The health effects resulting from mold exposure vary. Some individuals may experience no symptoms at all, while others may develop them. It is important to educate families regarding current knowledge about the health effects of mold, given the abundance of alarmist information circulating online (much of which lacks a scientific basis). Presented below are several health issues linked to mold exposure (in non-occupational settings), along with key peer-reviewed articles where more detailed information can be found:
- Allergy Symptoms: Children may experience allergic symptoms following exposure to mold. These symptoms include nasal congestion or runny nose, dry throat, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or a dry cough.
- Asthma: Mold can be an asthma trigger in some children. Research suggests that living in damp environments may increase the likelihood of a child developing asthma (see resources below).
- Other Uncommon Symptoms: In rare instances, exposure to mold may be associated with other serious conditions. These include hypersensitivity pneumonitis or local or systemic infections. Such cases are uncommon in individuals who are otherwise in good health; they typically occur in people with compromised immune systems or underlying lung conditions, such as cystic fibrosis.
Families may also have concerns regarding mycotoxins. These are substances produced by certain types of mold. You are likely familiar with mycotoxins in the context of the food supply, such as in grains and dried beans. Some mycotoxins—such as aflatoxin and ochratoxin A—have been identified as harmful to human health; these can be present in the food supply when crops develop mold. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates mycotoxins in food intended for human consumption to ensure that products sold to consumers are not contaminated. Families may express concern about the possibility of inhaling mycotoxins, as well as the harmful effects this could have on their health. Aside from the foregoing, there is limited research regarding the health effects resulting from the inhalation of mycotoxins (6). Furthermore, families may inquire about testing to detect mycotoxins or other mold analyses. Such testing is not recommended, as it lacks clinical validation; consequently, interpreting the results can be difficult, and the cost to families is high. For more information, please visit the FDA website (see the Additional Resources section).
Generally speaking, it is important to emphasize to families that it is essential to eliminate any mold present inside the home and to address the cause(s) giving rise to humidity or excess moisture in the domestic environment.