What Are the Health Effects of Mold?

Of the hundreds of types of mold, only a limited number cause health reactions. Unfortunately, many of these are commonly found indoors or outdoors, increasing the chance of exposure. The fungi can cause health issues that range in type and severity. One person may experience a reaction to one type while another remains symptom-free. Knowing this makes it even more important to address it once its presence is revealed.

Symptoms of Mold Exposure

Typical symptoms of exposure to these fungi include runny nose, sneezing, and coughing common with a mold allergy, skin irritation, headaches, a sore throat, and difficulty breathing. Some people experience symptoms that are more severe including sinus infections, asthma attacks, and joint pain. The most serious reactions include pneumonia, bleeding in lungs, and depression. These can be life-threatening and require professional treatment and limiting exposure to the fungi.

Infants, young children, individuals with existing health issues, and the elderly are at highest risk of suffering from exposure. This includes people with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma or emphysema or individuals whose immune systems are compromised due to AIDS, HIV, or ongoing chemotherapy treatments. However, even adults who are otherwise healthy can experience reactions to exposure to the fungi.

Mold Sickness Extends to Pets

Humans are not the only species that can have a reaction to these fungi. Pets, particularly small ones, can become sick when exposed to it. Symptoms in pets include runny eyes, wheezing, sneezing, a rash, scratching, chewing or licking paws, and fatigue. Pets should be seen by a veterinarian if they are experiencing any of these symptoms. Continued exposure to it and lack of treatment can cause an affected pet to die.

Many people consider their pets members of the family so they should take steps to address household mold before it is too late. An affected pet may need to be removed from the house while it is being removed by the homeowner or a professional. It can grow in unseen places including HVAC ducts, where it may be detected only by an experienced mold remediator.

A musty odor is a telltale sign that this is growing in or around the home. Water leaks and poor ventilation are two contributing conditions. Home testing will reveal the presence of these fungi and a professional has the skills and equipment to address mold before it spreads and causes more health issues for the humans and pets in the family.


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