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Toxic Mold Poisoning Symptoms

There are many types of mold; most are harmless. However, there are some molds that can grow in your home and pose dangerous health risks to you and your family. These have been termed "toxic molds," although the molds themselves are not toxic. They produce metabolites that produce toxins called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are a serious health risk. Several toxic mold poisoning symptoms can lead to cancer, heart problems, chronic bronchitis, learning disabilities and more.

  1. Most Dangerous Molds

    • Stachybotrys chartarum and Chaetomium are the most dangerous molds. They lead to severe illnesses such as multiple sclerosis, bleeding lungs or autoimmune disease.

    Mold Growth

    • Mold grows in moist areas that contain oxygen and something to feed on. In homes, these places are bathrooms, damp basements, refrigerator drip trays or where there has been a plumbing leak; the most dangerous place is in flooring and walls.

    Mental Symptoms

    • Symptoms of toxic mold poisoning are numerous and can also be symptoms of another disorder. You may have more than one symptom. Mental symptoms are anxiety, memory loss, personality disorders and mood swings.

    Physical Symptoms

    • Like the mental symptoms, the physical symptoms can be caused by toxic mold poisoning or by other disorders. These symptoms are tremors, sore throat, cough, rectal bleeding, nosebleeds, abdominal pain, headaches and pain in the extremities.

    Protection

    • Protecting a home from mold requires repairing any water problems quickly, checking for water stains, keeping the humidity level low and keeping sprinklers from hitting the siding of your home. For small areas of mold, it's recommended to clean with bleach and water; for large areas, a toxic mold expert should be contacted.

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