Black mold is the common term for stachybotrys chartarum, a mold that grows inside buildings and on gypsum board, sheet rock, fiber board and other building material surfaces. Black mold requires moisture to grow, and this moisture can be a result of excess humidity or water ingress into a building. This type of water ingress typically causes visible water damage. Black mold is a fungus, which reproduces via spores and can become airborne. Fungi can also produce mycotoxins, which are toxins that can affect human health and can travel through the air with the spores.
Skin Exposure
According to the Washington State Department of Health, the toxic effects from low levels of exposure to black mold include rashes. These rashes can occur as the skin comes in contact with the airborne toxins.
Neurotoxic Signs and Symptoms
The Washington State Department of Health attributes neurotoxic signs and symptoms such as nausea, muscle pains and aches, fatigue and headaches to low levels of exposure to black mold. The long-term exposure effects of black mold have not been studied.
Immune System
The immune system may have a decreased ability to fight infection because of exposure to black mold. According to the American Phytopathological Society, black mold produces potent immunosuppressants.
Reported Signs and Symptoms
According to the American Phytopathological Society, residents of one home that was infested with black mold in 1986 reported signs and symptoms that included sore throats, repeated episodes of the flu and cold, a general feeling of malaise and bouts of dermatitis. In another home that had been flooded and was found to have black mold, an infant presented with more serious signs and symptoms that included recurrent pneumonia, a chronic cough and a recurring low grade fever. This was one of a cluster of cases that occurred in 1993 and 1994.
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