All mould varieties at certain levels can cause allergic reactions and be potentially dangerous to your health.
You've probably heard the terms black mould and toxic mould. Black or toxic mould refers to moulds that may produce mycotoxins or toxins. Black mould frequently grows in areas of the home where moisture is high and where water condenses.
These areas include:
In the kitchen, especially under the sink and inside cabinets
In the bathroom, especially in and around the shower and tub
In the walls where pipes make be leaky
Roof leaks on the ceilings.
Behind or under appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines
Around windows and window sills
In fireplaces and chimneys
In the attic, especially near vents, the water heater, or the furnace
In the basement, especially around ducts, pipes, or a sump pump
Areas of your home with high humidity such as shower walls, basements, and crawl spaces.
Common illness & symptoms that mould can cause are:
Respiratory/ Sinus Issues - Asthma, shortness of breath, colds, chronic cough flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, rhinitis & sinusitis infection
Nausea & Vomiting
Headaches, migraines & sensitivity to light
Weakness, fatigue & body pain
Weak Immunity
Nose bleeds & Bleeding gums
Unusual skin sensations, tingling, or numbness
Hormonal & Fertility Issues
Constant Sore & Irritated Throat
Infants & Children - acute vomiting, diarrhea, asthma attacks and even pulmonary haemorrhaging in severe cases. Long-term exposure can lead to death. Even adults living around toxic black mould for extended hours are more prone to get infections and become sick.
Eye Problems - soreness, watery eyes, bloodshot eyes, conjunctivitis and blurry vision.
Static Shock
Insomnia & sleep problem
Depression & anxiety
Poor wound healing
Vertigo, feeling lightheaded
Skin Rashes - skin inflammation, pink or brown skin rashes, blisters, dry skin, eczema and severe itchiness. At times, it can cause yellowing of the skin as if you are suffering from jaundice.
Body Temperature Regulation Issues– The system-wide inflammation can often come with increased body temperature or difficulty regulating your temperature. It’s common to experience chills and night sweats.
Excessive Thirst & Increased Urination
Impaired Mobility & Tremors
Cancer
Metallic Taste
Gastrointestinal Issues – abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhoea, appetite changes and other gastrointestinal issues.
Circulatory Problems - blood clotting, internal or external hemorrhaging, irregular heartbeat and low blood pressure. In severe cases, it can cause bone marrow disruption, vomiting up blood and even bleeding in the brain and other organs.
Cognitive & Neurological Problems - cognitive and behavioural changes, ataxia (lack of muscle coordination) and convulsions. Compromises the functions of the frontal cortex, where problem-solving, memory and impulses are controlled.
Mental Status Changes – Confusion, brain fog, difficulty finding words to say, shortened attention span, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, memory loss and memory problems, impaired learning ability, hallucinations.
Mould Prevention Tips:
Use a dehumidifier in areas that have humidity above 50 percent. Change the water frequently and also disinfect it to prevent mould from forming.
Move furniture or clutter to allow for better air circulation in the attic, basement, closets and bathroom.
Keep damp areas, such as the kitchen, laundry room, under the kitchen sink and under the lid/ door and detergent tray of the washing machine, as dry as possible.
Dry out water damaged items and areas within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mould growth.
Regularly check for mould or mildew in attics, basements, closets, bathrooms, dirty clothes hampers, garbage cans and any other possible area where mould can develop.
Open windows daily.
Dry your clothes, soft toys and even items used by your pets thoroughly in the sun.
Keep the seals on your refrigerator and freezer doors clean and throw away leftover food.
Clean air conditioner filters regularly.
Keep your garden area clean by getting rid of fallen leaves, decaying plants and compost heaps.
Use kitchen or bathroom extraction fans to take out excess moisture after/during usage.
Prevent water leak and if a leak occurs address it ASAP.
If you notice visible mould in your home, remove the mould and identify and address the cause of the excess moisture.
For extensive mould damage, you may need to call a professional mould-remediation service.
Invest in a high quality air filter.
Foods that commonly contain mycotoxins:
Corn, wheat, barley, rye, peanuts, sorghum, sugar (from sugar cane and sugar beets), cottonseed, hard cheeses, alcoholic beverages such as wine and beer, coffee, oats, rice, animal meat and poultry, chiles, yeast, raw eggs, raw mushrooms, dairy products, spices, black pepper, dried fruits, figs, coffee, chocolate/ cacao, beans and bread.
Ensure that your food is cooked throughly to remove most mycotoxins.
MOULD PREVENTION/ TREATMENT PRODUCTS:
ESSENTIAL OILS- Thieves blend, cinnamon, oregano, thyme, clove, tea tree, lemon, peppermint, Detox Support Kitâ„¢
Pure Siberian Shilajit Activated Charcoal Powder Activated Charcoal Capsules Always consult your health care provider before starting any new supplements or herbs
If you think you are having mould illness symptom contact both your healthcare provider and a mould testing & remediation company