Mold Health Effects

Can mold cause health effects?
Some people are more sensitive to mold health effects than others. You are exposed to molds every day, usually by touching or breathing them. Because molds naturally exist outdoor and indoor, living in a totally mold-free environment is practically impossible. As molds grow, spores can be released into the air where they can be easily inhaled. Your body’s reaction to mold exposure depends on how much you are exposed to mold, your age, and your sensitivities or allergies. The same amount of mold may cause health effects in one person, but not in another.

What are mold health risks and symptoms?
People who inhale high concentrations of mold spores may experience mold health effects. Possible health risks and symptoms from mold exposure include: allergic illness, irritant effects, infection, and toxic effects. For people that are sensitive to molds, health symptoms such as nasal and sinus irritation or congestion, dry hacking cough, wheezing, skin rashes or burning, watery or reddened eyes may occur. People with severe mold allergies may have more serious reactions, such as hay-fever-like symptoms or shortness of breath. People with chronic illnesses or people with immune system problems may be more likely to get infections from certain molds, viruses and bacteria.

Does mold cause serious health effects and problems?
Molds can also trigger asthma attacks in persons with asthma. Headaches, memory problems, mood swings, nosebleeds and body aches and pains are sometimes reported in mold complaints, but the causes of these physical health symptoms are not yet understood. The toxic health effects of certain molds are not well understood and are currently a controversial topic in the medical and scientific community. There is evidence of specific long-term toxic health effects from eating foods with mold toxins. Unfortunately, very little is known regarding the actual health risks from breathing in or from skin contact with mold toxins. Allergic disease is now considered the most likely health problem related to mold exposure. Research still continues today about possible mold health effects related to mold exposure.

Are you experiencing mold health problems?
The long-term presence of indoor mold may eventually become unhealthy for anyone, causing health problems. If you have special health concerns, you should consult your medical doctor if suspect health problems due to indoor mold. The following types of people may be more susceptible and affected more severely than others: Babies and children, elderly persons, individuals with chronic respiratory conditions or allergies or asthma, and persons having weakened immune systems (for example, people with HIV or AIDS, chemotherapy patients, or organ transplant recipients)

What do you do next?
If you’re experiencing health problems, contact your doctor first. If you’re concerned about a mold problem in your home or building, contact us to schedule your mold inspection in San Diego County.