The
degree of health concern associated with mold depends
on the length of exposure, degree of exposure, and an
individual’s sensitivity to molds. In individuals who
are sensitive to molds, common health concerns include
hay fever-like allergic symptoms — eye irritation (burning
watery, redness), nose or throat irritation (sneezing
fits, nasal stuffiness, bloody noses; dry, hacking cough),
respiratory problems (wheezing, asthma attacks, difficulty
breathing), headaches, and skin rashes — as well as
fungal infections in those with immune suppression or
pre-existing lung disease.
A few people in homes with mold have developed pulmonary
hemorrhage (bleeding in the lungs) or memory loss, but
these cases are rare and the link to mold as the cause
of these health problems has not been fully proven.
Individuals most at risk for health problems due to
inhaling mold spores are infants and children, pregnant
women, people with compromised immune systems, individuals
with existing respiratory conditions, individuals with
allergies, and the elderly. If you or a family member
has any of these conditions, consult with your doctor
and take steps to prevent mold growth in your home.
Health
Problems Black Mold Can Cause:
* Itchy Throat
* Water Eyes
* Headaches
* Memory Loss
* Irritated skin
* Excessive Coughing
* Excess mucus
* Bleeding in the lungs
* Mold in the bloodstream
* Possible mild strokes
* Fatigue
Mold
health problems are also more prone to younger children
and elderly. Also, reports found immune compromised
individuals were more prone to mold health problems
if continuous exposure.
Important Information about Mold:
* Mold can be more severe for younger children and older
adults
* Immune compromised individuals could have more mold
health problems
* Mold exposure is important
* The more you inhale the mold the more affect it has
long term
* Mold Symptoms lessen as you receive fresh clean air
Lessen the exposure of mold Mold CleanersIf you have
a mold problem, go outside and get some fresh air. You
will notice the symptoms reduce in 15 to 30 minutes.
The long exposure times to mold are what can cause severe
mold health problems.
What is this black mold that I keep hearing about and
does this pose a serious health risk? The mold you are
referring to is called Stachybotrys chartarum (it is
also called Stachybotrys atra ). This mold is greenish-black
and slimy — resembling tar or black paint. Stachybotrys
typically grows only on cellulose-containing products
— paper, cardboard, fiberboard, ceiling tiles, and any
wood-based products. Constant moisture is required for
its growth.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
there is no accurate information about how common this
mold is in buildings and homes. They say it is less
common than other molds but is not rare. Serious illnesses
that might be linked with Stachybotrys include bleeding
lungs in infants, sudden infant death syndrome, and
central nervous system changes such as personality changes,
sleep disorders, and memory loss. Further studies are
needed to determine if this mold actually causes these
illnesses. If you believe you are ill due to exposure
to mold, see your doctor to discuss the appropriate
action to take.
