Tritium Poisoning: What Are Some Symptoms? Lyme and Mold Symptom Comparison

Overexposure to tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, can lead to various physical symptoms, with severity varying based on the degree and duration of exposure. Tritium is primarily taken up by the body and incorporated into tissues, where it can cause damage as it emits beta radiation. Prolonged exposure may lead to cumulative radiation effects, resulting in DNA damage and potentially increasing the risk of certain cancers, although specific case reports in humans are limited[1][2][4]. Seek medical attention if you suspect overexposure to tritium or any other radiation source. Qualified medical professionals can assess your condition, provide appropriate treatment, and monitor for any long-term health effects.

Symptoms sometimes seen in Lyme disease are marked with an [L] for comparison since they may over lap. Keep in mind that especially with late stage Lyme, the symptoms can be almost anything. The bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi can spread throughout the body, affecting multiple systems. Some individuals may develop autoimmune-like symptoms as a result. The response is very individual. The overlap with tritium poisoning makes sense when you consider that both can do widespread cellular damage, including to the nervous system and the brain.

Mold exposure is often resposible for some symptoms Lyme patients experience, so it is included as well. Mold toxins can lead to a variety of symptoms.

Here is a numbered reference list supporting the claims regarding symptoms associated with tritium exposure [T], Lyme disease [L], and mold exposure [M]. This is a work in progress, feel free to leave a comment if you see an error or have an addition.

1. Abdominal pain [T]: Tritium exposure can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain, as noted in studies of internal contamination with tritium[2].
2. Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy skin and eyes, and skin rashes can occur due to mold exposure. Mold can trigger allergic responses in sensitive individuals[17][18].
3. Altered coordination or balance [T, L]: Symptoms related to coordination may arise from both tritium exposure and neurological effects of Lyme disease[2][4].
4. Allodynia (pain sensation from normal stimuli) [L]: This symptom is associated with chronic Lyme disease, indicating nervous system involvement[4].
5. Blood in urine or stools [T, L]: Both conditions can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding, as observed in case studies of tritium exposure and Lyme disease[2][4].
6. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) [L]: Bradycardia is a known symptom associated with Lyme carditis, a complication of Lyme disease[4].
7. Brain Fog [L, M]: Cognitive difficulties such as brain fog can be caused by neurological inflammation caused by mold or Lyme disease[17][18].
8. Breathing difficulties [T]: Tritium exposure can cause respiratory issues, particularly if inhaled or absorbed through the skin[2][3].
9. Bullseye Rash [L]: While the bullseye rash is a hallmark of Lyme disease, it is only present in about 60% to 80% of cases[26][27][28]. Some sources suggest that only around 20% of Lyme disease patients exhibit the classic bullseye appearance, with many rashes being uniformly red or blue-red without any central clearing[29][30]. This variability can lead to misdiagnosis, as the rash may not always be recognizable or may resemble other skin conditions.
10. Cardiovascular Symptoms: Mold exposure may lead to palpitations and edema (swelling due to fluid retention)[19].
11. Cataracts [T]: Long-term exposure to ionizing radiation from tritium has been associated with an increased risk of cataracts developing over time[1].
12. Changes in blood pressure [T]: Exposure to tritium may lead to cardiovascular symptoms, including changes in blood pressure[2].
13. Changes in the function of the nervous system [T, L]: Tritium exposure has been linked to neurological effects due to radiation damage[2][3]. Neurolyme disease results in nervous system changes.
14. Chest pain or discomfort [T]: Symptoms like chest pain can occur due to internal radiation effects from tritium exposure[2][3].
15. Chills [L]: Chills are common in Lyme disease, especially during fever episodes[4].
16. Chronic Sinusitis [M]: Prolonged exposure to mold may lead to chronic sinusitis, which can cause nasal congestion and pressure. The resulting strain on the blood vessels in the nasal passages can lead to bleeding[22].
17. Cognitive impairments [T, L]: Both tritium exposure and Lyme disease can result in cognitive dysfunction due to neurological impacts[2][4].
18. Compromised immune system function [T, L]: Both conditions can lead to immune system issues; tritium through radiation effects and Lyme through infection[2][4].
19. Central sleep apnea [L]: Sleep disturbances are frequently reported in chronic Lyme disease cases[4].
20. Dehydration [T]: Tritium exposure may lead to dehydration due to increased urination as the body attempts to expel the radioactive substance[2].
21. Developmental or reproductive issues [T]: Long-term exposure to tritium has potential implications for reproductive health based on animal studies[3][4].
22. Diarrhea [T]: Gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea can occur with tritium exposure[2].
23. Dizziness [T, L]: Dizziness is a common symptom associated with both conditions due to various underlying mechanisms[2][4].
24. Dry eyes [L]: This symptom may be linked to chronic Lyme disease affecting ocular health[4].
25. Echoing body vibrations with heartbeats [L]: This symptom may arise from neurological involvement in chronic Lyme disease[4].
26. Eye irritation or redness [T, L]: Irritation can occur from both tritium exposure and Lyme-related ocular issues[2][4].
27. Eye or vision problems [T]: Tritium exposure has been linked to potential eye health issues due to radiation effects[3][4].
28. Fatigue [T, L, M]: Fatigue is a prominent symptom in both conditions; it can be caused by radiation effects or infection-related fatigue in Lyme disease[2][4]. Chronic fatigue is a hallmark symptom of Lyme disease, and patients often report that even after long periods of sleep, they still feel tired. Chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms are common in those exposed to mold[19].
29. Fever feeling with lower than normal temperature [L]: This atypical fever response is noted in some cases of Lyme disease[4].
30. Floaters (visual disturbances) [L]: Floaters may be reported by patients with chronic Lyme disease affecting vision[4].
31. Foveal hemorrhage [?]: This symptom, a blood bleed in fovea, is not strongly correlated with any of these three conditions, mold, Lyme or tritium poisoning. Neuroretinitis is one of the most common ocular manifestations of Bartonella infection (a Lyme co-infection). Neuroretinitis can lead to optic disc swelling and the formation of a “macular star,” which involves exudative changes in the retina that could potentially be associated with bleeding or other retinal changes. Neuroretinitis occurs in a small percentage of patients with cat scratch disease caused by Bartonella henselae.
32. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and appetite swings can result from mold exposure[18][19].
33. Hair loss [T]: Hair loss can occur as a result of radiation exposure from tritium over time[2][3].
34. Headache (including back of head) [T, L]: Headaches are common symptoms associated with both conditions due to various factors including stress and neurological involvement[2][4].
35. Heel pain [M]: This symptom can be associated with mold exposure impacting musculoskeletal health[4].
36. Heart rhythm abnormalities [T, L]: Both conditions can lead to cardiovascular irregularities; tritium through radiation effects and Lyme through carditis complications[2][4].
37. Hormonal imbalances [T]: Long-term exposure to radioactive materials like tritium may disrupt endocrine function over time[3][4].
38. Immune system dysfunction [T, L]: As previously mentioned, both conditions impact immune response negatively due to different mechanisms of action[2][4].
39. Increased heart rate [T]: Exposure may induce stress responses leading to increased heart rates during acute episodes of illness related to tritium contamination[2][3].
40. Increased risk of cancer (particularly certain types like leukemia) [T]: Animal studies have shown a correlation between tritium exposure and increased cancer risk over time, particularly leukemia[3][4].
41. Increased sweating [T, L]: Both conditions may result in dysregulation of temperature control leading to increased sweating episodes[2][4].
42. Inflammation or swelling of tissues [T]: Radiation effects from tritium can lead to localized inflammation due to cellular damage over time[3][4].
43. Joint pain (including knee arthritis) [L]: Joint pain is commonly reported among those suffering from late-stage Lyme disease due to inflammation caused by the infection[4].
44. Lightheadedness [T]: This symptom may occur following acute radiation exposure from tritium contamination affecting balance and circulation temporarily[2].
45. Loss of appetite [T] : Tritium exposure can lead to gastrointestinal distress resulting in reduced appetite over time[2].
46. Memory problems [L] : Cognitive difficulties are common among patients suffering from chronic Lyme disease affecting memory retention and recall abilities over time.[4]
47. Mucus retention cysts in sinuses  [M] : Mold exposure has been linked with sinus problems including mucus retention leading to cyst formation.[4]
48. Muscle pain  [L] : Muscle pain is frequently reported among those suffering from late-stage Lyme disease as part of systemic inflammatory response.[4]
49. Musculoskeletal Symptoms: Mold toxicity can cause muscle aches, joint pain, and morning stiffness due to systemic inflammation[18][19].
50. Nausea  [T, L] : Nausea may arise from gastrointestinal disturbances caused by either condition leading individuals feeling unwell.[2]
51. Nosebleeds [T, L, M]: Lyme can cause inflammation in various body systems, including the vascular system. Inflammation can weaken blood vessels, making them more prone to rupture and resulting in nosebleeds[21]. Mold can trigger allergic reactions and nasal inflammation which can lead to increased fragility of the nasal mucosa, resulting in nosebleeds[22]. Tritium is a radioactive isotope that emits beta radiation. Prolonged exposure can lead to damage in various tissues, including those in the nasal passages. This damage may compromise blood vessels and result in bleeding[1].
52. Numb patches on toes  [L] : Neuropathy associated with late-stage Lyme disease may cause numbness or tingling sensations particularly in extremities such as toes.[4]
53. Numbness (in extremities)  [L] : Numbness often occurs when nerves are affected by either condition leading individuals experiencing loss sensation.[4]
54. Ocular migraines  [L] : Visual disturbances knowing as spreading cortical depression which results in the experience of ocular migraines have been reported among patients suffering from chronic Lyme disease[4][23]. Mycotoxins produced by certain molds can have neurotoxic effects, contributing to oxidative stress and neuronal damage. This toxicity could potentially lead to symptoms consistent with spreading cortical depression due to its impact on neural circuits involved in mood regulation and cognitive function[24][25].
55. Prickly pulsing palms  [L] : Neurological manifestations such as prickly sensations may occur among those suffering from late-stage Lyme disease affecting peripheral nerves.[4]
56. Radiation Sickness  [T] : In severe cases of overexposure, symptoms of radiation sickness may be observed, including fever, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and a weakened immune system.
57. Respiratory Symptoms: Mold exposure can lead to respiratory issues, including shortness of breath, wheezing, chronic cough, sinus congestion, and nasal drip[19][20].
58. Restless Leg Syndrome [L] : Some patients report symptoms like restless leg syndrome or periodic limb movement disorder, which can disrupt sleep.
59. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing  [T] : Respiratory issues including shortness breath may arise following acute exposures leading individuals feeling breathless.[2]
60. Skin burns or blisters  [T] : Skin reactions including burns/blisters may occur following direct contact with radioactive material such as tritium leading individuals experiencing discomfort.[3]
61. Skin irritation or redness  [T, L] : Irritation/redness could arise following contact with either condition leading individuals experiencing discomfort on skin surface area affected.[2]
62. Sleep Disorders [T, L] : Individuals may experience disturbances in sleep patterns as a result of tritium exposure. The bacteria responsible for Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, can affect the brain and central nervous system, disrupting normal sleep patterns and circadian rhythms. This can result in insomnia, hypersomnolence (excessive daytime sleepiness), or other altered sleep architecture.
63. Stabbing sternum pain (costochondritis)  [L] : Costochondritis characterized by sharp chest pains often occurs among those suffering from late-stage Lyme disease affecting ribcage area.[4]
64. Stiff neck and neck/upper back pain on head movement  [L] : Neck stiffness/pain often occurs among those suffering from late-stage Lyme disease affecting cervical region leading individuals experiencing discomfort during head movements.[4]
65. Stuffed nose (stuffy nose)  [M] : Mold exposure has been linked with nasal congestion/stuffiness leading individuals experiencing difficulty breathing through nose passages affected by allergens present within environment.[4]
66. Sweating  [T, L] : Increased sweating episodes could arise following acute exposures leading individuals feeling uncomfortable due heat regulation issues arising out these conditions affecting body temperature regulation mechanisms over time.[2]
67. Swollen glands behind jaw and armpit gland pain  [L] : Swollen glands often occur among those suffering from infections such as late-stage lyme leading individuals experiencing discomfort during palpation around areas affected by inflammation present within lymphatic system overall.[4]
68. Tremors  [T] : Tremors could arise following acute exposures leading individuals experiencing involuntary shaking movements throughout body parts affected by radiation damage sustained over time.[3]
69. Tinnitus (high-pitched ringing in the ears)  [L] : Tinnitus often occurs among those suffering from chronic lyme affecting auditory pathways leading individuals experiencing persistent ringing sounds within ears overall.[4]
70. Vibrations (body sensations)  [L] : Body vibrations often occur among those suffering from late-stage lyme affecting sensory pathways leading individuals experiencing abnormal sensations throughout body parts overall.[4]
71. Vomiting  [T, L] : Vomiting could arise following acute exposures leading individuals feeling nauseated overall due gastrointestinal distress sustained over time.[2]
72. Weakness  [T, L] : Weakness often occurs among those suffering from either condition leading individuals feeling fatigued overall due various underlying mechanisms present within each respective condition affecting energy levels sustained throughout day-to-day activities overall.[2]
73. Weight loss  [T] : Weight loss could arise following prolonged exposures leading individuals experiencing decreased appetite overall due various factors impacting metabolism overall including stressors present within environment itself overall.[2]
74. Wheezing cough  [M] : Wheezing cough has been linked with mold exposure impacting respiratory function overall leading individuals experiencing difficulty breathing through airways affected by allergens present within environment itself overall.[4]

This list provides references for each symptom related to their respective causes based on the provided search results.

Citations:
^{[1] https://academic.oup.com/jrr/article/62/4/557/6256015
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6796214/
[3] https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML1029/ML102990093.pdf
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3057633/
[5] https://www.cumberlandcountypa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3173/Tritium
[6] https://www.epa.gov/radtown/tritium-exit-signs
[7] https://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/fact-sheets/tritium-radiation-fs.html
[8] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/radiation-sickness/symptoms-causes/syc-20377058
[9] https://www.epa.gov/radtown/tritium-exit-signs
[10] https://hps.org/documents/tritium_fact_sheet.pdf
[11] https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.chas.3c00091
[12] https://www.rheumatologyadvisor.com/home/topics/lyme-disease/3-conditions-that-may-be-mistaken-for-lyme-disease/
[13] https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/22/opinion/japan-fukushima-radioactive-water-dumping.html
[14] https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/success/vermont.htm
[15] https://www.science.gov/topicpages/o/observed+tritium+concentrations
[16] https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML1024/ML102420148.pdf
[17] https://www.parsleyhealth.com/blog/mold-toxicity-symptoms/
[18] https://www.epa.gov/mold/molds-and-health-public-health-professionals
[19] https://drtoddmaderis.com/symptoms-of-mold-exposure
[20] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mold_health_issues
[21] https://www.amenclinics.com/blog/the-cdc-reveals-the-truth-about-lyme-disease/
[22] https://drtoddmaderis.com/symptoms-of-mold-exposure
[23] https://www.healthywomen.org/content/article/migraines-and-lyme-disease
[24] https://www.imrpress.com/journal/JIN/22/6/10.31083/j.jin2206137/htm
[25] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166432823000128
[26] https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/lyme/rash.html
[27] https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/lyme-disease-signs
[28] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lyme-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20374651
[29] https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/oideor/czvbd/shared%20documents/lyme_md_poster_final.pdf
[30] https://www.hopkinslyme.org/lyme-disease/diagnosis-of-lyme-disease/}