A LITTLE ABOUT MOLD EXPOSURE AND RELATED HEALTH EFFECTS
Mold is common in the outside air we breathe, however, most of the time the exposure is diluted and does not cause ill effects. When mold grows indoors, however, this exposure can become much more concentrated and cause many health problems. People with allergies, immune system problems, breathing problems are a group most prone to health effects from mold. Pregnant women, the elderly, infants and children can also be more sensitive to mold. Some molds are much more hazardous than others and a person’s reaction to mold varies greatly. What may not bother you at all may have a drastic effect on someone else in your home or vice versa.
The health effects of mold exposure are related to two components: mold spores and mold toxins. When mold is prevalent, spores become concentrated and once airborne can be inhaled in large numbers, causing health problems. Many fungi can produce mycotoxins that cause a toxic response in humans. The primary way we are exposed to mycotoxins is breathing in spores or dust with spores on it. Molds that can produce toxic spores are certain species of Penicillium, Aspergillus and Fusarium. Stachybotrys chartarum (or Stachybotrys atra) and Aspergillus versicolor in particular, may produce toxins. The presence of these types of mold does not necessarily mean that the toxic forms are present.
Spore release is encouraged by a change in relative humidity and a high RH activates the release mechanisms of spores in some genera. An example would be Penicillium and Aspergillus, two of the most common indoor genera of mold. Walking in your home, using a vacuum cleaner, hot air heating systems, central air conditioners, etc., can all elevate the airborne spores many times. Keep in mind that most molds are not poisonous but there is always a mix of species present and you cannot rule out the presence of toxins in any mold growth.
Symptoms of mold exposure vary widely. Allergic reactions are the most common and include respiratory problems such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, etc. Nasal and sinus congestions, sinusitis, burning watery, red eyes, blurry vision, sore throat, dry cough, nose and throat irritation, shortness of breath and skin irritations are all possible symptoms. Other, less common but serious effects include problems with the nervous system such as headaches, memory loss and moodiness, aches and pains and fever. If anyone in your home has had any of these symptoms, and when they leave the home the symptoms subside or are completely gone, chances are that they have been exposed to some sort of allergen or toxin, possibly from mold. (more on mold)
Call or email me today for a complete mold assessment by a Certified Mold Inspector. My phone numbers are at the top and bottom of all web pages. Mold is not something to be taken lightly!!