Mold may be gross and destructive, but it isn't a given that it will make you sick. The Centers for Disease Control point out that mold itself isn't always problematic. Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of household mold responsible for most mold-related illnesses. People with certain allergies, lung diseases ,and asthma are at the highest risk of side effects from prolonged exposure to this and other types of mold. Mold also causes property damage, and leads to hefty removal and repair costs.
Respiratory Problems
If you live in a home with mold growth, you might experience respiratory problems according to the Centers for Disease Control. Healthy people who regularly breath in certain types of mold might experience coughing and wheezing. People who are easily susceptible to pneumonia may experience increased pneumonia infections from regular mold exposure. Respiratory discomfort occurs in both adults and children. In severe cases, mold exposure leads to upper respiratory infections on otherwise healthy people.
Asthma
Mold exposure can cause asthma in people who have never had it before, according to the World Health Organization. It can also aggravate asthma in children and adults with the condition. Mold exposure can lead to increased need for asthma medications due to increased asthma attacks or bronchial inflammation. For asthma suffers with mold allergies, allergic reactions can trigger asthma attacks or bring on allergy-induced asthma.
Other Side Effects
Allergy symptoms aren't always respiratory. Mold exposure can cause watery eyes and skin rashes. People with severe mold allergies may experience throat swelling or closing, shortness of breath, or anaphylaxis. Those with comprised immune systems or certain lung diseases may be at increased risk of opportunistic lung infections. In these individuals, mold can actually lead to fungus in the lungs.
Household Damage and Repair Costs
If mold is affecting your health, you'll likely have to deal with non-health related side effects. Mold can cause costly property damage to your home. Professional mold removal is also costly, and might require removing significant portions of your home's drywall, carpet, or wood. The Centers for Disease Control note that you'll likely also have to contend with the source of moisture that contributed to mold growth. This means examining your plumbing, and determining if you have any leaks or structural problems that cause excess moisture in your home.
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