Q:	What are the signs and symptoms of mold exposure? What should I do if I've been exposed to a lot of mold?
	Dee/Iowa

 

A:

Most people have no reaction to mold (mildew). But in people who are sensitive to mold, exposure to it can cause: Sneezing Stuffy nose Coughing Skin rash Asthma attacks in people with asthma Mold is very common. Mold spores travel through the air and may be present throughout the year. Indoor mold grows in damp places such as basements and bathrooms. Outdoor mold lives on plants and in compost and soil. Small amounts of indoor mold, such as mildew on a shower curtain, aren't a serious concern. But that doesn't mean you should let mold grow in your house. To minimize mold exposure: Keep humidity in your house below 50 percent. Use a dehumidifier if needed. Clean or discard moldy or mildewed items. Disinfect bathrooms and basement walls with a disinfectant solution such as diluted bleach. Increase ventilation and air movement by opening doors and windows, when practical. Use fans as needed. Large mold infestations can usually be seen or smelled. But sometimes your home may smell musty, and you can't see the mold. Mold may hide in places such as: Behind drywall, wallpaper, paneling or ceiling tiles Under carpets and pads Inside walls around pipes and inside ductwork If you think you have a hidden mold problem, consider hiring an experienced professional to investigate and, if needed, correct the problem. Rarely, some molds can produce toxic substances called mycotoxins. Health effects of breathing mycotoxins aren't clearly understood and are currently under study. The term black mold usually refers to the mold Stachybotrys chartarum, a greenish-black mold, which can result from heavy water damage. Known health effects of stachybotrys are similar to those of other common molds. There's no conclusive evidence indicating that black mold is associated with more severe health problems than other forms of mold.  Not all mold that appears black is stachybotrys. Only a few molds are truly black. Excessive or chronic exposure to airborne molds, usually associated with certain occupations such as agricultural work, has been associated with illnesses such as farmer's lung. But this is rare. Severe reactions may include fever and shortness of breath. A blood or skin allergy test can confirm a diagnosis of mold allergy. If you're exposed to a large amount of mold, it's important to eliminate the exposure as soon as possible. If you develop severe or persistent signs and symptoms, see your doctor. By Mayo Clinic staff

 
For additional information, contact:
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