Mold is a fungus that reproduces by releasing microscopic spores into the air. When these spores land on a damp surface indoors, they grow, establishing a colony that releases more spores and sometimes mycotoxins. Sleeping in a room with mold significantly increases exposure because the average person spends six to eight hours there nightly. This prolonged exposure means the body constantly inhales airborne particles, raising the overall health risk compared to brief exposure during waking hours.
Immediate and Common Health Reactions
The most frequent health issues stemming from mold exposure are allergic responses caused by inhaling spores. These spores act as allergens, triggering the body’s immune system to react as it would to pollen or pet dander. Symptoms often develop gradually, making it difficult to immediately link them to the mold growth.
Mold exposure commonly irritates the airways, leading to a persistent cough, frequent sneezing, and nasal congestion. Individuals may also experience throat irritation and wheezing, which is a high-pitched whistling sound produced during breathing. For those with existing conditions like asthma, the constant presence of mold spores can trigger more severe flare-ups and difficulty breathing.
Mold spores and the volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) they release can affect other bodily systems beyond the respiratory tract. Many people report ocular symptoms, such as itchy, watery, or red eyes, as airborne irritants contact the eye tissues. Skin contact with mold or spores can also result in irritation and rashes.
Systemic symptoms are also commonly reported with prolonged indoor mold exposure, though they are less directly linked to the spores. These can include unexplained fatigue or a chronic feeling of tiredness that does not resolve with sleep. Headaches are another frequent complaint, potentially linked to the body’s inflammatory response or the inhalation of MVOCs, which contribute to the characteristic musty odor.
Specific Populations at Higher Risk
While anyone can experience allergic reactions to indoor mold, certain groups face a greater likelihood of more serious health effects. Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems and smaller body size. Their smaller lungs and airways mean they process a higher concentration of airborne spores relative to their body weight.
Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, also face heightened risks. Mold spores can act as a potent trigger for these people, leading to more frequent and severe respiratory distress or infections. The elderly are another group at increased risk, often having declining immune function that makes them less able to fight off the effects of continuous exposure.
People who are immunocompromised, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or managing autoimmune diseases, are the most susceptible to severe health outcomes. Their weakened immune defenses may struggle to manage the exposure, sometimes leading to invasive mold infections in the lungs or other organs. Identifying and removing the mold source is particularly urgent for anyone in these vulnerable populations.
Addressing the Mold Source
The first step in addressing a mold problem is identifying and eliminating the source of moisture that allowed the growth to begin. Mold needs water to thrive, so common sources like leaky pipes, condensation, or high indoor humidity must be fixed before any cleaning can be effective. Without resolving the underlying water issue, mold will inevitably return.
For small areas of mold growth, typically less than 10 square feet, a homeowner can often manage the cleanup themselves. This involves scrubbing the mold from non-porous surfaces using a solution of water and a non-ammonia detergent. Porous materials like drywall or insulation must be discarded if they are significantly moldy.
During cleanup, it is necessary to wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and a respirator, to avoid inhaling spores. The work area should be contained, and ventilation provided by using a fan to direct air out of a window. Once the visible mold is removed, the area must be dried completely within 24 to 48 hours to prevent immediate regrowth.
If the mold covers an area larger than 10 square feet, or if it is hidden within walls or is the result of contaminated water, professional remediation is necessary. Preventing recurrence involves maintaining indoor humidity levels below 50% using air conditioning or a dehumidifier. Ensuring proper ventilation in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens also helps control the conditions mold needs to grow.