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Can mold be toxic to your health?

On Behalf of | Nov 9, 2018 | Firm News

Mold is a common presence in many homes and offices, and people do not often stop to consider how this might be negatively impacting their health.

The truth is that mold can be toxic in certain circumstances, so it is important to know what these situations are in order to protect yourself.

Defining toxic molds

There are many different types of molds, and not all of them are dangerous. In fact, mold itself is not toxic, but it can produce mycotoxins that are. One particular type of dangerous mold is Stachybotrys chartarum. It has a greenish-black color and grows where there is constant moisture. Many types of mold can cause nonspecific health symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you investigate and remove any type of household mold.

Mold and illnesses

If you work or live in a building where you are exposed to excess moisture that creates a mold problem, illnesses may result. You should know the signs of a toxic mold illness so that you can take action if you suspect that mold is the cause of your symptoms.

The CDC states that common household molds may cause respiratory difficulties or hay fever-like allergic symptoms, but reports of mold causing very serious conditions such as memory loss or pulmonary hemorrhage are rare. However, some studies have shown that children who experience early exposure to molds may be more susceptible to developing asthma. Mold may trigger an attack for asthma sufferers.

Mold allergy is a common problem and causes symptoms when your immune system overreacts to the mold spores you breathe in. It includes allergy symptoms such as a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, coughing, watery eyes and dry skin.

You should take action to address the situation with your employer or, if you rent, with your landlord. If you suffer injuries as a result of mold exposure, it is crucial to take action as soon as possible both on a health level as well as a legal level so that you can receive any compensation the law may entitle you to.