TLDR - Actinomyces are bacteria that can grow on the skin of individuals with weakened immune systems. This can add to chronic inflammation.
What are Actinomyces?
Actinomyces are bacteria that can cause a range of infections in humans. These bacteria resemble fungi in their growth patterns, but they are still bacteria. They can be part of the normal flora in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, but under certain conditions, they can become pathogenic.
Actinomyces in the Skin and Home
Actinomyces thrive in water damaged buildings with high moisture levels. These bacteria can transfer to an individual's skin thorough direct contact or airborne particles. Once on the skin, actinomyces can thrive if the individual doesn’t have a strong immune system (CIRS patients). As the skin sheds, these bacteria can spread to personal belongings, bedding, and other areas of the home, leading to ongoing and chronic inflammation.
Connection to the Foundations
Our bodies have natural defense mechanisms to protect us from bacteria like Actinomyces, but if you have a weak “body battery” or a disrupted circadian rhythm, your body may struggle to initiate repair processes and protect itself effectively. Are you getting enough sunlight on your skin? Sunlight has natural antibacterial properties and boosts vitamin D synthesis, which enhances the immune system's ability to fight off infections. In my opinion, the main reason someone would have issues with actinomyces is because they are not following the foundations.
Environmental Cleaning
If you've made it this far, you're likely already thoroughly cleaning for mold, dust, and other triggers. Nothing different needs to be done for actinomyces.
Thorough Cleaning: Regular cleaning of living spaces to reduce dust and organic matter where actinomyces might thrive.
HEPA Filters: Using high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to reduce airborne particles that might contain actinomyces.
Moisture Control: Keeping indoor humidity levels low to prevent the growth of actinomyces and other pathogens.
Personal Hygiene
Shampoos and Body Washes: Products containing antibacterial agents like Medicasp and Defense Soap can help remove actinomyces from the skin.
Regularly Washing Clothes: Actinomyces can accumulate on the clothes you wear. It’s best to avoid rewearing any clothing until you are certain that actinomyces is no longer an issue.
Actinomyces Testing
I would recommend against testing unless you are desperate for information. There are skin and environment tests but they are expensive like everything else. I’d recommend assuming actinomyces might be an issue for you and thoroughly clean and use the body wash recommendations above.