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Signs and Symptoms of Mold Spores

Mold spores sometimes present themselves right out in the open, but other times they hide in walls, attics and other locations and are difficult to identify. Even if you cannot identify every sign and symptom of mold contamination, you can usually gain a firm indication with only a couple of signs. If you notice an infestation of mold inside your home, contact a mold removal specialist immediately.

  1. Excess Humidity

    • Mold breeds in humid environments, specifically where relative humidity exceeds 55 percent. If you live in a humid environment, understand that you have a higher-than-average likelihood for mold contamination, as spores become active when exposed to moisture.

    Liquid Discoloration

    • Active mold spores appear in a thick liquid form, but will vary in color based upon the type of mold present. Spores may appear black, brown, gray or dark green, and often appear thick or slimy.

    Powdery Substance

    • Inactive spores, as opposed to active spores, appear in a gray, brown or white powdery form, as they lack the necessary moisture to breed. For example, if you expose active mold to direct sunlight, the liquid will convert to a powdery, dry form.

    Musty Odor

    • Active and even inactive mold spores can produce a musty scent, best described as an aroma of sour air, which can engulf an entire room where spores are present. This odor can produce headaches, asthma attacks and other illnesses.

    Health Symptoms

    • The presence of mold in a home environment can produce symptoms that include nausea, allergic reactions, respiratory infections and other conditions. Toxic mold can even contribute to severe pathogenic infections and even certain forms of cancer.

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