What symptoms are common?
Allergic reactions may be the most common health problem of mold exposure. Typical symptoms reported (alone or in combination) include: • respiratory problems, such as wheezing, and difficulty in breathing • nasal and sinus congestion • eyes-burning, watery, reddened, blurry vision, light sensitivity • dry, hacking cough • sore throat • nose and throat irritation • shortness of breath • skin irritation • central nervous system problems (constant headaches, memory problems, and mood changes) • aches and pains • possible fever Are some molds more hazardous than others? Allergic persons vary in their sensitivities to mold, both as to amount and type needed to cause reactions. In addition, certain types of molds can produce toxins, called mycotoxins, that the mold uses to inhibit or prevent the growth of other organisms. Mycotoxins are found in both living and dead mold spores. Materials permeated with mold need to be removed, even after they are disinfected with cleaning solutions. Allerg