 Molds adversely affect human health
through three processes: allergy, infection and
toxicity. Approximately 10% of Americans are allergic to
Cladosporiun, the dominant species in outdoor air
(Horner et al. 1995). Recent studies of hospital
admissions in relation to outdoor mold ascribes
approximately 2% of emergency admissions to
hospitals for asthma as being associated with mold
spores present in outdoor air and a further 6% to Basidiospores and Ascomycete spores (Dales et al.
2000). Toxic mold syndrome is often the term used to describe various symptoms and illnesses linked to exposure of certain mold spores and the various chemicals produced by these certain types of molds.
The Environmental Protection Agency, (EPA), sponsored a
meeting in 1998, on mold and health, attended by 15
scientists, (mostly physicians), from 8 countries.
It concluded, “exposure to mold may constitute a
health threat… resulting in respiratory symptoms in
both upper and lower airways, an increased incidence
of infections, and skin symptoms. Allergy either to
mold or other indoor agents also presents a health
risk. At very high mold exposure levels, nose
bleeds, hemoptysis and pulmonary hemorrhage have
been documented”. This is a rare consensus of
government and independent officials regarding
health risks caused by exposure to indoor mold.
TERS experts understand the health risks associated with mold exposure and/or toxic mold syndrome. In addition to our expertise in mold, and black toxic mold, we are also indoor air quality testing and water and fire damage restoration professionals.
Health Symptoms of Mold Exposure and/or Toxic Mold Syndrome
Mold Exposure Symptoms:
| • |
Allergen reaction, |
• |
Nose bleeds |
| • |
Pulmonary hemorrhage or pulmonary hemosiderosis (primarily in infants) |
• |
Immune system suppression (resulting in
increasing numbers of infections |
| • |
Chronic fatigue |
• |
Dermatitis |
| • |
Hair loss |
|
Headaches |
| • |
Sore throats |
• |
Burning" eyes |
| • |
Flu-like symptoms |
• |
Blurred vision |
| • |
Cognitive disorders |
• |
Shortness of breath |
| • |
Respiratory illness i.e. bronchitis |
• |
Chest pains, chest tightness |
| • |
Breathing problems |
• |
Dry cough |
| • |
Wheezing |
• |
Aggravated asthma |
| • |
Nasal congestion |
• |
Asthma complications |
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