Mold Associated Illnesses

A variety of illnesses are associated with toxic mold exposure in a home or business. Ultimately, it is difficult to predict how someone will react to mold. Some people are more predisposed to serious respiratory illnesses due to conditions such as allergies or asthma. Depending on the person exposed, mold exposure may cause ill health effects that range from severe health problems to minor annoyances. The following is a brief guide to the risks and illnesses associated with toxic mold.

Medical Data on Mold – No Consensus

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

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mold spores can emit toxic chemicals called mycotoxins. The mycotoxins can have different health effects depending on the extent of exposure and a person’s pre-existing conditions. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises that mold is not necessarily a problem unless it starts to affect the indoor environment.

How Does Mold Come About?

Mold problems can arise in a variety of ways. But the presence of mold-related issues usually correlates with moisture problems. Many types of mold, such as penicillium, aspergillus, or Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold), thrive in dampness. Sources of moisture, such as water damage exacerbated by poor air conditioning, can speed fungal or mold growth.

Inspect areas more susceptible to poor indoor air quality to identify moldy areas. That includes:

• Drywall in basements, especially after water leaks
• Water-damaged building materials, including soft and hard surfaces
• Ceiling tiles, particularly in office buildings

Poor ventilation is a contributing factor in almost all cases involving indoor mold growth. After water damage, mold issues can persist unless building materials are thoroughly dried. Otherwise, prolonged presence of mold can lead to health risks in vulnerable people.

Mold Exposure Illnesses: Who Is Most at Risk?

Those who are most at risk of illness from mold exposure include:

• People prone to allergic reactions (such as rhinitis or hay fever, which causes sneezing, runny nose, and swelling)
• People with health conditions or diseases that weaken immune defenses
• People with respiratory conditions such as lung disease
• People with immune disorders like hypersensitivity pneumonitis
• The elderly and young children

While mold can be an allergen in its least harmful state, it can do much more damage than dust mites. Public health advocates have argued that extensive exposure by very vulnerable people can even lead to organ damage. You should consult a doctor or other health care professional to properly diagnose your circumstances.

Illnesses Caused by Mold Exposure

Mold exposure does not always present a serious health threat. The severity of possible illnesses caused by mold exposure largely depends on:

1. Health characteristics of the person exposed, and
2. 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 the immune system
• Bleeding in the lungs

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

How Does Mold Remediation Work?

Homeowners should prioritize cleanup as soon as they discover mold growth. A mold-damaged building is a sick building. For example, a flood might lead to visible mold on a building’s surfaces. Even worse, fungus can grow indoors under surfaces that might not be readily visible. A mold removal company has the expertise to discover and remove mold properly.

To protect your real estate, you can begin the remediation process by:

• Ensuring air circulation in affected areas, such as by opening windows and doors
• Running ventilation, dehumidifiers, or air conditioning to dry out damp environments
• Treating affected hard surfaces with hot water and appropriate cleaning agents

These solutions might be temporary, so you need to consult a professional.

How a Lawyer Can Help

If you’ve suffered adverse health effects or property damage from mold, you may be able to hold someone responsible. From negligent home sellers and unresponsive landlords to irresponsible building contractors, plenty of parties may be at fault. A toxic mold attorney can help you identify potential defendants to pursue in your case. They’ll be able to help you recover costs for your injuries, property losses, and more.