Symptoms of Mold Exposure & Mycotoxins
Molds and mycotoxins can be found indoors and outdoors, especially around warm, damp and decaying matter. While some people are more sensitive to them than others, exposure can cause serious, even terminal, health problems. This article details symptoms of mold exposure and mycotoxins and outlines treatments.
Background
Molds are fungi that grow in multicellular groups, unlike single-celled yeast. They reproduce through spores, which are hardy and can survive extreme environmental conditions. They can be found in all parts of the world.
Identification
While mold can be tested to determine its exact species, this does not normally affect the kind of treatment one receives as a result of exposure. The person, not the mold, is the primary factor in determining health risks because most problems relate to allergies. Mycotoxins, themselves, are colorless and odorless.
Symptoms
The symptoms of mold and mycotoxin exposure vary greatly among individuals. They most often take the form of an allergic reaction. Some symptoms include headaches, chills, fever, sore throat, coughing, congestion, skin rashes, skin lesions, nose bleeds, fatigue, depression, diarrhea, blood in feces or urine, abdominal pain, altered breathing and compromised immunity.
Treatment
In mild cases, removal of the mold as described below might lead to an individual's recovery. In more severe cases, especially those involving mycotoxins that have contaminated animal or human food and even the air, a doctor should be consulted immediately. The earlier diagnoses and treatment begins, the more likely it is to be effective. In the case of extreme exposure, long-term health effects, including cancer, might occur.
Prevention/Solution
People sensitive to mold should avoid compost piles, cut grass and wooded areas. Inside, mold growth can be slowed by maintaining humidity levels between 40 percent and 60 percent. Consider using a dehumidifier during humid months. Clean bathrooms regularly with mold-killing products. Do not carpet bathrooms or basements. Soap and water can be used to remove small patches of mold. A stronger solution can be made from bleach and water, at a ratio of one cup bleach for each gallon of water. If that route is taken, wear protective gloves and goggles, ventilate the area and follow the manufacturer's instructions on the bottle. Consult a specialist to aid in the removal of large patches of mold.
Tags: Mold Exposure, Mold Exposure Mycotoxins, patches mold, symptoms mold, Symptoms Mold Exposure