Mold exposure isn’t just an inconvenience; it can trigger a cascade of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. From mild allergic reactions to full-blown illness from mold symptoms, this blog explores how mold affects the body, what to watch for, and when to act. Left untreated, these symptoms can interfere with daily life, impair your immune system, and escalate into long-term health conditions like CIRS mold illness, making awareness and timely intervention critical.
What Is Mold Sickness?
Mold sickness is a broad term for health issues caused by exposure to indoor mold, especially in water-damaged buildings. It can range from allergic responses to a complex condition called Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). Unlike simple mold allergies, CIRS mold illness is a systemic inflammatory condition triggered by biotoxins, with symptoms that can affect multiple organs. Mold sickness is often overlooked because symptoms, fatigue, headaches, joint pain, resemble other conditions. Many homes hide contamination behind walls or in HVAC systems, making mold illness a silent epidemic.
Why Mold Exposure Affects the Body
When mold spores or mycotoxins are inhaled or absorbed, they can cause inflammation, immune dysfunction, and neurological disturbances. People with genetic susceptibility or preexisting conditions may be especially vulnerable to mold and sickness, particularly those with the HLA-DR gene that prevents proper biotoxin clearance. Prolonged mold exposure can cause, digestive problems, chronic inflammation, respiratory strain, and cognitive issues such as brain fog or memory loss. Even low-level contamination can create long-term mold health risks if the moisture problem isn’t resolved.
37 Mold Exposure Symptoms to Watch For
The symptoms of CIRS mold symptoms are wide-ranging. They don’t follow a neat pattern, which is why mold-related illness is frequently misdiagnosed as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, or depression. Below are the 37 most commonly reported sicknesses from mold exposure.
Respiratory & Sinus Issues
Persistent coughing
Shortness of breath
Nasal congestion
Sinus infections
Wheezing or chest tightness
The link between mold and asthma is strong. Spores aggravate airways, triggering wheezing and asthma attacks. Controlling indoor humidity and scheduling expert mold remediation can significantly reduce asthma flare-ups.
Neurological and Cognitive Impacts
Brain fog
Dizziness or vertigo
Poor concentration
Headaches
Sensitivity to light or sound
Skin & Eye Reactions
Rashes or hives
Itchy or burning skin
Red, irritated eyes
Dry, peeling skin
Unexplained breakouts
A mold rash often appears as itchy red patches, bumps, or blisters that can peel or burn. These reactions may come with coughing or sinus pressure. Effective relief means eliminating the source through professional mold removal, not just applying topical creams.
Digestive and Metabolic Problems
Bloating and gas
Nausea
Diarrhea or constipation
Loss of appetite
Food intolerances
Digestive issues like bloating, nausea, or food sensitivities can stem from mold exposure and digestive problems caused by inhaling spores or mycotoxins. Professional remediation and indoor air quality improvements are essential for recovery.
Mood, Sleep & Mental Health Effects
Depression
Anxiety
Irritability
Panic attacks
Insomnia or poor sleep quality
Inflammatory and Hormonal Symptoms
Muscle cramps or aches
Joint pain without swelling
Irregular periods
Hormonal imbalances
Cold hands or feet
Increased thirst and urination
Night sweats
Immune & Systemic Red Flags
Frequent colds or infections
Low-grade fever
Static shocks or electrical sensitivity
Numbness or tingling
Unexplained weight changes
If you’re noticing several of these symptoms together, it could indicate CIRS mold symptoms rather than isolated health problems. This is especially true if the symptoms worsen in specific indoor environments. If coughing, fatigue, or brain fog worsen at home and ease when you leave, it’s time to ask: how do I know if mold is making me sick? Keeping a symptom diary and scheduling professional inspection help confirm a mold-related illness.
Mold Sickness or Something Else?
Misdiagnosis is common. Conditions like Lyme disease, long COVID, and multiple sclerosis can mimic what is CIRS symptoms. However, if your health deteriorates after moving into a new home or after a flood or HVAC issue, it’s worth considering mold cirs symptoms as a root cause.
What to Do If You Suspect Mold Illness
Get your environment tested – ERMI, HERTSMI, and air quality tests can confirm mold presence.
Track your symptoms – A daily journal helps identify environmental triggers.
Seek functional testing – Look into visual contrast sensitivity (VCS) testing or mycotoxin panels.
Consult a CIRS-literate doctor – Traditional labs may not detect the problem.
Professional testing is crucial, especially if you’ve tried multiple treatments with little improvement. Diagnosing CIRS symptoms requires a multi-layered approach.
Why DIY Mold Removal Isn’t Enough
Even visible mold cleanup doesn’t guarantee health safety. Spores and mycotoxins can remain airborne, travel through HVAC systems, or embed in porous materials. Proper remediation requires:
Negative air pressure containment
HEPA filtration
Removal of contaminated materials
Moisture control and prevention
Skipping professional remediation puts your recovery, and your family’s health, at continued risk.
Final Thoughts
The 37 symptoms listed above aren’t just isolated complaints, they form a mosaic of illness from mold symptoms that could point to a larger environmental health crisis. If you suspect mold is impacting your well-being, take your symptoms seriously. Early identification and professional remediation are the keys to recovery.
For those struggling with CIRS mold symptoms, trust the experts at Mold-B-Gone, a leading mold removal company in Atlanta that homeowners and businesses rely on. Our team offers advanced mold inspection, comprehensive remediation, and indoor air quality solutions tailored to your environment. Whether you’re experiencing a few suspicious symptoms or the full spectrum of 37 CIRS symptoms, you deserve a clean space and a clear path to health.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is mold sickness and how is it different from allergies?
Mold sickness refers to health problems caused by exposure to indoor mold, especially in water-damaged environments. While mold allergies may only cause sneezing or itchy eyes, mold sickness can lead to a more serious condition called Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). CIRS is a systemic inflammatory illness triggered by mold biotoxins that can affect multiple organs.
How do mold spores and mycotoxins affect the body?
When inhaled or absorbed, mold spores and mycotoxins can trigger inflammation, weaken the immune system, and disrupt normal neurological functions. Some individuals, particularly those with genetic predispositions like the HLA-DR gene, cannot properly eliminate biotoxins, making them more vulnerable to prolonged illness and worsening symptoms.
What are the most common symptoms of CIRS mold illness?
CIRS-related mold illness symptoms include persistent coughing, sinus congestion, brain fog, dizziness, rashes, digestive issues, anxiety, insomnia, joint pain, and frequent infections. Because these symptoms affect multiple systems in the body, they are often misdiagnosed as chronic fatigue, depression, or fibromyalgia.
Can mold sickness be mistaken for other conditions?
Yes. Mold-related illness is often confused with Lyme disease, long COVID, and even autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis. This is why tracking symptoms, noting environmental triggers, and undergoing specialized tests such as visual contrast sensitivity (VCS) or mycotoxin panels are important for accurate diagnosis.
Why is professional mold remediation more effective than DIY cleaning?
DIY cleaning may remove visible mold, but it doesn’t eliminate airborne spores or hidden contamination in HVAC systems, walls, or porous materials. Professional remediation uses containment, HEPA filtration, and moisture control to completely remove mold and prevent it from returning. This ensures both the home and its occupants are protected from long-term exposure.
Molds are a common problem that can eventually create serious health and structural issues at home. Prevention and reduction both call for an understanding of how exactly the climate influences the development of molds. This article explains the relationship between climate and molds, such as ideal conditions for molds, how temperature affects mold growth, and more.
What Is It and Why Does It Matter?
Mold is a fungus that loves to reside in an area that is wet and has warmth. It is usually spread through the air by spores. These spores land on a particular surface and, under conducive conditions, grow there. Mold growth may cause various health problems, such as difficulty in breathing, allergies, and infections. It is, therefore, vital to control mold growth in a place of residence.
Favorable Conditions for Growth of Mold
Mold requires four main components to grow: moisture, warmth, oxygen, and a food source. Organic materials are the common substrates, including most woods, paper, and fabric. The best temperatures for this kind of organism are usually between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, although some species can multiply outside this temperature range. High relative humidity makes a significant contribution to the proliferation of mold during its development. A relative humidity above 60% is considered ideal for mold growth.
At What Temperature Does Mold Grow?
Temperature is very important in the growth of molds. Molds can be found to grow at about 40°F; however, ideal growth is typically at a higher temperature. During the cooler months, heating a room inside a building results in relatively warmer and damper air, which is conducive for molds to grow. Thus, knowing how temperature affects mold growth is fundamental to its effective management.
Humidity And Molds
If there were a singularly most important factor in mold growth, it might be humidity. Mold grows in the presence of moisture, and high relative humidity (greater than 60%) permits mold spores the water needed for germination and growth. Proper ventilation and the use of dehumidifiers can control indoor humidity.
Controlling Mold Growth in Response to Climate Changes
A damp build-up in the home should be controlled as a way of dealing with the growth of mold in whatever climatic condition. If mold is a problem, seek professional help. For Atlanta, Georgia, residents, Mold-B-Gone Remediation, the mold remediation experts in Atlanta, offers full services of mold inspection and removal for a home that assures its residents of a healthy living environment. Call us today and ensure that your home will be safe from the bad effects of mold.
Mold B Gone has been serving residents in the Atlanta area for more than a decade. We are experts at mold testing and mold removal, using our proven system to ensure that the indoor ecology of our clients’ properties are healthy.
We are particularly proud to offer specialized mold removal services to individuals that are mold sensitized.
The main purpose of this article is to explain why some people are more susceptible to mold illness and require specialized mold removal services to recover!
What Does Mold Sensitized Mean?
In March of 2015, Wonder Makers Environmental, based in Michigan, launched www.moldsensitized.com with the goal of educating consumers, contractors, and health professionals on the health concerns caused by mold. The website’s goal is to be the ultimate resource of mold information and contains many articles written by the CEO, Michael Pinto.
There is a lack of appreciation in the medical community of the impact mold can have on certain individuals.
Symptoms from mold sickness are broad, leading to multiple mis-diagnosis of patients by many doctors.
Mold sensitized individuals seek help from multiple medical practitioners because their illnesses continue.
The mold sensitized individual eventually learns that mold has been the cause of their sickness.
Because traditional remediation approaches do not adequately address their sensitivities, mold sensitized individuals often are forced to seek alternative shelters.
According to experts featured on the MOLDY documentary, 28 percent of the population have genes that make them highly susceptible to mold-related illness. Putting this into perspective, and based on the population of the metro Atlanta area, there are approximately 1.5 residents susceptible to mold sickness.
According to Dr. Richie Shoemaker, a physician and expert in the field of biotoxin-related illness and author of the book Surviving Mold, the most common condition associated with mold illness is Chronic Inflammatory Syndrome.
What Is Chronic Inflammatory Syndrome?
What Is Chronic Inflammatory Syndrome?
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), also known as Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), is a combination of illnesses or aliments that are in direct relation with an individual’s place of work or home environment:
An acute and chronic, systemic inflammatory response syndrome acquired following exposure to the interior environment of a water-damaged building with resident toxigenic organisms, including, but not limited to fungi, bacteria, actinomycetes and mycobacteria as well as inflammagens such as endotoxins, beta glucans, hemolysins, proteinases, mannans, c-type lectins and possibly spirocyclic drimanes, plus volatile ogranic compounds.
The term Sick Building Syndrome was first coined by the World Health Organization in the 1980s and it is believed that it is caused by poor air quality caused by water damage.
According to Shoemaker:
This illness happens after exposure to the interior environment of a Water-Damaged Building (WDB). There are many ways buildings become home to a toxic mix of microbes, fragments of microbes, and harmful chemicals. Buildings can host fungi, bacteria, mycobacteria, and actinomycetes as a result of construction defects like inappropriate ventilation; faulty construction of crawl spaces or inadequate building design; flat roofs or fake stucco cladding without adequate caulking; incomplete basements exposed to saturated ground water conditions; or not correcting water leaks.
According to Shoemaker, 25% of the population has a genetic pre-disposition to CIRS; women tend to report more symptoms than men:
Genes made them prime targets for an assault by their own innate immune systems….exposure to the interior environment of a Water-Damaged Building (WDB), [causes] an innate immune response that is going haywire.
Individuals exposed to the toxins in a water damaged building suffer from chronic illness because their bodies are trying to eliminate the foreign substances that stay in the body resulting in chronic inflammation and multiple symptoms. In fact, one of the reasons that it is so difficult to diagnose CIRS is due to the fact that there are 37 symptoms: fatigue; weakness; aches; muscle cramps; unusual pain; ice pick pain; headache; light sensitivity; red eyes; blurred vision; tearing; sinus problems; cough; shortness of breath; abdominal pain; diarrhea; joint pain; morning stiffness; memory issues; focus/concentration issues; word recollection issues; decreased learning of new knowledge; confusion; disorientation; skin sensitivity; mood swings; appetite swings; sweats (especially night sweats); temperature regulation or dysregulation problems; excessive thirst; increased urination; static shocks; numbness; tingling; vertigo; metallic taste; and tremors.
Because of the large number of symptoms and different combinations that a patient can have, CIRS is difficult to diagnose.
Suspect Mold Is Making You Sick? Here Are Some Recommendations!
Suspect Mold Is Making You Sick? Here Are Some Recommendations!
If you have been suffering from ill-health for an extended period of time and the treatments that you are prescribed do not seem to help, then here are some recommended action steps.
Listen to your body. If you are feeling sick and despite under-going multiple treatments still continue to feel sick, then do not give up on trying to find out what the cause is.
Review the experiences of mold survivors to gain greater insight into mold sickness. One of the primary reasons you want to do this is so that you will have some further evidence that you can take to your preferred medical practitioner.
Continue to educate yourself. Because of the lack of knowledge in the mainstream medical community, you need to take a lead role in determining whether mold is making you sick.
Finally, if after all your research, you think that mold is the problem, then verify the existence of mold in your home by investing in a mold inspection and air quality test.
What Should I Do If I Am Diagnosed With Mold Sickness?
What Should I Do If I Am Diagnosed With Mold Sickness?
If you suspect that you are sick because of mold, then the next step is to find a Doctor that has knowledge about mold sickness. To find listings of environmental doctors throughout the world, click here.
Two Steps To Recovery!
Once you are diagnosed, there are two distinct steps to your recovery.
Seek Medical Treatment
Medical treatment is designed to detox your body and allow your immune system to recover and begin to regain its strength. The detox strategy will be prescribed by your physician who will likely recommend that you remove yourself from the property that has been making you sick until it is safe to occupy again.
Remediate Your Home
The process of removing mold from your home and ensuring that you can move back in without experiencing further sickness is the long term solution to health recovery.
In the past, mold sensitized individuals were forced to abandon their primary residences even after remediation because contractors did not understand the Big Picture of how the remediation and cleaning activities have to be coordinated with the medical and building maintenance aspects of the project.
If you want to invest into mold remediation, we recommend that you hire Mold B Gone because we have invested in the remediation for sensitized individuals training. Our team graduated from this course. In addition, Mold B Gone specializes in whole house and room sanitizing to reduce the amount of bacteria and pathogens in your home allowing you to breath easier and healthier.
Five Key Benefits Offered To Mold Sensitized Individuals By Mold B Gone!
Mold B Gone offers mold sensitized individuals these five key benefits:
Commitment to completing the job correctly the first time, with the understanding that our goal is provide you with a safe place to live or work because our team knows that our work practices can impact your health.
Clear understanding that the environmental portion of projects with sensitized individuals has many facets (i.e., source removal, content cleaning, HVAC decontamination, whole structure cleaning, building performance improvements, etc.) and will provide services only in those areas where they are qualified.
Clear understanding that your project requires procedures that are more protective than the current standard of care for the mold remediation industry.
Commitment to specific project endpoints that have been designed for sensitized individuals (endpoints that incorporate the latest health/science data).
Long term cost savings, peace of mind, and less anxiety because we will be familiar with situations like yours and the most effective techniques for this stringent remediation.
Got Mold Questions?
Mold B Gone is here to help and committed to serving mold sensitized individuals. If you suspect that mold is making you sick, call us, 470-545-4467 or contact us via e-mail for further assistance. Our goal is to help you live a healthier and happy life. Most importantly, we truly empathize with your situation and are committed to helping you and guarantee our services.
How Do I Know If I’m Allergic To #Mold? | Atlanta GA | Mold-B-Gone https://t.co/F7BfbV4O2m This article provides information on how to determine if you are mold sensitized explaining why some people are more susceptible to mold illness. PLEASE RETWEET pic.twitter.com/Pha4wjNHgu
Recently, the news reported about an eight year old boy, William Hewlett, that begged his parents to kill him after he started suffering from a brain disorder they fear may have been triggered by mold. According to the article, this young boy developed Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) which is caused when an infection triggers a misdirected immune response resulting in brain inflammation. One of the suspected causes is environmental factors, like mold. William’s mother, Johanne Hewlett, suspects that mold may be the cause because tests showed that her son had high levels of mycotoxins in his system.
One of the symptoms that William displayed was a complete lack of willingness to live, he was extremely depressed. According to Dr. Mary Ackerley’s article, The Brain on Fire: The role of toxic mold in triggering psychiatric symptoms, people feel depressed when exposed to mold because toxins released by mold, mycotoxins, pass directly into the brain
Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions;
Fatigue and decreased energy;
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness;
Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism;
Insomnia, early morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping;
Irritability, restlessness;
Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex;
Loss of pleasure in life;
Overeating or appetite loss;
Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment;
Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings;
Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts
The purpose of this article is to provide you with a basic understanding of scientific and anecdotal data linking mold with depression.
Similar Symptoms For CIRS and Depression!
Similar Symptoms For CIRS and Depression!
In 2015, Wonder Makers Environmental, created a website, www.moldsensitized.com, dedicated to creating a resource on mold. On their website, they have documented some interviews with mold survivors who suffered from Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).
One of the key conclusions that can be gained from these interviews: mold does have an impact on the brain. In the words of the survivors:
“The first symptom that alerted me that something was wrong was the sensation of crawling on my skin along with ice pick/pinprick pain in random places. Shortly after, I noticed that I had the inability to recollect words, slurry speech, memory loss, and an overwhelming fatigue. Other symptoms included vision disturbances, irritability and severe depression.” (Hilesca Hidalgo: Mold Survivor)
“I had burning eyes, headaches, pain in my arms and legs, balance issues, impaired cognitive abilities, and vision issues.” (Kelli Hamilton: Mold Survivor)
Comparing the list of CIRS symptoms with the symptoms of depression listed earlier, it is clear that there are many similar symptoms associated with both conditions. This is likely the reason why many people sick from mold are unable to get proper treatment because they are diagnosed with a depressive disorder as opposed to a health condition caused by exposure to mold.
The biggest challenge mold survivors face is the lack of empathy and knowledge from doctors who do not understand mold sickness. Tragically, some survivors are even told that their sickness is all in their head:
“The doctors told us there was nothing wrong with her as she lay screaming in pain, convulsing on the table. The next ER, at a different hospital told us the same thing. The specialist we were sent to said ‘There is nothing wrong with her, I’ve read the reports. I won’t see her until she has a neuro-psych work-up.” (Debra Rogers: Mold Survivor)
Brown University Study on Mold and Depression!
Brown University Study on Mold and Depression!
In 2007, researchers at Brown University released a study showing a link between mold and depression.
The study, led by epidemiologist Edmond Shenassa, analyzed data from 5,882 adults in 2,982 households.
The data was collected by the World Health Organization in 2002 and 2003. Interviewers visited 1000s of homes in eight European cities and asked residents a series of questions to assess symptoms of depression, including symptoms of low appetite, self-esteem, and sleep disturbances. They also tried to visually verify the presence of mold by looking at spots on the wall and ceilings.
What they found was that symptoms of depression were up to 40% higher for residents living in visibly moldy households than for residents that did not have mold in their homes.
Based on this survey, they concluded that there is a definite connection between damp, moldy homes and depression.
The studies author, further concluded that:
“Physical health, and perceptions of control, are linked with an elevated risk for depression, and that makes sense. If you are sick from mold, and feel you can’t get rid of it, it may affect your mental health. Healthy homes promote healthy lives.”
Despite the findings of this study, many in the scientific community consider this an anecdotal study because the researchers did not take actual air samples or swab samples of the suspected visual mold. Because of this, the conclusions of this study have been questioned.
Scientific Data Linking Mold With Depression!
Scientific Data Linking Mold With Depression!
In her article, The Brain on Fire: The role of toxic mold in triggering psychiatric symptoms, Dr. Mary Ackerley explores the scientific research linking mold with brain disorders, including depression.
Unfortunately, one of the common symptoms of depression is suicide. As stated by Ackerley:
“I have patients who will walk into moldy places and their first sign that something is wrong is that they start thinking about suicide. I see that fairly frequently.”
According to Ackerley and other experts she cites, people feel depressed when exposed to mold because toxins released by mold, mycotoxins, pass directly into the brain.
Mold enters the body through the nose and eyes via the olfactory neurons which directly communicate with the brain.
Once the toxins enter the brain, it causes neuroinflammation which has a negative impact on the frontal cortex of the brain, the pleasure center that rules emotion, leading to depression.
Since Ackerley and other scientists believe that mold can cause depression, they have developed treatment protocols that focus on detoxing the patient.
The first step before treatment is to verify if mold is in fact the cause of sickness, which is accomplished through blood tests and the visual contrast sensitivity test developed by Dr. Shoemaker.
The second step is to begin the detox process. Ackerley has successfully used the drug cholestyramine (CSM), to reduce symptoms by up to 75%, provided the patient removes themself from the toxic environment.
She also recommends her patients to adopt a low carb and low sugar diet and the addition of supplements such as fish oil, magnesium, turmeric, probiotics, and vitamin D.
Mold Does Affect Your Brain Causing Depression!
Mold Does Affect Your Brain Causing Depression!
According to Ackerley, the prevalence of mold induced depression could be quite high:
“One fascinating thing I’d like to point out: Dr. Shoemaker has often said that it’s about 25% of the population is susceptible to biotoxin-associated illness. When you add up who’s been diagnosed with a psychiatric illness, it too adds up to about 25% of the population. Is that a coincidence? Perhaps. But it’s a very interesting coincidence to me.”
With respect to the evidence linking the relationship between mold and depression, it is quite clear that mold does affect the brain and this is confirmed by scientific data, further strengthened by the anecdotal data offered by the Brown University study and the mold survivors who have come forward and documented their symptoms.
How prevalent is mold sickness? According to Dr. Scott McMahon, MD, who appeared in the MOLDY documentary:
“Possibly every doctor…is treating mold illness, and they just don’t realize it.”
If you suffer from depression, here are two questions that you need to ask:
How healthy is the air quality of my home?
Does my home have mold?
Got Mold Questions?
Got Mold Questions?
If you suspect that your depression is caused by poor indoor air quality and mold, contactMold B Gone so that we can do a formal mold inspection and indoor air quality tests. Peace of mind is just a phone call away, 470-545-4467!
Mold B Gone are mold inspection and mold removal experts serving the Atlanta, Georgia area. We have helped 1000s of consumers and business owners with their mold issues using our 8 step mold removal process and eco-friendly chemicals that prevent future mold growth. We are so confident in our mold removal system that we guarantee our work!
One of our goals is to educate consumers about mold through our blog. We are often called by people who are concerned that they may have black mold growing in their homes or businesses. Please don’t panic! We are here to help and are just a phone call away, 470-545-4467!
One of the most common questions we encounter pertains to black mold. The purpose of this article is to explain what black mold is, why it grows, and the potential health consequences of exposure.
What Is Black Mold?
What Is Black Mold?
Stachybotrys molds decay organic matter. The most common species, Stachybotrys chartarum, sometimes referred to as Stachybotrys atra often grows indoors.
Ideal conditions for Stachybotrys growth include moisture, a nutrient/food source, temperature, and time. Ideal humidity for this black mold is a relative humidity of 90% or higher for it to begin the germination growth process. Stachybotrys feeds on materials with a high cellulose content such as hay, straw, wood chips, and building materials such as ceiling tile, drywall, paper vapor barriers, wallpaper, insulation backing, cardboard boxes, and paper files.
Stachybotrys is considered the King of Molds because it will develop into the dominant mold group if the conditions are favorable and will crowd out the other molds that began feeding on the material first.
This happens because unlike other molds like Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Cladosporium which begin growing within one to two days, Stachybotrys takes one to two weeks to begin growing.
Don’t Disturb Black Mold!
Don’t Disturb Black Mold!
When Stachybotrys mold is growing on wet material, the spores do not disperse as easily because the spores are held together by a sticky/slimy coating. However, when the material dries out or is disturbed, the spores will spread through the air.
The main concern of a mold remediation contractor is to prevent the spread of toxic black mold. The most effective method of doing this is through containment, which is the process of creating a poly barrier around the area where the Stachybotrys mold is growing.
This procedure is so important because Stachybotrys spreads by releasing spores. Mold contaminated materials must be removed and disposed of because this mold does not just grow on the surface of the material; it has root-like tendrils called mycelia, meaning it is able to penetrate the surface.
Typically Stachybotry mold grows in clusters at the end of stem-like structures known as hyphae.
Stachybotrys black mold is a health concern because animal studies have shown that one of the major effects of trichothecenes is immuno-suppression.
In fact, even low level exposure can suppress the immune system resulting in bacterial and viral infections, coughing, skin irritation, and other allergic reactions, and there is some speculation that it may even cause cancer.
Listed below are the top 15 health conditions caused when toxic Stachybotrys black mold is inhaled or ingested:
Sore/hoarse throat
Cold and flu symptoms (headaches, slight fever, and muscle aches)
Nosebleeds
Tingling or burning of nose, mouth, and perspiration areas (under the arms or between the legs)
During this period we have encountered many questions about mold and the impact it can have on health.
Listed below are the top 15 questions we have encountered with links to articles that provide detailed answers.
#1 Why is Stachybotrys Mold A Health Concern?
Why is Stachybotrys Mold A Health Concern?
You often hear about black mold in the media. Why is it such a big deal? Can black mold actually make you sick? This article explains why!
#2 Why Do Some People Get Sick From Mold And Others Do Not?
Why Do Some People Get Sick From Mold And Others Do Not?
The challenge mold poses is that it impacts everyone differently. This article explains why!
#3 What Is The Link Between Mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
What Is The Link Between Mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Considering the similarity of symptoms between those suffering from ME/CFS and those suffering from CIRS, it is likely that many individuals diagnosed with ME/CFS may have been exposed to mycotoxins produced by mold growth. Learn more!
#4 Is Mold Sickness A Hidden Epidemic?
Is Mold Sickness A Hidden Epidemic?
Since so many health professionals are not aware of the health problems mold causes, many mold advocates believe that it is a hidden epidemic. In short, you could be sick from mold and not even know it. Learn more!
#5 Does Mold Cause Sinus Infections?
Does Mold Cause Sinus Infections?
Chronic sinusitis costs the health care system more than 8 billion dollars each year. The cause is most likely mold, meaning most of the treatments prescribed are not effective. Learn more!
#6 Could Some People Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis Actually Be Suffering From Mold Sickness?
Could Some People Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis Actually Be Suffering From Mold Sickness?
Dr. Rick Sponaugle of the Florida Detox & Wellness Institute strongly believes that environmental factors, such as mold, could be a cause of MS because mold toxins destroy the myelin sheath on brain neurons, causing the classic white spots seen in MS. Learn more!
#7 How Do I Know If Mold Is Making Me Sick?
How Do I Know If Mold Is Making Me Sick?
Most people do not even know they are sick because of mold and or suffering from Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). Learn more!
#8 Are Dead Mold Spores Harmful?
Are Dead Mold Spores Harmful?
There is a lot of bad information on the internet. One of the most prevalent myths is that you can kill mold. This article explains why this is not a good idea and why it can impact your health. Learn more!
#9 Why Does Mold Cause Depression?
Why Does Mold Cause Depression?
Doctor Ackerley believes there is a strong correlation between mold and brain health, particularly depression and suicide. Learn more!
#10 Does Mold Cause Parkinson’s Disease?
Does Mold Cause Parkinson’s Disease?
Recent research suggests that that biologic compounds such as mold have the potential to damage dopamine and cause Parkinson’s symptoms. Learn more!
#11 Why Is Mold A Health Concern?
Why Is Mold A Health Concern?
Mold is nature’s recycler meaning it is designed to break down dead, organic material. Now, imagine, what happens when you have mold growing in your home. It is breaking down the material it is feeding on. Since we spend up to 90 percent of our time indoors this creates a situation ripe for health issues. Learn more!
Four studies demonstrate a strong link between mold and asthma. Learn more!
#14 Does Mold Affect Pregnant Women and Infants?
Does Mold Affect Pregnant Women and Infants?
This is a difficult topic to research, but there is some evidence that mold could have an impact. Learn more!
#15 Can Mold Poison Me?
Can Mold Poison Me?
There is evidence that toxins and poisons released by growing mold can harm one’s immune system and cause severe sickness. Learn more!
Got Mold and Health Questions?
If you are concerned about mold and think that it may be impacting your health, please do not hesitate to contact us because we specialize in helping mold sensitized individuals. Our team of professionals looks forward to serving you. Peace of mind is just a phone call away, 678-697-6267!
