Brain Problems From Black Mold
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Mold Growth
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Mold feeds on such products as paper and paper products, ceiling tiles, cardboard, and wood and wood-based products. Mold comes in from the outside through open doorways, windows, heating and ventilation systems, and air conditioning with outdoor air intakes. In addition, mold spores can attach themselves to people and animals and be brought inside.
Stachybotrys Chartarum
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Stachybotrys chartarum, also called Stachybotrys atra, is a type of black mold. Stachybotrys chartarum is less common than other molds, but it is not rare. Stachybotrys chartarum produces a macrocyclic trichothecene mycotoxin called Satratoxin G (SC), which is the agent responsible for possible brain damage from exposure to black mold.
Olfactory Sensory Neurons
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Satratoxin G affects the olfactory sensory neurons in the olfactory epithelium by inducing apoptosis, or cell death. This in turn results in the destruction of the sense of smell, as well as damage to the frontal part of the brain. In a 2006 study by Michigan State University, rats exposed to Satratoxin G developed rhinitis, which is inflammation of the nasal passages. This also resulted in the inflammation of the olfactory bulb.
Respiratory Problems
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In addition to the problems with the brain and olfactory sensory neurons, evidence suggests that exposure to Satratoxin G can also lead to a respiratory disorder called pulmonary hemorrhage. In the Cleveland area in the mid 1990s, a number of infants suffered pulmonary hemorrhage after exposure to black mold, resulting in the death of some of the children.
Prevention
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Keeping your house or apartment dry and at low humidity can discourage mold from growing. To clean any mold found, use either commercial products, soap and water or a bleach solution of one cup bleach to one gallon water. (See Reference 1)
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