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Wet cough; Abdominal pain; Sneezing
Not An Issue: Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Blue lips or face;
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Not discussed (Illness has not been severe enough)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Flu Shot: Definitely did not receive
Blood Pressure: Low (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: Autoimmune; Chronic/Post Lyme; Diabetes; Food sensitivities; IBD; MCAS; Toxic Mold Illness. Currently pregnant.
Worst Neurological: Moderate.
ME/CFS: Very Severe – Sensitivities; Severe – Cognitive, Headaches; Muscle/Joint Pain; Unrefreshing Sleep; Moderate – PEM, OI
Phoebe
Patient Number: 44
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered.
Severity: 31
Time Since Onset: 28 days
Onset Location: Norwich, Norfolk, England.
Chronic Illness History: None
Onset Date: 2/10/20
Lung Date: 2/11/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 1 day
Lung Severity: Moderate
Duration: Severe – 1 day; Moderate – 5 days
High Fever: 103-104 (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Not bedridden
Relapse: I experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Initial Symptom: Very high temperature; Breathlessness; Cough
Severe Symptoms: Dry cough, Elevated temperature, Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Headache, Sore/painful throat, Feverish feelings, Chills, Muscle aches, Weakness, Tiredness
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing, Shortness of breath, Lung/chest pain, Lung/chest pressure, Abdominal pain, Joint pain, Pain when moving body parts, Sneezing
Not An Issue: Wet cough, Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Difficulties swallowing, Sore voice, Dehydration, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Loss of smell, Loss of taste, Blue lips or faces, Bone pain, Runny/stuffy nose, Sleepiness
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): More severe
Practitioner: Not seen (Doubt would be able to help)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: Rarely or never
Blood Pressure: Normal (no medication)
Chronic Conditions: None of the above
Worst Neurological: None of these symptoms
Tammy
Patient Number: 45
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered.
Severity Score: 43
Time Since Onset: 40 days
Onset Location: Seacoast, NH
Chronic Illness: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: No
Onset Date: 2/11/20
Lung Date: 2/13/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 2 days
Lung Severity: Mild Problem
Bedridden During Illness: Mostly bedridden
High Fever: 102-103 (usually normal)
Relapse: Experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Moderate – 12 days; Mild – 2 days
Initial Symptom: Sore throat; Fatigue; Fever
Moderate Symptoms: Dry cough; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Difficulties talking (sore voice); Diarrhea; Loss of smell; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Runny/stuffy nose; Weakness; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Wet cough; Headache; Dehydration; Loss of appetite; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Sneezing
Not An Issue: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Vomiting; Feelings of nausea; Blue lips or face
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Harder to get over
Practitioner: Not Seen (Doubt would be able to help)
Decade Born: 1960’s
Gender: Female
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Blood Pressure: Normal (not on medication)
Chronic Conditions: Chronic/Post Lyme; Fibromyalgia; IBD; Toxic Mold Illness; Crohn’s
Worst Neurological: Moderately severe
ME/CFS: Severe – PEM, Cognitive, Muscle/Joint Pain, Sensitivities; Mild – OI; Not Problem – Headaches, Sensitivities
Most severe activity level: Could be active 10 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 50 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Not pursued
HH Member #1: 1960’s; High blood pressure; Moderate acute illness with lung symptoms
Jolene
Patient Number: 101
Current Condition: I feel mostly recovered.
Severity Score: 39
Time Since Onset: 56 days
Onset Location: Bethel, CT
Chronic Illness History: Mild
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 2/14/20
Lung Date: 2/19/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 5 days
Lung Severity: Mild
High Fever: 100-101F (usually low)
Bedridden During Illness: Not really bedridden but slept a great deal.
Relapse: I’m not sure
Duration: Moderate – 5 days; Mild – 8 days
Initial Symptom: Sore throat; Swollen glands
Moderate Symptoms: Dry cough; Headache; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Diarrhea; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Abdominal pain; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing; Weakness; Tiredness
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Dehydration; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Not An Issue: Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Vomiting; Blue lips or face; Bone pain
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Not discussed (Illness has not been severe enough)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: Several per year
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: Normal (not taking medicine)
Chronic Conditions: Autoimmune; IBS; Hashimoto’s
Worst Neurological: Mild
ME/CFS: Moderate – PEM; Mild – OI, Headaches, Muscle/Joint Pain; Unrefreshing Sleep; Sensitivities
Most severe activity level: Could be active 20 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 20 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made a big effort, health improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Very good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
Additional Comments: Prior to my illness my friend had a strange illness end of January like a virus. She was given steroids and a Z pack and an antibiotic twice during her illness. She had two bouts of a type of red swollen eyes like very bad allergy or pink eye. They have issues with mold in their home and we were visiting a few times when my friend had mild eye issues. She was not tested for the flu. I read about the red eyes and it made me think about my friend and what she went through.
Beth
Patient Number: 50
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 47
Time Since Onset: 42 days
Onset Location: Denver, CO
Prior Locations: Palm Springs, CA
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 2/20/20
Lung Date: 2/20/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Moderate
High Fever: 101-102 (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Almost totally bedridden
Relapse: I have experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Severe – 5 days; Moderate – 14 days; Mild – 28 days
Initial Symptom: Dry Cough; Fatigue; Fever
Severe Symptoms: Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Runny/stuffy nose
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Headache; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Weakness; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Dehydration; Sneezing
Not An Issue Symptoms: Headache; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Bone pain
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Not seen (Illness not severe enough; Doubt would be able to help)
Decade Born: 1960’s
Gender: Female
Living: Apartment; Hotel
Previous Colds/Flus: Rarely or never
Flu Shot: Definitely received
Blood Pressure: High (taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: Toxic Mold Illness; Sleep Apnea
Worst Neurological: Very severe
ME/CFS: Very Severe – Cognitive, Sensitivities; Severe – Muscle or Joint Pain; Moderate – OI, Unrefreshing Sleep; Not A Problem – Headaches
Most severe activity level: Could be active for 10 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active for 50 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, health improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Not that great
Mold Exposure: Very clear
Very Helpful: Rinsing sinuses (X Clear)
Somewhat Helpful: Rest
Don’t know: Vitamin C (4 grams); Vitamin D; Quercetin; Zinc (Pure Encapsulation); CBD; Curcumin; Echinacea; Elderberry; Colloidal silver (with EDTA, a few sniffs a day); Citrus fruits; Ginger; Cough drops; Ibuprofen; Vicks VapoRub; Bathe and change clothes frequently; Reduce stress; Stay out of moldy buildings; Stay warm
Ashley
Patient Number: 53
Current Condition: I feel mostly recovered
Severity Score: 27
Time Since Onset: 40 days
Onset Location: Reston, VA
Prior Locations: Washington, DC; Harrisonburg, VA
Chronic Illness History: None (Psychiatric)
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 2/24/20
Lung Date: 3/16/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 20 days
Lung Severity: Moderate problem
High Fever: 100-101F (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Not really bedridden but slept a great deal
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse
Duration: Moderate – 10 days; Mild – 30 days
Initial Symptom: Scratchy Throat; Headache; Fatigue; Drainage; Feverish
Moderate Symptoms: Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Feverish feelings; Tiredness; Sleepiness
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Lung/chest pain; Dry cough; Headache; Sore/painful throat; Sore voice; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Elevated temperature; Muscle aches; Pain when moving body parts; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing; Weakness; Generally feeling terrible
Not An Issue: Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pressure; Difficulties swallowing; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Chills; Bone pain; Joint pain
Additional Symptoms: Coughing to the extent that it was difficult to catch my breath once I started wheezing
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Harder to get over
Practitioner: Saw practitioner – diagnosed pneumonia. Said that there was a small chance that it could be coronavirus, but that I didn’t meet criteria for testing, so just to keep my distance from people as I already had been doing and wear a mask when I went to the store.
Decade Born: 1980’s
Gender: Female
Living: House, Townhouse
Previous Colds/Flus: Several per year
Flu Shot: Definitely received
Blood Pressure: Normal (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: ADHD, Psychiatric (Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, OCD)
Worst Neurological: Not experienced
ME/CFS: Not A Problem – All symptoms
Most severe activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made some effort, not sure if has helped health
Mold Avoidance Skill: Not that great
Mold Exposure: Very clear
HH Member #1: 1980’s; Cerebral palsy; No acute illness
HH Member #2: 2010’s; No chronic conditions; Mild acute illness with lung symptoms
Relapse: First it was more like a cold. Then it got somewhat better, but eventually developed into what the doctor labeled pneumonia – with major fatigue setting in and coughing to the point of exhaustion – the second/relapse experience was what finally took me to the doctor – twice.
Jill
Patient Number: 57
Current Condition: I feel a little better but not recovered.
Severity Score: 54
Time Since Onset: 28 days
Onset Location: London, England
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Somewhat
Onset Date: 3/2/20
Lung Date: 3/7/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 5 days
Lung Severity: Moderate problem
High Fever: Moderately problematic elevated temperature
Bedridden During Illness: Mostly bedridden
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse. (I begin to feel better, then if I get up and do something, I start to feel unwell. Usually starts with feeling cold in my chest and back, and then I feel generally unwell and breathless again until I’ve slept and rested for another day or two.)
Duration: Moderate illness – 5 days
Initial Symptom: Mucus-like post nasal drip but no runny nose. Headache, Sore tummy, Chest cough, Sore Chest, Fatigue
Severe Symptoms: Difficulty breathing, Shortness of breath, Lung/chest pain, Lung/chest pressure, Loss of smell, Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Wet cough, Bronchitis, Dehydration, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Abdominal pain, Elevated temperature, Feverish feelings, Chills, Muscle aches, Joint pain, Pain when moving body parts, Tiredness, Sleepiness
Mild Symptoms: Dry cough, Headache, Sore/painful throat, Difficulty swallowing, Sore voice, Diarrhea, Loss of taste, Weakness
Not An Issue: Pneumonia, Vomiting, Blue lips/face, Bone pain, Runny/stuffy nose, Weakness
Additional Symptoms: Right chest, sore chest, breathlessness. Sore back and lungs, post nasal drip to start with. Phlegm after cough became deeper in the chest, sore tummy, nausea, brain fog, fatigue, breathlessness when walking.
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, more severe, harder to get over
Practitioner: Discussed. Treated a chest infection with post-viral asthma issues. My GP thinks it’s possible I have had COVID but cannot test unless I’m hospitalized.
Decade Born: 1960’s
Gender: Female
Living: Townhouse
Previous Colds/Flus: Once every couple of years
Blood Pressure: Normal (no medication)
Chronic Conditions: Asthma, Food sensitivities, IBD, MCS, Pneumonia
Worst Neurological: Moderate
ME/CFS: Very severe – Sensitivities; Moderate – Cognitive; Mild – PEM, Muscle/Joint Pain, Unrefreshing Sleep; Not a Problem – OI, Headaches
Most severe activity level: Could be active 10 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 20 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, stayed about same
Mold Avoidance Skill: Not able to do that at all.
Mold Exposure: Not sure.
Medical treatment: Amoxicillin, 2 course with a three day break. Prednisolone 5mg x 6 for 10 days, Ventolin 4 puffs every 4 hours, Fostair 2 puffs twice a day, second course of 5m prednisolone x6 for 5 days
Critically Important: Bathe and change clothes frequently, Reduce stress, Rest, Stay warm
Very Helpful: Vitamin C (1000-3000 mg), Vitamin D, Vitamin E, CBD, Acetaminophen, Gargling (colloidal silver, salt, water), Rinsing sinuses (colloidal silver, salt, water)
Somewhat Helpful: Colloidal silver, Probiotics, MCT or coconut oil, Ginger, Raw honey, Antibiotic drugs (Amoxicillin), Cortisol or cortisone
Harmful: Zinc, Oregano oil, Other essential oils (can’t use due to MCS), Alcohol, Citrus fruits, Aspirin, Vicks VapoRub, Ozone therapy
Don’t know: Vitamin A, Spend time outdoors in good locations, Stay out of moldy buildings, Sun exposure, Rife
Additional Helpful: Ventolin inhaler with spacer
Treatment Comments: The most helpful to reduce breathlessness and tight chest, which also relieved sore back and lungs was Fostair inhaler. 2 puffs twice a day with spacer. After a few days of recovery I have also had to do another 5 day course of 5mg prednisolone to reduce inflammation which is a risk.
Additional Comments: Very quickly began to cause breathing difficulties worse than I’ve had before with a chesty cold. Was difficult to manage. However, laying my back and shoulders on a hot water bottle helped reduce the breathing issues. Fostair, paracetamol, Ventolin and cetirizine were helpful to manage breathing and chest difficulties. While unwell I was not able to use CBD oil as it made me feel unwell.
Nancy
Patient Number: 58
Current Condition: I feel somewhat recovered.
Severity Score: 43
Time Since Onset: 24 days
Onset Location: Shuswap Area, British Columbia, Canada
Prior Locations: Salmon Arm and Sorrento, British Columbia, Canada
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 3/2/20
Lung Date: 3/8/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 6 days
Lung Severity: Moderate problem
High Fever: 102-103 (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Almost totally bedridden
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse. (I had fever, headache and body aches for three days. The fourth day felt like the illness had subsided. Day four had fever, headache and body aches back and slowly recovered from that point.)
Duration: Severe – 6 days; Moderate – 5 days; Mild – 7 days
Initial Symptom: Fever; Headache; Body aches
Severe Symptoms: Loss of appetite; Weakness; Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Dry cough; Headache; Sore/painful throat; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Pain while moving body parts; Tiredness
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Bronchitis; Difficulties swallowing; Dehydration; Abdominal pain; Bone pain; Joint pain; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing
Not An Issue: Pneumonia; Wet cough; Sore voice; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Blue lips or face
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, harder to get over
Practitioner: Not seen (Illness has not been severe enough; Doubt would be able to help)
Decade Born: 1950’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One every several years
Blood Pressure: Normal (no medication)
Chronic Conditions: Food sensitivities; ME/CFS, Hypothyroidism
Worst Neurological: Not experienced
ME/CFS: Severe – PEM, Sensitivities; Mild – Cognitive, Unrefreshing sleep; Not a problem – OI, Headaches, Muscle/joint pain
Most severe activity level: Rarely could go out but not bedridden
Recent activity level: Could be active 20 hours per week
Mold Avoidance: Made a big effort, health stayed about the same
Mold Avoidance Skill: Very good
Mold Exposure: Very clear
HH Member #1: 1950’s; No health conditions; Moderately severe acute illness with lung issues
Very Helpful: Acetaminophen, Rest
Somewhat Helpful: Vicks VapoRub, Bathe and change clothes frequently, Stay warm, Warm/hot baths,
No Effect: Colloidal silver, MCT or coconut oil, Garlic, Ginger, Onions, Coffee enemas, Gargling (colloidal silver, salt), Rinsing sinuses
Don’t know: Vitamin D, Iodine, Selenium, Reduce stress, Stay out of moldy buildings
Sarah
Patient Number: 64
Current Condition: I feel recovered from acute viral symptoms, but have leftover symptoms like chronic cough and body/back pain and still quite fatigued.
Severity Score: 39
Time Since Onset: 30 days
Onset Location: Clarksville, TN
Prior Locations: Franklin, TN
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 3/4/20
Lung Date: 3/4/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Moderate problem
High Fever: Moderately problematic elevated temperature
Bedridden: Not really bedridden but slept a great deal
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse.
Duration: Moderate – 25 days; Mild – 5 days
Initial Symptom: Dry cough; Headache; Fatigue; Runny nose
Severe Symptoms: Tiredness; Generally feeling terrible;
Moderate Symptoms: Shortness of breath; Dry cough; Headache; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Diarrhea; Abdominal pain; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Runny/stuffy nose; Sleepiness
Mild Symptoms: Lung/chest pressure; Sore voice; Dehydration; Nausea; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills;
Not An Issue: Difficulty breathing; Lung/chest pain; Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Vomiting; Loss of appetite; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Blue lips or face; Sneezing; Weakness
Additional Symptoms: Middle and upper back pain; Swollen glands; Sore throat like sandpapery and sand stuck in it.
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, harder to get over
Practitioner: Not seen (Concerned about infections, Not severe enough, Doubt would be able to help)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: Normal (no medication)
Chronic Conditions: Chronic/Post Lyme; Fibromyalgia; Food sensitivities; ME/CFS; MCS; POTS; Toxic Mold Illness; Hypothyroidism; Insomnia; Adrenal Insufficiency
Worst Neurological: Moderate
ME/CFS: Very Severe – Unrefreshing sleep; Severe – PEM, OI, Headaches, Muscle/Joint Pain; Sensitivities
Most severe activity level: Rarely could go out but not bedridden
Recent activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, health improved somewhat
Mold Avoidance Skill: Fairly good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
HH Member #1: 1970’s; No chronic health conditions; Moderately severe acute illness with lung symptoms
Critically Important: Quercetin, Electrolyte beverage, Rest, Stay out of moldy buildings
Very Helpful: Raw honey, Bathe and change clothes frequently, Reduce stress, Stay warm
Somewhat Helpful: Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Selenium, Medicinal mushrooms, Monolaurin, MCT or coconut oil, Aspirin, Cough drops, Cough syrup, Gargling (sea salt, iodine), Rinsing sinuses (Xylitol, sea salt, iodine)
No Effect: Elderberry
Illness Onset: My husband traveled to western NC the week before, and he became sick when he got home. I then got sick with the same thing. He was in close contact with someone from Israel while traveling.
Details: My husband traveled out of state and came down with this virus the day after he returned home. He was in close contact with people from NC, GA and TN during this trip as well as someone that traveled here from Israel. My husband VERY rarely gets sick and is a very healthy person. This thing took him down for a little over 2 weeks and the coughing remained for about 4 weeks. In twenty years I have never seen him this sick. He was actually a lot more sick than me, which I found really surprising. I did a ton of natural remedies and supplements and other things, which he did not do. Also I think I am more able to cope with being sick, but still his symptoms were worse than mine–his cough and sore throat were quite severe. Based on symptoms alone, I would guess that he had COVID-19.
Brian
Patient Number: 70
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 30
Time Since Onset: 21 days
Onset Location: Central Ohio
Prior Locations: Northwest Indiana
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 3/9/20
Lung Date: 3/9/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Very mild
High Fever: Moderately problematic elevated fever
Bedridden During Illness: Not bedridden but slept a great deal
Relapse: Experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Moderate – 2 days; Mild – 5 days
Initial Symptom: Lethargy, Lack of appetite, Vomited once, Felt “off,” Pain in torso and right side; Night sweats; Morning fever.
Severe Symptoms: Loss of appetite
Moderate Symptoms: Headache, Nausea, Abdominal pain, Elevated temperature, Feverish feelings, Chills, Muscle aches, Runny/stuffy nose, Weakness, Tiredness, Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Dry cough, Sore/painful throat, Dehydration, Diarrhea, Vomiting
Not An Issue: Difficulty breathing, Shortness of breath, Lung/chest pain, Lung/chest pressure, Dry cough, Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Difficulties swallowing, Sore voice, Loss of smell, Loss of taste, Blue lips or face
Additional Symptoms: Pain in right side slightly lower than my armpit. Night sweats. No appetite which gradually got better over the course of 3-5 days.
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Not discussed (Illness not severe enough, Doubt would be able to help, Trusted my instinct and home remedies)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Male
Living: Apartment
Previous Colds/Flus: One every couple of years
Blood Pressure: Normal (no medication)
Chronic Conditions: Autoimmune, Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Moderately severe
ME/CFS: Severe – Unrefreshing Sleep; Moderate – PEM, Cognitive; Mild – Headaches, Muscle/Joint Pain, Sensitivities; Not a Problem – Cognitive
Most severe activity level: Could be active 20 hours per week
Recent activity level: Could be active 50 hours per week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, health improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Very good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
HH Member #1: 1940’s; breast cancer survivor, smoker; moderately severe illness with lung symptoms
Critically Important: Curcumin; Alcohol; Citrus; Electrolyte beverage; Reduce Stress; Rest; Stay out of moldy buildings; Sun exposure; Warm/hot baths
Very Helpful: Vitamin C; Vitamin D; Zinc; Elderberry; Other essential oils; Garlic; Ginger; Hot peppers; onions; Raw honey; Vicks VapoRub; Spend time outdoors in good locations; Stay warm
Somewhat Helpful: Medicinal mushrooms; Bathe and change clothes frequently; Rinsing sinuses (saline)
Patient History: My family member had dental work in December and had a fungal infection in January about 10 days after the dental work. This cleared with an anti-fungal prescription but she still did not feel great. She caught something in early February and went to Urgent Care because she started coughing severely. She tested positive for the flu. However the symptoms were like no flu she has ever had. Her spirometer was 93%. Her chest x-ray was clear. She was prescribed Xofluza and Doxycycline. The MD made a decision to give her both an anti-viral and an anti-bacterial and I find that really interesting. The worst symptoms cleared up within a few days but the post-viral cough lasted a month and it was a constant cough. During the rest of February, she began slowly feeling stronger and increasing her activity level. In early March when I visited her again, she was still coughing. I think the cough was contagious. We thought it was just post-viral cough from the flu, but now I think it was COVID. I think she had both viruses. I felt sick the day after I got home from visiting her but my symptoms were fairly mild and were mainly low-grade fever, night sweats, and tiredness. The unusual symptom was pain in my right side of my torso. Within about 1 week of that date, both of us were feeling better. Please note that was about when the weather shifted and got more into a typical spring like weather pattern. We were both able to get outside for fresh air much more around mid-March. We were both feeling better by the time the COVID public health alerts were starting to be announced in our states.
Other Comments: This is only my opinion but I think there is something to the idea that co-infection is a major factor in this illness. Whether it is a fungal co-infection, or a bacterial co-infection, the symptoms seem to clear up best when we address the whole picture and address the full bacterial or viral load. I think plant-based herbals might be some of the best solutions because they address the whole microbe.
Janet
Patient Number: 110
Covid-19 Test: Negative
Current Condition: I feel a little better but not recovered
Severity Score: 56
Time Since Onset: 37 days
Onset Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Prior Locations: Brampton and Orangeville, Ontario
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 3/10/20
Lung Severity: Very mild
Duration: Severe – 7-10 days; Moderate – ongoing
High Fever: 101-102F (usually high)
Bedridden During Illness: Almost totally bedridden
Relapse: I’m not sure
Initial Symptom: Fever; Sore throat; Tight or restricted throat feeling; Body aches; Severe headaches; Nausea; Blurry vision; Hallucinations; Lower back pain; Extreme weakness; Dizziness; Diarrhea
Severe Symptoms: Headache; Loss of appetite; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Weakness; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feel terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Sore/painful throat; Difficulty swallowing; Sore voice; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Elevated temperature
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Dry cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Nausea; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Sneezing
Not An Issue: Shortness of breath, Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Vomiting; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Runny/stuffy nose
Additional Symptoms: Extended time after onset
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, more severe, harder to get over
Practitioner: I saw a practitioner
Decade Born: 1950’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One every several years
Flu Shot: Definitely received
Blood Pressure: Normal (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: Chronic/Post Lyme; Fibromyalgia; IBS; ME/CFS; Colitis
Worst Neurological: Moderately severe
ME/CFS: Severe – Cognitive, Muscle/Joint Pain, Unrefreshing Sleep; Moderate – PEM, OI; Mild – Headaches, Sensitivities
Most severe activity level: Rarely could go out but not bedridden
Recent activity level: Rarely could go out but not bedridden
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, not sure if improved
Mold Avoidance Skill: Very good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
Very Helpful: Vitamin C; Vitamin D; Vitamin E; CBD; Probiotics;
Somewhat Helpful: Vitamin A; Marijuana; Oregano oil; Melatonin; Citrus fruits; Electrolyte beverage; Garlic; Azithromycin; Cortisol/cortisone; Acetaminophen; Aspirin; Cough drops; Ibuprofen
No Effect: Iodine; Selenium; Zinc; Berberines; Curcumin; Echinacea; Garlic pills; Colloidal silver; MCT or coconut oil
Harmful: Essential oils; Alcohol; Other antibiotic drugs
Don’t know: Transfer factor; Ginger; Hot peppers; Onions; Raw honey; Antiviral drugs
Medical treatment comments: Was tested for Covid -19 in hospital – ran several other tests & x- rays. Chest x-rays clear! Given 2 bags of iv and meds for headache. Sent home told to quarantine until symptom free, also to keep hydrated, to return should my fever continue to rise or get worse . Had several conversations with my GP via phone regarding my recovery. The test results was negative, which I’m pleased with. However, I am still fighting in recovery mode … very slow progress but I do have underlying health issues that would make recovery longer . So the result is that I had a bad case of flu ?? With all that said …. whatever I have is still currently with me and that is concerning to me. I am still self-isolating myself and will continue to do so until completely symptom-free. What concerns me is that I have heard of cases coming back false then later positive …. since testing I’ve developed some shortness of breath while walking in house but not to the point to be concerned enough to return to hospital !!!!! My decision not to return is 1 – I see some improvement although this new onset of shortness of breathe. The health system is overrun / taxed at the moment. If it were any other time I would be back at my Dr’s to follow up as I’m not improving as quickly as I think I should , but for now I am stable.
Marcia
Patient Number: 77
Current Condition: I remain diligent and feel like it is lurking and looking for an opportunity to come back like gang busters.
Severity Score: 38
Time Since Onset: 23 days
Onset Location: Suffolk County, NY
Prior Locations: StonyBrook/Farmington/Centereach, Hauppauge, Manorvile, NY
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 3/12/20
Lung Date: 3/12/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Moderate
High Fever: 100-101F (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Not really bedridden but slept a great deal.
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse
Duration: Moderate – 6 days
Initial Symptom: Fatigue; Temperature fluctuations; Inability to get warm; Spike in temperature; Onset in lung, like golf ball
Very Severe Symptoms: Chills
Severe Symptoms: Lung/chest pressure, Tiredness, Sleepiness
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing, Shortness of breath, Lung/chest pain, Wet cough; Diarrhea, Elevated temperature, Feverish feelings, Muscle aches, Runny/stuffy nose, Weakness, Generally feeling terrible
Mild Symptoms: Headache; Sore/painful throat, Joint pain, Pain when moving body parts
Not An Issue: Dry cough, Pneumonia, Bronchitis; Difficulties swallowing, Sore voice, Dehydration, Vomiting, Nausea, Loss of appetite, Loss of smell, Loss of taste, Abdominal pain, Bone pain, Sneezing
Additional Symptoms: My extremities became incredibly cold. Unable to warm-up, wearing multi layers of socks, sweaters, hats with my heat up.
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Decade Born: 1960’s
Gender: Female
Living: Condominium
Previous Colds/Flus: Rarely or never
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: Normal (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: ADD/ADHD, Asthma, Food sensitivities, MCS, Toxic mold illness, Spondolytic spondylolisthesis
Worst Neurological: Moderately severe
ME/CFS: Severe – PEM, Cognitive, Muscle/Joint Pain, Sensitivities; Moderate – Unrefreshing Sleep; Not A Problem – OI, Headaches
Most severe activity level: Could be active 20 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 20 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, health improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Extremely good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
Critically Important: Vitamin C (5,000-20,000 mg); Zinc; Aspirin; Bathe and change clothes frequently; Reduce stress; Rest; Spend time outdoors in good locations; Stay out of moldy buildings; Stay warm; Sun exposure; Warm/hot baths; Gargling (Xylitol); Nebulizer (Xylitol, Biocidin, LSF and Epsom salt)
Very Helpful: Vitamin D; Iodine; Elderberry; Melatonin; Cough drops; Non-prescription cough syrup; Coffee enemas
Somewhat Helpful: Marijuana; Probiotics; MCT or coconut oil; Raw honey
Harmful: Alcohol;
Don’t know: Quercetin; Selenium
Additional Treatments: Part of my protocol included blasting my living space with ozone while I was out of the house walking the beach. I call it getting a salt water lung scrub. I do this every day. Any exposures to people in stores etc. I remove my clothes wash them with ammonia, and jump in the shower to remove viral, bacterial or mold matter. Did oil pulling with coconut oil. I mixed biocidin and xylitol to treat chronic ear infection(CIRS) which exacerbated. I really believe the rescue protocol for me was: Aspirin, Vit C, Magnesium, Epsom Salt baths, Biocidin, zinc lozenges, xylitol products garle and lozenges, nebulizing or sitting over boiling water with these things in it….
Additional Treatment Comments: In the acute phase I took 2 epsom salt baths with 5-10 lbs epsom salt(magnesium). Stayed on 2 aspirin per day for 5 days. vitamin c 5000mg, oral magnesium 1-2000mg, xylitol sinuses, breathing in hot steam with peppermint, biocidin, epsom salt, and xylitol. slept, no sugar diet, hi protein and veggies. I remain diligent, because when I wean off this protocol, the chills and temperature dysregulation start coming back.
Additional Comments: Be aware- it waits and lurks and looks for an opportunity to come back stronger. Each time I tapered down to less than 1000mg vit C…..chills, cold extremities and fatigue have been 1st symptoms followed quickly by junky lungs and throat. Shame on the AMA, and CDC for not promoting this type of protocol for people to self quarantine with early symptoms. Catching the symptoms early and going into an immune boosting protocol is what helped me.
More Comments: The night I got really scared and sick with it hitting my lungs(like nothing I ever experienced hitting my lungs and I’m a Moldy) Here is what I did: Hot bath with 5lbs of epsom salt as hot as I could tolerate it. I took 2 aspirin, Increased my vitamin C 5000mg, took 1000mg of magnesium, xylitol nasal spray 4x’s, a respiratory treatment with biocidIn LSF, took pregnenolone drops. When I taper down, I start feeling symptomatic, usually chills come first, fatigue and junky lungs.
Relapse: The illness seems to creep around in the shadows. Every time over the past 3 weeks I have lessened to protocol of supplements, aspirin and a strict no sugar very low carb diet, chills, fatigue, lung junk. I truly believe the protocol I started, has pulled me out from the virus taking a strong hold. Especially the Vitamin C, ASA and Magnesium- ALL are affordable. The Biocidin is excellent as well, much more expensive.
Medical Treatment: I am an RN. Created my own protocol. Holistic health care is my passion. The AMA and CDC are doing a great disservice to our community by condemning naturopathic care. Thousands more will need ER’S and ventilators because NO protocol to boost immune function with early onset of symptoms is being offered. Instead AMA’s is condemning an approach that could flatten the curve and save many lives.
Olivia
Patient Number: 79
Current Condition: I don’t feel any better and the situation feels like it’s getting worse
Severity Score: 53
Time Since Onset: 21 days
Onset Location: Tucson, AZ
Chronic Health History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 3/13/20
Lung Date: 3/24/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 11 days
Lung Severity: Mild problem
High Fever: Moderately severe elevated temperature
Bedridden: Not bedridden
Relapse: I got somewhat better but then had a substantial relapse.
Duration: Mild – 14 days
Initial Symptom: Strange gastrointestinal issues; Bizarre lesion in nose; Chest pain; Shortness of breath; Runny nose; Cough; Dry throat/mouth
Very Severe Symptoms: Generally feeling terrible
Severe Symptoms: Headache; Dehydration; Runny/stuffy nose; Weakness; Tiredness;
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Abdominal pain; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Muscle aches; Pain when moving body parts; Sneezing
Mild Symptoms: Shortness of breath; Loss of taste
Not An Issue: Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Loss of appetite; Loss of smell; Blue lips or face; Chills; Bone pain; Joint pain; Sleepiness
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Harder to get over
Practitioner: Discussed via phone or internet (Said I should rest at home and recover)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: Rarely or never
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: Low (not taking medicine)
Chronic Conditions: ADD/ADHD; ASD; Autoimmune; Fibromyalgia; Food sensitivities; IBS; ME/CFS; MCAS; MCS; Toxic Mold Illness;
Worst Neurological: Moderately severe
ME/CFS: Very Severe – Cognitive; Headaches; Muscle/Joint Pain; Unrefreshing Sleep; Sensitivities; Severe – OI; Moderate – PEM
Most severe activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made some effort, health improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Extremely good
Mold Exposure: Very clear
HH Member #1: 1970’s; No chronic health; Moderately severe acute illness with lung symptoms
Critically Important: Spend time outdoors in good locations; Stay out of moldy buildings; Coffee enemas
Very Helpful: Acetaminophen; Non-prescription cough syrup
Somewhat Helpful: Berberines; Sun exposure
No Effect: Zinc; Elderberry; Citrus fruits; Cough drops; Bathe and change clothes frequently; Take warm/hot baths; Gargling
Harmful: Alcohol
Don’t know: Vitamin C; Echinacea
Tom
Patient Number: 78
COVID-19 Test: Negative
Current Condition: I don’t feel any better but the situation feels like it is stable.
Severity Score: 15
Time Since Onset: 27 days
Onset Location: Highlands Ranch, CO
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Somewhat
Onset Date: 3/13/20
Lung Date: 3/17/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 5 days
Lung Severity: Very mild problem
High Fever: 100-101F (usually normal)
Bedridden: Not bedridden
Relapse: Not sure
Duration: Mild – 21 days
Initial Symptom: Low grade fever of 100.6 or so. Soft, stinky stools; Lower abdominal cramping; Headache
Moderate Symptoms: Headache
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Feelings of lung or chest pressure; Difficulties swallowing; Diarrhea; Abdominal pain; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Runny/stuffy nose; Tiredness; Sleepiness
Not An Issue: Lung/chest pain; Dry cough; Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Sore/painful throat; Sore voice; Dehydration; Vomiting; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Blue lips or face; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Sneezing; Weakness; Generally feeling terrible
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Discussed it with practitioner. (My son has C. diff and has same symptoms. I thought that explained most of my symptoms as well, but C. diff test came back negative. Not sure what to think.)
Decade Born: 1960’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: Several per year
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: Low (not taking medication)
Chronic Conditions: Chronic/Post Lyme; IBS; Toxic Mold Illness; Endometriosis
Worst Neurological: Not experienced
ME/CFS: Severe – PEM; Moderate – Cognitive, OI, Unrefreshing Sleep; Mild – Muscle/Joint Pain, Sensitivities; Not A Problem – Headaches
Most severe activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, health helped somewhat
Mold Avoidance Skill: Not able to do that at all
Mold Exposure: Not clear at all
HH Member #1: 1970’s; No chronic illness; Acute illness without significant lung issues
HH Member #2: 2010’s; ADHD, Mold Illness, IBS: Mild acute illness with lung issues
HH Member #3: 2010’s; ASD, Hashimoto’s, IBD, Autoimmune, PANS, Mold Illness, Lyme; Mild acute illness with lung issues
No Effect: Vitamin C; Vitamin D; Quercetin; Zinc; Berberines; Elderberry; Colloidal silver; Melatonin; Probiotics; Citrus fruits; MCT or coconut oil; Garlic; Spend time outdoors in good locations; Stay warm; Sun exposure
Harmful: Alcohol
Don’t know: Electrolyte beverages; Onions; Raw honey; Stay out of moldy buildings
Brittany
Patient Number: 82
Current Condition: I feel mostly recovered
Severity Score: 58
Time Since Onset: 20 days
Onset Location: Columbus, OH
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 3/14/20
Lung Date: 3/14/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 0 days
Lung Severity: Very mild
High Fever: Moderately problematic elevated temperature
Bedridden During Illness: Almost totally bedridden
Relapse: I have experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Very severe – 5 days; Severe – 3 days; Moderate – 2 days; Mild – 4 days
Initial Symptom: It felt like fever, but with no obvious fever via under-tongue thermometer check, so no proof of any fever. An immediate “Nope” feeling upon being woken up by a work alarm, was basically my body telling me to go back to sleep. My head was very hot to feel, to me, also body felt warmer than usual. It reminded me of when I had Mononucleosis and /or Pneumonia in High School. I felt super fatigued like I felt with Mononucleosis and also marathon slept for 11-16 hours at a time. It also felt like pneumonia because staircases felt much harder to walk up, and every task took so much more effort than usual that I simply wanted to close my eyes. My lungs felt fine (then again – inhalation of medicinal cannabis at this time likely helped a ton for my lungs in particular, and made my symptoms FAR more tolerable). I just felt really fatigued, so it made me feel “short-of-breath” in a pneumonia-type-way.
Very Severe Symptoms: Nausea; Feverish feelings; Weakness; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Pneumonia; Headache; Diarrhea; Abdominal pain; Elevated temperature; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Wet cough; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Dehydration; Vomiting; Loss of appetite; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Chills; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing
Not An Issue: Chest pain; Bronchitis; Blue lips/face;
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms, more severe, harder to get over.
Practitioner: Not discussed (Don’t have primary care provider; Concerned about costs; Doubt would be willing to help; Avoid practitioners in general)
Decade Born: 1980’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Flu Shot: Definitely not.
Chronic Conditions: ADD/ADHD, Fibromyalgia; Food sensitivities; IBS; ME/CFS; MCAS; MCS; Psychiatric (Major depressive disorder, Anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD), Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Very severe
ME/CFS: Very severe – PEM, Cognitive, OI, Headache, Muscle/Joint Pain, Unrefreshing Sleep, Sensitivities
Most severe activity level: Totally bedridden and rarely could participate in conversations
Recent activity level: Could be active 60 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Extremely good
Mold Exposure: Very clear
HH Member #1: 1980’s; No chronic conditions; No acute illness
Critically Important: Marijuana, Citrus fruits, Bathe and change clothes frequently, Reduce stress, Rest, Spend time outdoors in good locations, Stay out of moldy buildings, Sun exposure
Very Helpful: Vitamin D, CBD, Essential oils, Warm/hot baths
Somewhat Helpful: Vitamin C, Selenium, Hot peppers, Onions, Stay warm
Onset: Location in Columbus, Ohio, most likely virus picked up early-to-mid March from working in a retail store, before we implemented curbside-pickups-only. The week I noticed symptoms of feeling really sick/ill, they had just introduced curbside only due to COVID-19, so they didn’t mind letting me stay home to feel better as I showed symptoms while it was a well known issue.
Symptoms: I forgot about the generalized muscle, joint, bone pain I had that was worse than expected, especially the joint pain (my R knee – was never a problem before)!!! I didn’t even think of those symptoms as related to the virus!! I also forgot about the diarrhea and abdominal issues I had. Feverish, horrible feeling, so I just slept it out for about a week, then mostly felt better-ish. I think I may be re-exposed frequently at my retail workplace and these exposures to breathing in the virus – I believe – cause me severe nausea symptoms! I frequently complain now about nausea while I’m at work, often saying “Uh-oh, I’m nauseous again.” I wear a medical mask now at work instead of my usual cloth one as the medical mask helps to prevent the severe nausea better.
Additional Comments: Suspect illness was easier to manage and shorter (so far) than Mononucleosis, but had more abdominal pains, more severe and acute joint pains, similar feverish feeling. Felt like Pneumonia in that all tasks were extremely difficult and fatiguing. Cannabis helped extremely with any lung symptoms or pain, any nerve pain. Sunshine yoga, low food intake, citrus, and marathon sleeping sessions were great methods of dealing with symptoms.
Stacy
Patient Number: 83
Current Condition: I feel better (more energy) but issues are focused on my lungs. I am going through the tightness/cough period.
Severity Score: 26
Onset Location: New York, NY
Time Since Onset: 7 days
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Somewhat
Onset Date: 3/15/20
Lung Date: 3/17/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 2 days
Lung Severity: Mild Problem
High Fever: Moderately Elevated Temperature (Fever)
Bedridden During Illness: Not bedridden
Relapse: Improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Moderate – 2; Mild – 5
Initial Symptom: Headache/pressure in head, feeling of coming down with cold but without runny nose, fatigue, fever, sore throat, weak all over. I work and live in Manhattan; Sunday felt like I was coming down with a cold but Saturday I felt ‘off.’ I put Sunday as first day because it was clear something was starting.
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Sore/painful throat; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Weakness; Tiredness; Sleepiness
Mild Symptoms: Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Headache; Feelings of nausea; Loss of appetite; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Generally feeling terrible
Not An Issue: Lung/chest pain; Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Chills; Runny/stuffy nose; Sneezing
Additional Symptoms: I feel like my esophagus was inflamed for maybe a day. Upper part of back is sore/achey, but I have not been coughing too much. Cough deep in lungs.
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Discussed on phone/Internet. (“Two doctors say that based on my symptoms, I probably have it. My PCP said to get tested but can only do that at a hospital. At the moment, I have mild symptoms and don’t feel the need to leave my apartment.”)
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: Apartment
Previous Colds/Flus: Rarely or never
Blood Pressure: Normal (no medication)
Chronic Conditions: Asthma; Fibromyalgia; Food Sensitivities; ME/CFS; Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Moderately Severe
ME/CFS: Severe – PEM, Cognitive, Unrefreshing Sleep, Sensitivities; Moderate – Muscle/Joint Pain; Mild – OI; Not a problem – Headaches
Most severe activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 60+ hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made some effort (improved somewhat)
Mold Avoidance Skill: Fairly good
Mold Exposure: Mostly clear
Medical treatment: I have been taking several additional supplements. I started these about two weeks before symptoms started because I live in Manhattan and was pretty sure it was going to hit the area hard. I also have very mild asthma (unrelated to mold illness).
Don’t know: Vitamin C (3000 mg); Vitamin D; Iodine; Zinc (Zinc gluconate, 90 mg/day); Curcumin; Elderberry; Colloidal silver (rinsed out mouth and nose); Medicinal mushrooms; Melatonin (usually take this at night but increased dosage); Probiotics; Citrus Fruits; MCT or coconut oil; Garlic; Onions; Bathe and change clothes frequently; Reduce stress; Rest; Stay out of moldy buildings; Stay warm; Rinsing sinuses (Xclear followed by colloidal silver)
Additional Treatments: I am also taking/have taken licorice, cinnamon, cordyceps, hydroxytyrosol, elderberry, and skullcap. Some of these were Buhner’s recommendations. I also took boneset extract, although that started to make me nauseous, so I have stopped that. I am not sure which specific supplement(s) have helped but my symptoms have mostly been mild so maybe at least some are helping. I am also on a strict no sugar diet (fruit is okay) – I eat chocolate with sugar sometimes and have completely stopped that.
Additional Comments: Overall mild symptoms, today is day 7. Was very fatigued early in the illness but feel a bit better now. Main issue is lung isues, which are still mild. My doctor said I will go through shortness of breath and coughing phase and then should get better. Another doctor told me day 7-10 is critical point, so just waiting to get through that and resting.
Lauren
Patient Number: 90
Current Condition: I feel totally recovered
Severity Score: 44
Time Since Onset: 17 days
Onset Location: Triad, NC
Chronic Illness History: Moderate
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 3/17/20
Lung Severity: Very mild problem
High Fever: 100-101F (usually normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Almost totally bedridden
Relapse: I have experienced improvements without substantial relapse
Duration: Severe – 3 days; Moderate – 2 days; Mild – 2 days
Initial Symptom: Fatigue; Fever; Aches; Congestion; Headache
Severe Symptoms: Feverish feelings; Chills; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Runny/stuffy nose; Weakness; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Headache; Sore/painful throat; Elevated temperature; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Sneezing
Mild Symptoms: Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pressure; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Loss of appetite;
Not An Issue: Difficulty breathing; Lung/chest pain; Dry cough; Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Dehydration; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Blue lips/face
Practitioner: Saw practitioner (said flu negative)
Decade Born: 1980’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One or two per year
Flu Shot: Definitely not
Blood Pressure: High (taking medication to lower)
Chronic Conditions: Asthma, Chronic/Post Lyme; POTS; Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Moderately severe
ME/CFS: Very severe – Unrefreshing Sleep; Severe – PEM; OI; Muscle/Joint Pain; Moderate – Cognitive, Sensitivities; Mild – Headaches
Most severe activity level: Could be active 20 hours a week
Recent activity level: Could be active 40 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made some effort, health stayed about the same
Mold Avoidance Skill: Fairly good
Mold Exposure: Very clear
Medical treatment: Tamiflu
Very Helpful: Rest
Somewhat Helpful: Vitamin C; CBD; Echinacea; Elderberry; Garlic essential oil; Oregano oil; Other essential oils; Electrolyte beverage; Acetaminophen; Reduce stress; Spend time outdoors in good locations; Stay out of moldy buildings
No Effect: Vitamin D; Curcumin; Citrus fruits; MCT or coconut oil; Hot peppers; Onions; Azithromycin; Cortisol/cortisone
Harmful: Alcohol; Stay warm; Sun exposure; Take warm/hot baths
Don’t know: Vitamin A; Zinc; Monolaurin; Probiotics; Transfer Factor; Other antibiotic drugs; Antifungal drugs; Antiviral drugs
Debra
Patient Number: 88
Current Condition: I don’t feel any better and the situation seems like it is getting worse.
Severity Score: 26
Time Since Onset: 5 days
Onset Location: Cutter, NM
Prior Locations: Truth or Consequences, NM
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Yes
Onset Date: 3/17/20
Lung Date: 3/21/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 4 days
Lung Severity: Moderate
High Fever: 100-101
Bedridden During Illness: Not bedridden
Relapse: Not yet experienced improvements
Initial Symptom: Elevated temperature; Felt slightly fluish; Chest tightness
Severe Symptoms: Runny/stuffy nose
Moderate Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Wet cough; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Tiredness; Sleepiness
Mild Symptoms: Dehydration; Weakness; Generally feeling terrible
Not An Issue: Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Headache; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Sore voice; Diarrhea; Vomiting; Nausea; Loss of appetite; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Abdominal pain; Blue lips or face; Chills; Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Sneezing
Additional Symptoms: Mainly right lung
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Not seen (Concern about being quarantined; Illness not severe enough; Too much trouble; Too sick to make the effort; Doubt would be able to help)
Decade Born: 1950’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: Rarely or never
Blood Pressure: Normal
Chronic Conditions: Asthma; Autoimmune; IBD; IBS; ME/CFS; MCS; Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Moderately severe
ME/CFS: Very severe – PEM; Severe – Cognitive, Headaches, Muscle/Joint Pain, Unrefreshing Sleep, Sensitivities; Mild – OI
Most severe activity level: Basically bedridden, frequently could read
Recent activity level: Could be active 50 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Made big effort, improved a great deal
Mold Avoidance Skill: Extremely good
Mold Exposure: Very clear
Meadow
Patient Number: 87
Current Condition: In the midst of Suspect Illness.
Severity Score: 46
Time Since Onset: 5 days
Onset Location: Northern Arizona
Prior Locations: Phoenix, Flagstaff
Chronic Illness History: Severe
Mold Avoidance: Somewhat
Onset Date: 3/17/20
Lung Date: 3/20/20
Lung Symptom Lag: 3 days
Lung Severity: Moderate Problem
High Fever: 100-101 (usually lower than normal)
Bedridden During Illness: Not bedridden
Relapse: Not sure
Duration: 5 days
Initial Symptom: Sore throat, Swollen lymph glands in neck
Very Severe Symptoms: Weakness
Severe Symptoms: Muscle aches; Bone pain; Joint pain; Pain when moving body parts; Tiredness; Sleepiness; Generally feeling terrible
Moderate Symptoms: Lung/chest pain; Lung/chest pressure; Dry cough; Dehydration; Elevated temperature; Feverish feelings; Chills
Mild Symptoms: Difficulty breathing; Shortness of breath; Sore/painful throat; Difficulties swallowing; Diarrhea; Abdominal pain; Runny/stuffy nose
Not An Issue: Wet cough; Pneumonia; Bronchitis; Headache; Difficulties with talking (sore voice); Vomiting; Feelings of nausea; Loss of appetite; Loss of smell; Loss of taste; Blue lips or face; Sneezing
Suspect Illness (compared to colds/flus): Different symptoms
Practitioner: Not seen
Decade Born: 1970’s
Gender: Female
Living: House
Previous Colds/Flus: One every couple of years
Usual Blood Pressure: Low
Chronic Conditions: Autoimmune illness; Food sensitivities; IBS; Toxic Mold Illness
Worst Neurological: Moderate
ME/CFS: Very Severe – Unrefreshing Sleep; Severe – PEM, Headaches, Muscle/Joint Pain; Sensitivities; Moderate – Cognitive, OI
Most severe activity level: 10 hours week
Recent activity level: 20 hours a week
Mold Avoidance: Big effort, not able to be avoiding mold recently
Mold Avoidance Skill: Extremely good
Mold Exposure: Not sure
HH Member #1: 1970’s; Moderate Illness
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