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About-Mold | Health-Effects | Mold Outbreak | Detection-of-Mold | Clean-up-Procedures | Useful-Publication
HEALTH EFFECTS
How am I exposed to indoor molds?
Mold is found everywhere, indoors and outdoors. It is
common to find mold spores in the air of homes and growing on damp
surfaces. Much of the mold found indoors comes from outdoor sources.
Therefore, everyone is exposed to some mold on a daily basis without
evident harm. Mold spores primarily cause health problems when they enter
the air and are inhaled in large number. People can also be exposed to
mold through skin contact and eating.
How much mold can make me sick?
It depends. For
some people, a relatively small number of mold spores can cause health
problems. For other people, it may take many more. The basic rule is, if
you can see or smell it, take steps to eliminate the excess moisture, and
to cleanup and remove the mold.
Who is at greater risk when exposed to mold problems?
Exposure to mold is not healthy for anyone inside
buildings. It is important to quickly identify and correct any moisture
sources before health problems develop. The following individuals appear
to be at higher risk for adverse health effects of molds:
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Infants and children
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elderly
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immune compromised patients (people with HIV
infection, cancer chemotherapy, liver disease, etc.)
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pregnant women
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individuals with existing respiratory conditions,
such as allergies, multiple chemical sensitivity, and asthma.
People with these special concerns should consult a
physician if they are having health problems due to mold.
What symptoms are common?
Allergic reactions may be the most common health
problem of mold exposure. Typical symptoms reported (alone or in
combination) include:
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respiratory problems, such as wheezing, and
difficulty in breathing
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nasal and sinus congestion
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eyes-burning, watery, reddened, blurry vision,
light sensitivity
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dry, hacking cough
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sore throat
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nose and throat irritation
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shortness of breath
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skin irritation
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central nervous system problems (constant
headaches, memory problems, and mood changes)
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aches and pains
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possible fever
Are some molds more toxic than others?
Allergic persons vary in their sensitivities to mold,
both as to amount and type needed to cause reactions. In addition, certain
types of molds can produce toxins, called mycotoxins, that the mold
uses to inhibit or prevent the growth of other organisms. Mycotoxins are
found in both living and dead mold spores. Materials permeated with
mold need to be removed, even after they are disinfected with cleaning
solutions. Allergic and toxic effects can remain in dead spores.
Exposure to mycotoxins may present a greater hazard than that of
allergenic or irritative molds. Mycotoxins have been found in homes,
agricultural settings, food, and office buildings.
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