Mold exposure long-term effects can be devastating. Memory loss, insomnia, anxiety, depression, trouble concentrating, and confusion, just to name a few of the long-term effects of mold exposure. Mold growth is more prevalent than most people realize.

At least 45 million buildings in the United States have unhealthy levels of mold. (1) This is problematic for families, especially infants. Those who are exposed to mold at home have three times the risk of developing asthma as those who do not experience mold exposure during the first year of life. (2)

What are the Health Effects of Mold Exposure

People with undiagnosed mold allergies may not even realize that persistent sneezing and runny nose are caused by indoor mold. Some people experience shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, sinus infections, and other health problems, and yet the cause is not always apparent. 

Toxic mold can cause a serious allergic reaction in some, while others go on with no symptoms at all. It can be difficult to diagnose considering it mimics a variety of other illnesses. 

The inflammatory response that occurs as the effects of mold exposure can cause a cascade of other negative health effects, including memory loss, anxiety, depression, and infertility. (3) When a person who has Lyme disease is exposed to mold mycotoxins it can cause severe mold illness.

Symptoms include:

* Joint pain, muscle aches, pain, stiffness* Fatigue, weakness* Coughing, shortness of breath* Hay Fever like symptoms, sore throat* Nosebleeds* Headaches, migraine* Stomach pain, leaky gut* Eye irritation - watery, burning, stinging, itchy eyes* Skin irritation

Black mold can cause a variety of health conditions even when occupants are unaware that it exists. Exposure to mold spores puts healthy people, including children and pets at increased risk of fungal infections. 

As Michael mentions in the podcast, all family members may be exposed to mold toxins from the same source of mold and some will experience a decline in wellness, while others will have no symptoms. Blood tests can show if you have side effects of exposure to toxic black mold. Ask your healthcare provider to perform tests. 

For example, my doctor used Vital Wellness Heavy Metals test which is very extensive and shows a variety of mold exposures. *see my results in the screenshot below

No matter what, it is important to avoid black mold exposure to prevent the risk of health issues. Avoid water leaks by inspecting your home on a yearly basis. 

Cleaning mold and mildew with bleach may remove visible mold, but keep in mind that the roots of black mold, called hyphae, can extend further into the drywall or other surfaces than you can see with the naked eye. 

Mold removal by a professional will reduce the health risk to you and your family. 

According to the CDC, controlling dampness is crucial to the prevention of moldy areas in your home.

Keep humidity levels as low as you can—between 30% and 50%–all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.

Guest Michael Rubino

Michael Rubino, The Mold Medic, is the authority on mold remediation.

Michael Rubino,