Lung Problems Caused by Mold

Black mold inhalation can adversely affect the lungs, causing deterioration of the tissues, bleeding and respiratory infections. Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as the elderly, infants, those suffering from immune deficiency diseases, and people with pre-existing lung conditions such as asthma, emphysema and chronic bronchitis, are particularly at risk for developing black mold lung problems.

Identification

• Black mold has a slimy consistency and is greenish-black in color. It may appear as discoloration on walls, ceilings and wood, or as mildew stains on furnishings, textiles and carpets. Black mold gives off a musty odor and spreads quickly, thriving in areas that collect moisture. It also tends to accumulate in hidden spaces such as cabinetry, heating and cooling systems, drywall, appliances, vents, air ducts, gutters and beneath flooring.

Potential

• Black mold is an environmental inhalant that travels through the air and enters the body through the nose, eyes and mouth. Prolonged inhalation of black mold can result in an array of lung problems and health conditions, including itchy or watery eyes, congestion, runny nose, sneezing, scratchy or sore throat, coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue and eczema.

Effects

• Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lower-respiratory system,and its symptoms of asthma can be triggered by allergies, exercise and an array of environmental inhalants such as dust, pet dander, pollen and mold---all of which could irritate the airways and cause bronchial spasms. Inhalation of black mold spores causes lung tissues in sensitive individuals to swell, producing mucus blockages in the airways that constrict breathing and increase the likelihood of an attack.

Considerations

• Black mold is a common environmental allergen, which typically leads the body to release chemical histamines in response. Histamine production causes allergy symptoms of congestion, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath due to inflammation of the lungs. Black mold can cause health issues in asthmatics without allergies and in individuals who have not previously suffered from asthma or allergies.

Warning

• Aspergillosis is a broad category of lung diseases caused by mold inhalation. Severe asthma, respiratory infections and broncho-pulmonary allergies can develop with increased exposure to black mold. Lung problems occur when aspergillis black mold accumulates within air spaces found in the lungs, creating a fungal mass that leads to a condition called aspergilloma. Invasive aspergilloma can spread throughout the blood, causing lungs to bleed, affecting other organs, damaging bones and causing neurological complications such as memory loss and dementia. Continued inhalation of black mold can lead to varying forms of aspergillosis in predisposed individuals who have existing lung diseases, lung damage or immune-deficiency conditions.