Signs & Symptoms of Mold in Humans

Exposure to mold growth in the home, the school or the workplace can have detrimental health-related side effects. Ranging from mild to severe, the symptoms can include allergic reactions, respiratory problems and chronic infections.

Allergic Reactions

• Common symptoms of an allergic reaction to mold, as defined by the New York State Department of Health, are red, itchy eyes, nasal and sinus congestion, throat irritation, skin rash and headaches.

Respiratory Effects

• Mold exposure can lead to respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing. These symptoms are usually mild and do not develop into serious infections.

Infection

• Though the risk of mold-induced infection, known as invasive aspergillosis, is minimal, some symptoms include fever, body aches, bloody cough and chest pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, these symptoms are generally experienced by people with existing chronic lung disease or compromised immune systems.

Misconceptions

• Although the term "toxic mold" is often used to refer to molds that produce harmful effects, the mold itself is not toxic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, these molds produce the same types of allergic and respiratory symptoms that all indoor molds can inflict.

Risk Factors

• Those with the highest risk for developing mold-related symptoms include infants, the elderly, people suffering from chronic lung illnesses, such as emphysema, and patients with compromised immune systems stemming from HIV/AIDS or chemotherapy treatments.

Considerations

• Molds grow and reproduce in places that provide sufficient moisture, warmth and organic material. In the home, bathrooms are particularly susceptible, and leaky ceilings and walls provide a breeding ground for mold. To prevent mold growth, eliminate any moisture problems in the home, and clean existing mold with a bleach solution.