According to a 2016 research, 10 to 50% of indoor living spaces globally host large amounts of mold growth. Those who are allergic to mold or who suffer from respiratory conditions like asthma may also experience symptoms when exposed to mold spores.
In rare cases, some people may need medical treatment due to mold exposure, but there’s no proof that detoxing from mold is necessary or effective. This article covers the potential health effects of mold and recommended treatment measures.
What Are The Symptoms of Mold Exposure?
Mold exposure is likely to result in symptoms if you have:
● Mold allergy or sensitivity
● Hay fever
● Asthma or other respiratory conditions
Some common symptoms include:
● Wheezing
● Runny nose
● Coughing
● Watery eyes
● Irritated skin
● Nasal congestion
How Can Mold Affect Your Health?
Mold exposure can affect your health in the following ways:
Allergies
You might show signs of an allergic reaction if you have mold sensitivity. However, research emphasizes that it can be difficult to distinguish between mold allergies and sensitivity to other common allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a lung infection that can be caused by mold in rare cases. According to 2021 research, the following people have a higher chance of developing mold-induced pneumonia:
● Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy
● People taking medications that suppress the immune system.
● People who have received a bone marrow transplant or an organ
Asthma
According to 2017 research, exposure to mold or dampness as an infant can be linked with developing asthma and experiencing persistent asthma as a teen. However, more studies are needed to determine the possible causal link between mold and asthma.
Asthma can also increase sensitivity to things that irritate your respiratory system, such as:
● Strong scents
● Air pollution
● Cold weather
Brain Health
One animal study discovered that exposure to toxic and nontoxic mold spores interfered with brain cell production in mice. This could lead to issues such as:
● Slow reaction time
● Memory loss
● Vision issues
● Difficulty processing emotions
That said, more studies are needed before making definite claims on the connection between mold exposure and cognitive functions.
How To Address Mold Exposure
You can treat mold exposure in the following ways:
● Antifungal medications: If your immune system is weak or if you have an infection, your doctor may recommend an antifungal medicine like voriconazole, according to a 2015 review.
● Allergy Shots: While no strong studies support their use for treating mold exposure, allergy shots can be used to reduce symptoms if mold allergies are causing common allergic reactions.
● OTC Medications: Taking an antihistamine or using a nasal spray can reduce mild allergic symptoms and discomfort caused by mold exposure.
Conclusion
People with asthma, immune conditions, and allergies will likely develop symptoms with mold exposure. You must consult your healthcare professional once you notice any symptoms that might be mold-related.
