Mold Associated Illnesses

There are a variety of illnesses associated with toxic mold exposure in a home or business. Ultimately, it is difficult to predict how a given person will react to mold exposure, because some people are more predisposed to serious respiratory illnesses -- due to conditions such as allergies or asthma. Depending on the individual who has been exposed, mold exposure may cause ill effects that range from very serious health problems to minor annoyances. Following is a discussion of risks and illnesses associated with toxic mold.

Medical Data on Mold – No Consensus

In general, the medical community has not reached a solid consensus regarding illnesses associated with toxic mold exposure. The level of indoor mold concentration that is regarded as “healthy” even varies widely among health professionals. In any case, as a simple rule, if the concentration level of mold in a home or commercial building is higher than the concentration outdoors, the possibility for adverse (and potentially serious) health problems exists.

Mold Exposure Illnesses: Who is Most at Risk?

It is generally accepted that those who are most at risk of illness from mold exposure include:

• People with allergies
• People with conditions or diseases that weaken immune defenses
• People with lung disease
• The elderly
• Young children

Illnesses Caused by Mold Exposure

Mold exposure does not always present a serious health threat. Severity of possible illnesses caused by mold exposure largely depends on health characteristics of the individual who has been exposed, and the specific mold strain found in the home or commercial building.

Some of the most common illnesses associated with mold exposure are:

• Worsening of allergies
• Respiratory problems
• Fever
• Nasal and sinus congestion
• Burning and watering eyes
• Worsening of asthma
• Coughing
• Sore throat
• Flu-like symptoms
• Skin irritation
• Headaches

In some rare cases, toxic mold exposure is alleged to have caused the following serious health-related consequences:

• Memory loss
• Brain damage
• Death
• Suppression of immune system
• Bleeding in the lungs

In any case, if the level of mold in your home or business is higher than a naturally occurring concentration, there is the possibility for serious health consequences. If you experience any of the above-mentioned health-related symptoms you should contact a health care professional immediately.