4 Signs Mold is Affecting Your Health 

How Much Does Mold Affect Your Health?

Mold is a type of fungus that grows on organic matter in moist environments. Certain kinds of molds are toxic to humans and produce allergens that cause allergic reactions in most people.

How Does Mold Reproduce and Spread?

Mold multiplies by releasing tiny spores, think of them as microscopic seeds, released into the air. You won’t see them, but they’re almost everywhere, drifting along with every breeze inside and out. Once these spores land on a damp surface, be it an old cardboard box in your garage, a forgotten slice of bread, or the bathroom grout, they spring to life and start new colonies.

What’s important to know is that these spores are incredibly resilient. They can survive for long periods, patiently biding their time until they find just the right mix of moisture and organic material to thrive. Common spots are water-damaged walls, window sills, and anywhere San Diego or Orange County’s ocean air seeps indoors.

In other words, all mold needs is a bit of moisture and something to feed on, and it will waste no time spreading throughout your space.

Does Mold Weaken Your Immune System?

Black mold (often referring to Stachybotrys chartarum) is what you have to watch out for the most. It causes allergic reactions that can severely affect your breathing, skin, energy, immune system, and blood circulation. As a result, the affected person could become significantly ill. It all depends on how many mold spores were inhaled into the lungs. Other molds can not be detected by the eye and require testing.

What Tests or Procedures Detect Mold in the Lungs?

If you or your doctor suspect mold exposure is affecting your lungs, several diagnostic tools may be used to confirm the presence of mold or related infections, especially if you already suffer from allergies, asthma, or have a weakened immune system.

To pinpoint mold in the lungs, a healthcare provider might use:

• Microscopic Analysis: A small sample of lung fluid (usually collected with a thin, flexible tube passed through the nose or mouth) can be examined under a microscope to look for signs of mold growth.
• Blood Tests: These check for antibodies that indicate your body is fighting off a mold invader or for traces of fungal spores circulating in your bloodstream.
• Imaging: Chest X-rays or CT scans give your doctor a detailed look at your lungs, helping to spot abnormal areas or clusters that suggest mold buildup and to rule out other potential causes.
• Other Laboratory Testing: In some cases, sputum cultures (analyzing mucus from deep in your lungs) can identify exactly which type of mold is present.

These procedures, often recommended by pulmonologists or infectious disease specialists, are vital for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment, especially in regions like San Diego and Orange County, where certain types of mold thrive in the climate.

If you have or even suspect mold in your home or business in San Diego and Orange County, call Orange Restoration today!  (619) 376-6838 We are here to help and available 24 hours a day!

Four Most Common Effects of Mold on Humans

Breathing Problems

The number one effect of mold on your health is breathing problems. When mold spores enter your respiratory system, you could experience coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing symptoms. But if you only had minimal exposure to mold spores, you won’t experience any worsening symptoms.

However, if you have too much exposure to mold spores, you could develop more severe respiratory health conditions, such as lung swelling and bleeding. These conditions could ultimately put your life in danger.

Common Respiratory Symptoms

Mold exposure can trigger a range of symptoms, which often resemble asthma or an allergic reaction, including:

• Persistent coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood (in more severe cases)
• Fever (rare, but possible with certain mold infections)

In some cases, mold can cause an allergic reaction called allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), which is particularly problematic for those with asthma or weakened immune systems. In more severe situations, certain molds can invade lung tissue, leading to invasive infections that may become life-threatening if not treated.

It’s also possible for mold to form a ball in your lungs, a condition known as aspergilloma. While this ball typically remains in the lungs, it can cause tissue damage and symptoms like shortness of breath and chronic coughing.

If you notice any of these symptoms and suspect mold exposure, especially if you live in a damp or poorly ventilated space, it’s crucial to seek professional help and have your indoor air quality assessed.

What Is the Outlook for People with Mold in Their Lungs?

The outcome for individuals with mold exposure in their lungs depends largely on the type of infection and how early treatment begins. For most people who catch symptoms early and receive proper care, especially in cases like allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), the prognosis is generally favorable. Most recover well with medication and symptom management.

However, for those with weakened immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients or individuals undergoing certain cancer treatments, the situation can be much more serious. Invasive mold infections, particularly from Aspergillus species, are much more difficult to treat and can be life-threatening. Studies show that the risk of severe complications or even fatality is significantly higher in these high-risk groups, with some medical literature reporting mortality rates above 50%.

Early intervention and working closely with your healthcare provider are crucial to improving outcomes. If you suspect mold exposure in your lungs or experience persistent respiratory symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.

Treatment Options for Mold in the Lungs

If you’re experiencing health problems from mold in your lungs, it’s important to know that avoiding every mold spore may not be possible, especially if you live in damp or humid regions like San Diego County or Orange County. That’s why treatment usually centers on managing symptoms and limiting further complications.

Doctors commonly prescribe corticosteroids to help reduce inflammation in your airways, making it easier to breathe and easing coughing spells. In some cases, especially for more severe symptoms, antifungal medications like itraconazole may be used to target the mold directly, although these aren’t always universally effective and responses can vary among patients.

In rare and serious situations where mold has invaded organs beyond the lungs, surgery could be necessary to remove affected tissue. Of course, if you have ongoing symptoms or have been diagnosed with a mold-related lung issue, it’s best to follow the specific treatment plan recommended by your healthcare provider.

Always remember, addressing the mold source in your environment is as crucial as treating symptoms, never hesitate to contact professionals for removal and remediation.

Treating Mold-Related Lung Issues

When it comes to managing the effects of mold exposure on your lungs, most doctors turn to corticosteroids and antifungal medications. Corticosteroids are commonly prescribed because they help reduce airway inflammation and make breathing easier, especially for people dealing with persistent coughing or wheezing. Some people take these medications daily, while others use them only when symptoms get worse.

As for antifungal medications like itraconazole, their effectiveness varies and isn’t always clear-cut. In practice, the majority of patients diagnosed with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) are given oral corticosteroids. Some may also receive a combination of inhaled corticosteroids and antifungal therapy. According to published studies, about 97% of ABPA patients are prescribed corticosteroids, while around 41% receive a combination of corticosteroids and antifungal agents.

Overall, while corticosteroids tend to provide the most consistent relief for lung inflammation caused by mold, adding antifungal medications may provide additional benefits for certain individuals. However, results can differ from person to person, and it’s essential to consult an experienced healthcare provider for the best treatment strategy.

How Is Mold in the Lungs Diagnosed?

Detecting mold in your lungs isn’t always straightforward, but there are reliable methods used by medical professionals. If you have symptoms or underlying conditions—like asthma or a weakened immune system, your doctor will typically start with a review of your symptoms and medical history.

In many cases, the diagnostic process includes:

• Collecting Samples: Doctors may use a technique called bronchoscopy to gently collect a sample from your lungs. This involves inserting a thin, flexible tube through your nose or mouth, allowing the specialist to gather lung fluid or tissue for closer inspection.
• Blood Tests: Bloodwork can reveal antibodies or fungal markers, indicating your immune system is reacting to mold or an active infection.
• Imaging: X-rays or CT scans can help rule out other causes and reveal any mold buildup or lung damage.

Your healthcare provider will determine the right course of testing based on your symptoms. If you suspect mold exposure in your home or business, it’s always best to act quickly! Early detection and professional remediation can help protect your health and prevent further complications.

What is Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA)?

In some cases, mold exposure can trigger a condition known as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, or ABPA. This reaction occurs when mold spores, particularly from the Aspergillus species, settle in the lungs and cause inflammation. People with ABPA often experience symptoms that mimic or worsen asthma, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. In rare instances, a mild fever may occur.

If you already have asthma or cystic fibrosis, ABPA can make breathing issues more severe, so it’s crucial to get professional help if you suspect mold exposure is affecting your respiratory health.

Weak Immune System

Black mold produces a specific toxic substance called mycotoxin. If you inhale too many mycotoxins, they will suppress and weaken your immune system. Then you could become more susceptible to diseases, viruses, infections, and other forms of sickness.

People who live in damp and humid environments tend to get sick more often because of the vast amount of mycotoxins in the air. The best thing you can do is protect your face outside and turn on a dehumidifier in your home to eliminate moisture.

What To Do If You Find Mold

If you discover mold in your home, taking immediate action is important for both your health and safety. In many cases, you can tackle small mold problems yourself using home safe soap and water. Always wear a protective mask, gloves, and eyewear when cleaning to avoid breathing in or touching the mold, and keep the area well-ventilated by opening a window.

Safety Tips for Cleaning Mold:

• Never mix ammonia or other cleaners with bleach.
• Avoid mixing cleaning chemicals in general.
• Wear a mask, gloves, and eye protection.
• Remove moisture sources with a dehumidifier to prevent mold from returning.

When to Call a Professional:

• If the mold covers a large area or is in a hard-to-reach place
• If there’s significant water damage
• If you suffer from respiratory issues or have a mold allergy

Acting quickly can help you limit exposure to harmful mycotoxins and protect your immune system from further compromise.

If you have a need for ultrafine particulate matter removal, or are concerned with microbial growths, read our article on the topic Microbial Growth & Ultrafine Particulate Matter Removal.

Poor Blood Circulation

Your body depends on blood circulation to deliver vital vitamins, oxygen, and nutrients to its precious cells and organs. Since mycotoxins can weaken your body’s blood circulation, they can cause you to develop various health conditions and symptoms.

Some of the worst potential symptoms of poor blood circulation include heart inflammation, blood clots, irregular heartbeat, and internal bleeding. These symptoms are the result of long-term mold exposure but don’t take any chances regardless. Everyone has a different tolerance level to even the smallest amounts of mold spores.

Low Energy

If you have incurred long-term mold exposure, the immune system will attempt to battle the mycotoxins in the bloodstream. One of its natural defense mechanisms against mold is the production of a sedative known as Chloral Hydrate.

As the mycotoxins circulate in the bloodstream, this sedative will reduce the severe effects of the toxins on the body. Unfortunately, you may experience some uncomfortable symptoms during this process. The most common symptoms are chronic fatigue and drowsiness. Some people even experience muscle pain and joint pain too.

Understanding Black Mold

Black mold may get the most attention, many other types of mold can negatively affect health, especially for individuals with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. Often the molds you can’t see are the ones that can be the most harmful because they go ignored. 

In Southern California, the warm climate and frequent coastal humidity create an environment conducive to mold growth, particularly after water damage or in poorly ventilated areas. 

Health Concerns & Mold Types Common To San Diego & Orange County

These are the most commonly encountered mold types found in remediation and testing in the Southern California region:

1. Aspergillus:varies in color depending on the species, with common shades including green, yellow, white, brown, and black, often appearing multicolored with a powdery or fuzzy texture. The surface may look powdery or velvety as it matures and can develop a rough texture resembling a dense mat of spores. It typically grows in circular patches with defined edges, sometimes expanding outward in a “bullseye” or concentric ring pattern, with the outer edge appearing softer or lighter in color. Aspergillus is frequently found on walls with water damage, insulation, dusty surfaces, HVAC systems and vents, and damp wood or fabric.

• • Why Common: Southern California’s warm and dry climate can lead to household dust containing Aspergillus. It thrives indoors, especially after water damage or in dusty, poorly ventilated homes.
  • Health Concerns: Allergic reactions, respiratory irritation, and invasive aspergillosis in immunocompromised individuals.

What Is Aspergillosis & What Causes It?

Aspergillosis is an infection or allergic response triggered when someone inhales spores from certain types of mold, most commonly the species Aspergillus fumigatus. These microscopic spores are practically everywhere: floating in outdoor air and settling indoors on dust, decaying leaves, soil, and even damp household materials. While most people’s immune systems handle occasional exposure without issue, those with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems can develop more serious complications when exposed to high concentrations.

Essentially, aspergillosis occurs when the body either mounts an excessive allergic reaction or is unable to clear these spores effectively, allowing the mold to take hold in the lungs or sinuses. The result can range from mild allergy-like symptoms to severe, invasive infections, especially in people who are already immunocompromised. In regions like Southern California, where ambient mold levels can be high, especially after water damage or in poorly ventilated environments, awareness and prompt remediation are crucial for minimizing risk.

Now, let’s look at another common household mold in Southern California:

What is Invasive Aspergillosis?

Invasive aspergillosis is a serious lung infection that occurs when Aspergillus spores take hold deep within the lung tissue, rather than staying on the surface or being cleared away by the body’s natural defenses. This aggressive condition most often affects people with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplants, or living with chronic lung diseases.

Symptoms tend to start out like a severe respiratory infection and may include high fever, chest discomfort, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, and sometimes even coughing up blood. If left untreated, the infection can move beyond the lungs, spreading to other organs and becoming life-threatening. Early detection and medical intervention are critical, particularly for those at higher risk.

Non-Aspergillus Mold Infections: What You Should Know

While Aspergillus tends to be top of mind, it’s not the only mold that poses health risks in Southern California homes. There’s actually a host of other molds, collectively referred to as “non-Aspergillus molds” that can trigger infections, particularly in those with weakened immune systems such as individuals undergoing cancer treatment or organ transplants. These infections, though less talked about, make up approximately 10–25% of serious mold infections in these vulnerable groups.

Some of the most significant non-Aspergillus molds include:

• Mucormycetes:
  These are leading culprits behind non-Aspergillus mold infections in humans. Mucormycetes thrive in environments impacted by water damage or decaying organic material and are known to be especially aggressive if inhaled by immunocompromised individuals. Outbreaks have been noted in various regions worldwide, and early detection is key since these molds can cause rapid and severe infections.
• Hyalohyphomycetes (e.g., Fusarium):
  Under the microscope, these molds often resemble Aspergillus but can be found in a wide array of environments such as soil, plant debris, and water. One notable member, Fusarium, is particularly widespread in the U.S. and Europe and ranks just behind Aspergillus as a cause of invasive mold infections, often affecting skin, eyes, and lungs.
• Phaeohyphomycetes:
  Distinguished by their dark pigmentation, this large group of molds (over 100 types!) usually causes mild infections in people with weakened immune systems. Rarely, they can cause more serious disease if left unchecked, particularly after water intrusion or when indoor moisture problems persist.

In short, household mold is a much broader threat than many realize, which is why identification and remediation are so crucial, especially after water damage and for those who are more susceptible due to underlying health issues. Keeping humidity low and ensuring quick cleanup after leaks can help prevent these problematic species from gaining a foothold indoors.

2. Penicillium typically appears in shades of blue, green, or white, though it can also present yellowish or gray tones, often with a velvety or powdery surface texture. As it matures, the colonies may look denser and slightly granular due to spore production. It grows in flat, spreading patches with irregular edges, sometimes forming concentric rings or gradients of color. Penicillium is commonly found on water-damaged materials such as carpets, insulation, wallpaper, and drywall, as well as on spoiled food and organic debris in damp environments.

• • Why Common: Water-damaged materials like carpets, insulation, and drywall are prevalent sources of Penicillium. High indoor humidity or leaks in homes create ideal conditions for its growth.
  • Health Concerns: Allergies, asthma, and exposure to mycotoxins, which can lead to more severe health issues.

3. Cladosporium often appears in shades of olive green, brown, or black, with a suede-like or powdery texture that becomes more pronounced as it matures. It tends to grow in irregular, spreading patches with soft, fuzzy edges, adapting easily to a variety of surfaces. This mold is unique in remediation because it thrives in both warm and cool conditions, making it particularly persistent in areas like HVAC systems, window sills, and water-damaged wood or fabrics. Its ability to grow indoors and outdoors means it frequently requires professional remediation to prevent further contamination and protect indoor air quality.

• • Why Common: Found both indoors and outdoors, Cladosporium is highly prevalent in Southern California homes, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements with high humidity or condensation.
  • Health Concerns: Triggers asthma and allergic responses like sinus irritation and skin rashes.

4. Alternaria is typically dark green or brown with a velvety or fuzzy texture that develops as the mold matures. It grows in irregular, spreading patches and often appears in damp areas prone to condensation or leaks. This mold is commonly found in bathrooms, under sinks, and around plumbing fixtures, making professional plumbing repairs critical in remediation efforts to address the root cause of moisture. Alternaria is also prevalent on windowsills, shower walls, and water-damaged materials, requiring expert mold remediation and indoor air quality testing to ensure complete removal and a safe living environment.

• • Why Common: Found outdoors in Southern California’s dry vegetation, Alternaria can be carried indoors, where it thrives in damp areas like showers, windowsills, and under sinks.
  • Health Concerns: Worsens asthma and causes hay fever-like symptoms.

5. Chaetomium typically appears in shades of white or gray when young, transitioning to darker colors like olive, brown, or black as it matures, with a cottony or woolly texture. It grows in spreading patches and is most commonly found on water-damaged materials such as drywall, wood, and paper products. This mold stands out in remediation because it thrives in areas with prolonged moisture exposure, often following leaks or flooding, making water damage repair a critical step in addressing its growth. Its ability to produce mycotoxins underscores the importance of professional mold remediation to ensure safety and prevent health risks.

• • Why Common: Water-damaged drywall and wood in Southern California homes frequently host Chaetomium. This mold grows where moisture persists, especially after plumbing leaks or floods.
  • Health Concerns: Produces mycotoxins and may cause immune and nervous system issues.

6. Stachybotrys (commonly known as black mold) typically appears as dark green or black patches with a slimy or wet texture, though it can become dry and powdery over time. It thrives on materials like drywall, wood, and paper that have been exposed to prolonged moisture, such as after leaks or flooding. Known for producing harmful mycotoxins, it often requires professional mold remediation to ensure safe and thorough removal.

• • Why Common: Though less common than the others, Stachybotrys still appears in Southern California homes with severe and prolonged water damage, such as after floods or undetected leaks.
  • Health Concerns: Produces mycotoxins that can lead to respiratory distress, fatigue, and other serious symptoms.

7. Ulocladium appears in dark colors, typically black or brown, with a velvety or powdery texture. It grows in irregular patches and thrives in areas with high moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Frequently found on water-damaged walls, wood, and fabrics, Ulocladium often indicates significant water intrusion, making professional mold remediation essential to address underlying moisture issues and prevent further contamination.

• • Why Common: Found in areas with consistent water exposure, Ulocladium grows in bathrooms, kitchens, and other high-humidity zones in Southern California homes.
  • Health Concerns: Causes allergic reactions and respiratory issues, especially in sensitive individuals.

Mold-Specific Trends in Southern California

• Drought Cycles: Prolonged droughts followed by sudden rain (common in Southern California) can lead to water intrusion and damp conditions, creating hotspots for mold growth.
• Building Practices: Stucco and drywall, commonly used in California homes, are prone to trapping moisture, which fosters molds like Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Chaetomium.
• Coastal Areas: Near the coast, salt air and persistent moisture make molds like Cladosporium and Alternaria particularly common.
• Post-Fire Mold Growth: After wildfires, firefighting efforts often leave water-damaged homes, leading to rapid mold growth.

Conclusion

Take mold seriously. It can have devastating effects on people’s health and wellness, especially if they have a preexisting respiratory or immunodeficiency condition.

The best ways to prevent mold growth are to maintain a dry indoor environment. Try to avoid water leaks and moisture accumulation. If you notice any mold growth, wear a face mask and clean it up immediately. Call a professional mold damage remediation company if the mold growth has spread too much onto the walls and ceiling of your home. (619) 376-6838