Most people aren't sensitive to mold, but those who are can suffer short-term and chronic health impacts from environmental mold exposure. The reproductive fungal spores of indoor-growing colonies can reach high distributions in the enclosed air spaces of homes and other buildings. This poor air quality poses special threats to people with mold allergies, respiratory ailments or weakened immune systems. Their symptoms will persist or worsen until mold removal or a change of environment prevents them from inhaling significant amounts of allergenic fungal spores.
Eye and Skin Inflammation
In the presence of allergens, mold allergies cause the body to release histamines, which are inflammatory chemicals that create several side effects. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, eye and skin irritation commonly result. Patients with mold allergies may experience itching in the mucous membranes of the eyes and topical itching of the skin. Redness or a rash can form, especially when touching mold. Otherwise healthy people may have only temporary discomfort. As UMMC points out, contact with mold causes allergic conjunctivitis in those prone to eye infection or skin eczema conditions in people who have atopic dermatitis.
Respiratory Inflammation
Histamines may also inflict itching on the nose and mouth following mold exposure. Health impacts of nasal and sinus inflammation range from runny and stuffy nose to severe coughing and wheezing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that individuals who have both mold allergies and asthma can suffer from sudden asthma attacks, requiring immediate medication or emergency medical treatment. Furthermore, the CDC notes that children may have increased risk for respiratory illness due to inhaled mold allergens.
Fungal Infection
Fungal infections of the lungs or sinuses, also called aspergillosis, can result from mold exposure in people with certain health conditions. According to the CDC and Mayo Clinic, lungs weakened by asthma, cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder may host mold infections. The sinuses and lungs of patients with cancer, recent organ transplants or HIV virus also risk infection in moldy environments. Health impacts include a potentially fatal spread of infection through the body or invasive surgical removal of fungal masses.
Lung Damage
Long-term, high-level mold exposure creates an aggravated state of inflammation in the airways, or hypersensitivity pneumonitis, the CDC reports. UMMC notes that this condition often accompanies occupational exposure while handling hay or grain, yeast or plant materials that house mold. If left untreated, chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis can result in permanent health impacts such as lung tissue damage and breathing restriction.
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