Mold is a type of fungus and it can found essentially everywhere, with no consensus on the exact number of species, but estimates range from tens to hundreds of thousands, according to CDC.
Mold species reproduce with spores, which, when inhaled, can trigger allergic reactions.
Certain mold species also produce mycotoxins that trigger a series of adverse downstream side effects in humans.
Mold prefer warm damp areas, which is why they are commonly found indoors, in rooms with high humidity like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. But. don’t think other areas are immune, as mold can appear at any damp place.
Although your home is the first place you should inspect, other sites like your work can be causing the problem as well. Mold can grow inside air vents, and then it can spread around the office quickly, affecting the health of all employees. Or maybe you joined a new gym, with a less than clean locker room or sauna where it’s humid; the perfect environment for mold growth.
Mold is also quite common in food. The FAO — the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization — estimates that 25 percent of the world’s food crops are contaminated with mycotoxins. Peanuts & coffee are the biggest offenders, spices (coriander, turmeric and ginger) and grains are up there as well. For an in depth list of mold species and watch outs head to the World Health Organization’s website.
Common symptoms associated with toxic mold exposure include:
- Allergy-like symptoms
- Hormone changes
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Mood changes
- Immune system dysregulation
- Energy
- Skin rashes
- Brain fog
- Visual impairment
- Neurological impairment
- Night sweats
- Tremors
- Vertigo
- Hair loss
Multiple studies demonstrated that long-term exposure could also lead to feelings of chronic fatigue, anxiety , depression, impaired memory, decreased libido, and stomach pains. Research shows that our neurological, respiratory, and immune systems are most affected by water damage and mold.
A study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology showed that mold exposure in early childhood led to an increase in asthma prevalence in children at the age of 7.
If a source of mold is found in your home or workplace, you will either need to remove yourself from the moldy environment or complete mold remediation of some kind. An indoor air specialist or mold clean up expert can help you plan your project.
Once you’ve handled the mold exposure, you will need the help of a Holistic Healthcare specialist to aid your body in detoxing from the mold and mycotoxins.
Check out our list of Holistic Resources if you suspect you are suffering from mold exposer.