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Symptoms of Mold Exposure
 Kate Greenwood
Mold and mold spores are an ever-present part of the environment, both indoors and out. Mold that occurs outdoors is usually harmless, but mold that creeps into your living space can adversely affect your health. Household mold is more commonly seen in wetter, more humid areas than locales with a drier climate. Children, the elderly, and people with respiratory disease or chronic illness are more vulnerable to mold exposure than those who enjoy better general health.
Short-term exposure to mold often mimics the symptoms of what are commonly known as seasonal allergies. Mold symptoms to be aware of include unexplained headaches, labored breathing, shortness of breath, skin irritation, and chronic congestion with runny nose. Coughing, flu-like complaints, unusual sensitivity to light, and eye irritation are also symptomatic of mold allergies.
Mold exposure over a longer period of time causes symptoms such as excessive fatigue and tiredness, unexplained body aches, and occasional or chronic wheezing that occurs either with or without shortness of breath. Running a fever is also not uncommon. In some cases the nervous system is adversely affected, leading to short-term memory loss and speech difficulties. In rare instances the person may also undergo dramatic changes in personality and mood.
When left unchecked, mold can release mycotoxins into the air that are extremely hazardous for humans to breathe in. People who have been exposed to mold over long periods of time can exhibit symptoms of toxicity, the most dangerous tier of mold symptoms. These symptoms can include weight loss, diarrhea, bloody nose, sore throat, bronchitis, and aches and pains. In some cases, forgetfulness and long-term memory loss have been noted.
The best way to avoid mold infestation is to keep your home environment clean, and even more importantly, dry. Any potential mold symptoms should be reported to a physician immediately, as early detection and treatment is vital.
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