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Testing & Treatment for Mold-Related Illness

Molds proliferate in any space that provides oxygen and nourishment, such as dried leaves, weeds, a rotting bark, grass and any shady area with high moisture. Molds also dwell inside homes---in damp and/or warm places such as bathrooms, attics, closets and basements, and even wood flooring and ceilings---not only causing damage to the structure but also triggering allergies and diseases in people exposed to it.

  1. Mold-Related Illnesses

    • According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), molds in your home contribute to production of airborne toxins, causing headaches, allergies, eye irritation, respiratory problems such as coughing and asthma, flu-like symptoms and sore throats.

    Testing Methods

    • The NIH recommends indoor mold tests if you suspect molds play a role in your health. Three main methods reliably collect samples for laboratory analysis, to measure the presence and type of mold in your home. The bulk sampling method involves collecting items that potentially contain mold, such as sheets of paper, wood, soil, carpet or cloth. The swab sampling method uses a sterile swab moistened with water and swiped across surfaces on which mold appears. Tape sampling requires sticking a piece of tape on a household surface before placing the tape on a slide for lab testing. Dust sampling, a new method "still being evaluated for its effectiveness," according to the NIH, involves collecting dust through a special vacuum.

    Treatment

    • Installing an air-filtration unit helps clear the air to decrease mold indoors and to treat any mold-related illness, reports the Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI), which recommends an ionic or HEPA-certified filter. Regularly wipe furniture, vacuum carpets, and change and wash sheets and pillowcases to prevent the accumulation of dust and mold.

      To treat allergies, the ICSI recommends non-sedating antihistamines or corticosteroids. Nasal sprays with corticosteroids---available by prescription only---help reduce your reactions to mold. Leukotriene modifiers, anti-inflammatory drugs that work to reduce symptoms of mold-related illnesses, may be of use as well. Consult your physician if you suspect mold is making you ill.

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