FAQ

Mold is widespread and common in our ecosystem. In fact, it is quite beneficial for the environment as it helps break down dead plant and animal material. Mold spreads around through minute lightweight spores that travel in even the lightest breeze. 

While beneficial to the environment, indoor mold can be rather problematic. Damp and poorly ventilated areas provide the ideal condition for the mold to develop and spread indoors; which in turn causes exposure to large numbers of mold spores in the indoor spaces. 

Mold exposure causes symptoms ranging from watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, itching, throat irritation, coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, headache, and fatigue. Prolonged and repeated exposure to mold will result in severe allergic reactions and respiratory issues. Certain molds, such as Stachybotrys (Black Mold), Chaetomium and Fusarium, can produce toxins called mycotoxins.  

Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are poisonous chemicals produced and used by mold to help defend its territory from other microbes. Unfortunately, mycotoxins, even in low concentrations, can be very harmful to people. In fact, it is thought that mycotoxins are more harmful than pesticides. 

There are hundreds of different mycotoxins produced by molds. The level and mold of toxicity varies between different mycotoxins. They are known to harm the mitochondria, kidneys, and lungs. Some common mycotoxins and their impacts are:  

    Aflatoxins: produced by Aspergillus flavus and some penicillium species and are linked to increased risk of liver cancer.

    Ochratoxin A: will suppress your immune system, cause damage to your nerves and impair brain function. 

    Trichothecenes: produced by black mold (stachybotrys) and other molds; interfere with the cells’ ability to make proteins needed by the body resulting in impaired immunity, oxidative stress, and nerve damage.

Who is Susceptible to Mold?

Symptoms of mold poisoning depend on various factors including age, gender, prior health status, level of exposure, etc. While some people may develop symptoms quickly, others, even under the same conditions, may not experience any symptoms whatsoever. People with pre-existing health problems will be more prone to mold-related issues.

Chronic Diseases

Individuals especially suffering from chronic respiratory disease could develop symptoms of mold exposure after inhaling just a small amount of mold. Hence, sufferers of asthma or obstructive pulmonary disorder must be especially careful.

Mold Allergy

A person who is allergic to mold will likely exhibit symptoms of mold exposure more rapidly and intensely. It can show itself as a respiratory reaction or on the skin. In such cases, it is critical to minimize contact with moldy areas or infected air as it can cause severe & critical reactions.

Suppressed Immune System

Persons with a suppressed immune system are at a high risk of developing fungal infections through mold exposure. The impaired immune system is unable to defend the body adequately causing even minor exposures to be problematic. A compromised immune system does not only include those with severe diseases; it can also include those with the simple flu, Alcohol, smoking, or bad nutrition – any of which will also suppress your immune system.