Warning Signs of Mold Toxicity

Just the word, “mold,” sounds ominous. That’s because it is. Mold in your home is not just unsightly; it’s a serious health hazard and a common household problem affecting millions. Mold toxicity can occur without a homeowner even knowing they have a mold problem, so it’s critical to understand the warning signs of mold toxicity.

Mold toxicity occurs when certain types of molds produce mycotoxins, which can irritate the respiratory system, immune system, and other organs when inhaled. When people are exposed to mycotoxins over a period of time, they can develop health issues, especially people with asthma, allergies and a weak immune system.

Wet environments, such as in bathrooms or kitchens, are breeding grounds for mold growth. Likewise, if water damage has occurred in a home, mold can grow quickly if the affected area is not properly cleaned and sanitized during the mold remediation process.

The warning signs of mold toxicity are different depending on the type of mold. Many different types of molds can grow in a home, and not all molds are toxic, but these five can pose a health risk:

1. Stachybotrys Chartarum: The most notorious mold, also known as “black mold,” Stachybotrys can grow on drywall, paper, wood and other damp products. This fungus can cause a wide variety of health issues including allergies, headache, cough, body aches, fever, and more.
2. Aspergillus: One of the most common molds, Aspergillus is typically found in moist environments such as bathrooms, attics and kitchens, and can cause upper respiratory issues.
3. Alternaria: Another common mold found in homes, Alternaria grows in damp insulation and carpeting, or on windowsills, and can affect those with allergies or asthma.
4. Cladosporium: While Cladosporium typically doesn’t produce mycotoxins, it can still cause respiratory issues in some people, and is found in materials such as upholstery, carpeting and curtains.
5. Penicillium: Not to be confused with Penicillin, Penicillium is also found in materials and can cause a variety of reactions from allergies to more serious symptoms.

Once black mold spores land on a damp surface, they can grow and release mycotoxins into the air, creating a hazardous environment when inhaled. Prolonged exposure to mycotoxins can make symptoms worse, so it’s important to watch for these signs of mold growth:

• Damp Odor: A strong, musty smell in your home, especially in damp areas or where water damage has occurred, is a good indication of black mold growth.
• Dark Stains: Materials, such as walls, ceilings or carpeting, that begin to discolor with dark stains could indicate black mold, especially if the surfaces are damp.
• Visible Growth: If you see black or dark green patches that are wet and growing on damp surfaces, you probably have a black mold problem.
• Health Symptoms: Exposure to black mold can cause prolonged respiratory issues, allergic reactions, sinus congestion, headaches, rashes and itching, fatigue, and even neurological symptoms.

If one or more of the above warning signs are present in your home, it’s best to call in the professionals. Mold cleanup is not a DIY project and requires special equipment and strong, antibacterial solutions to successfully eliminate it. And since mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 hours after water damage occurs, it’s imperative to act quickly.

If you suspect mold in your home, contact Restoration by Highmark immediately. Our team of IICRC-certified technicians will inspect your home for visible signs of mold, including hidden spaces such as behind and beneath surfaces. Moisture meters are used to check surface-level dampness. If mold growth is detected, our technicians will contain and remove all affected materials before deodorizing and sanitizing the area to ensure the mold growth is stopped and removed. After the mold remediation process, our team will test the environment to confirm the mold has been fully remediated. These steps can help ensure your home stays a healthy, safe environment.