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Symptoms of Black Mold Exposure?

Ask the Expert Team

Ask the Expert Team

Sutter Health

Question:

I found alot of black mold in my home. What are symptoms that mold is affecting me?

Answer:

Black mold can look menacing, but generally is benign. The primary symptoms that could occur would be from inhaling mold, including nasal stuffiness, nasal mucus drainage, cough, and occasionally shortness of breath or wheezing in the chest. These symptoms can also occur from inhaling other allergens like pollen and dust mites, as well as inhaling dry air from forced air heat or air conditioning. Rarely these molds could cause headaches too.

At one point there was a suggestion that black mold exposure could cause more severe conditions, like autoimmune disease, neurologic disorders, or even cancer. This has been shown to be absolutely not true. If someone has immune deficiency or is being treated for conditions like cancer, there is a risk that these molds could cause infections which could become serious. If there are any suspicions of reactions to molds, then a physician should be contacted.

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