Warning Signs of Toxic Mold Exposure

We've all heard about the dangers of black mold and its toxicity in the news. We know that living with black mold can make our families and pets ill. What may be most important, though, is what we don't know. Do you know how to recognize the symptoms of black mold exposure?

Many people suffer from black mold exposure and don't know it. They attribute their symptoms to other causes like the common head cold or the flu. Physicians often make the same mistake, particularly in the beginning stages of exposure. Once you have inhaled or ingested mold spores, mold actually continues to grow inside of your body. It is therefore very important that you visit your physician if you think you have been or are being exposed to black mold.

Symptoms of black mold exposure are categorized into three levels. These are:

Level I

At this level, symptoms are almost identical to the common head cold or allergies. They include:

- Sneezing

- Itchy and/or watery eyes

- Headache

- Skin irritations and/or itchy skin

It is because these symptoms can have their root cause in so many illnesses that black mold toxicity is not often thought of.

Level II

These symptoms occur after either extended mold exposure. They include:

- Nose bleeds

- Nausea

- Diarrhea

- Vomiting

- Persistent headaches

- Constant fatigue

- Weight and hair loss

- Short term memory loss

- Swollen glands

- Ear infections

- Chronic sinus infections

- Chronic bronchitis

- Joint and/or muscle pain

Again, these symptoms can be attributed to many illnesses. You may experience only one of these symptoms or a combination of several. If you've not already, you should start to wonder if you could possibly be living with a species of mold in your home. If you live in an older home, a multiple dwelling or have recently had a flood, the possibility is very real.

Level III

- Blindness

- Long term memory loss

- Bleeding in the lungs

- Irreversible brain damage

- Cancer

- Death

The symptoms are related to long-term, consistent exposure to black mold and other species of mold.

As you can see, the symptoms of exposure to mold are vast and varied. Most people don't run to their doctor for every little sniffle but if you know that you have mold in your home, a sniffle is the perfect reason to visit your physician. Be sure to tell your health care provider that you suspect or know that there is mold in your home so that they can start you on the proper course of treatment.