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Experts answer questions about indoor growth linked to health problems.
April 10, 2002 - It can grow wherever there's moisture in the home. On sheet rock. On the carpet. On wood panels. Indoor mold is increasingly being blamed for a range of health problems -- from allergies to asthma to respiratory difficulties.
The interest in indoor mold has grown so much that California last year passed two laws related to researching indoor mold, determining what levels are unacceptable, evaluating how to measure its health effects and determining how to best get rid of it, said Sandy McNeel, research scientist for the environmental and occupational disease control division at the Department of Health Services.
Not all molds can cause health problems and not all health problems seemingly mold related are caused solely by mold. Here are questions on the basics of indoor mold and its known adverse effects and answers from McNeel and Dr. Jay Portnoy, a spokesman on indoor mold for the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology:
Q. What is mold?
A. Molds are a type of fungus. They produce tiny spores to reproduce. When these spores land on damp areas indoors, they may begin growing. They can grow in areas that are not readily visible, such as between furniture and walls. You can control indoor mold growth by controlling the moisture in your home.
Q. Are all molds harmful to health?
A. Some have greater potential to be harmful than others. A less common type of mold, Stachybotris chartarum, may produce compounds that have toxic properties, which are called mycotoxins.
Q. Can the amounts of mold be measured in a home?
A. Yes, they can. There are several ways to measure mold in a home, including evaluating a sample of dust from the home and studying the amount of mycotoxins -- toxic products -- mold produces.
Q. What have studies shown about health problems that mold exposure can cause?
A. Studies have shown that mold exposure can trigger allergic reactions, asthma and respiratory difficulties.
Symptoms include wheezing; difficulty breathing and shortness of breath; nasal and sinus congestion; irritated eyes; dry, hacking cough; irritated nose or throat; and skin rashes or irritation.
There are anecdotal reports linking mold exposure to headaches, memory problems, mood swings, nosebleeds, body aches and pains, fevers, dizziness, fatigue and forgetfulness, but studies are needed.
You can link mold exposure to health problems, but it is difficult to isolate it as the only cause, Portnoy said.
Q. Why does the severity of effects vary from one person to the next?
A. The reasons are not known. Some people are much more susceptible, including infants, young children, the elderly, people with previous respiratory problems and allergies and people with a weak immune system.
Q. What should I do if I suspect mold exposure is affecting my health? A. You can take these measures:
If you are aware of an area in the home that is contaminated with mold, clean it with dish detergent mixed with water and wipe off the mold. Killing the mold with bleach and water is not the first step, McNeel said. When the mold dies and dries up, air currents or physical handling can cause spores to become airborne and can adversely affect you.
Wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and a respirator designed for particulate removal (available at hardware stores).
If the contamination is severe and cannot be removed by cleaning, you may need to replace the contaminated part.
Check and repair any moisture seepage or leaks.
If Your symptoms persist, ask your primary care physician for a referral to an allergist who may determine if you are affected by mold exposure and can treat you appropriately.
Check with the environmental health department of your local university and community .college to get a referral to a reputable environmental health specialist who can visit your home.
Q. Where can I get more information on indoor mold?
A. Go to the following:
Environmental Protection Agency - Basic Mold Cleanup
California Department of Health Services - Indoor Air Quality Program
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