What Effect Can Mold in a House Have on a Person?
Mold exists everywhere, both indoor and outdoors. Because people are exposed to it every day, it does not pose a serious health risk. However, if you are exposed to too much mold at one time or are allergic to it, you may become sick.
-
Factors
-
Mold has a different effect on each person. The symptoms of mold are dependent on how much a person inhales or touches, and whether she is sensitive or allergic to it.
Allergies
-
Allergic reactions to mold include coughing, sneezing, nose and eye irritation, and rashes. Mold also cause asthma attacks.
-
mVOCs
-
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, microbial volatile compounds, also known as mVOCs, are compounds produced by fungi that are released into the air. They can induce dizziness, headaches, and irritation and nausea.
Mycotoxins
-
Some mold species can produce potent metabolites called mycotoxins. They are also dangerous but are not always present.
Allergy Testing
-
There are two ways to determine if you have mold allergies: blood testing and skin testing. Skin testing is usually preferred because the results are found more quickly and the test is less costly.
-
References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Chris Griffith
