Black Mold Symptoms

Before we discuss black mold symptoms it is important to understand what toxic black mold is and what causes it. It belongs to a genus of fungi known as Stachybotrys that has about 50 different species in its family. The two most dangerous species are know as S. chartarum and S. chlorohalonata and if they are left untreated can become very toxic to humans and household pets.

These molds grow best in cellulose materials such as wood or paper that are exposed dark, damp environments. Water damaged homes and buildings are most susceptible but anywhere there is excess moisture can harbor these dangerous spores. A leaky toilet or sink that’s leaking into the spaces between walls or floors can lead to an unknown outbreak of black mold. Areas with humidity higher than 55 to 60 percent are also at an increased risk for mold problems.

Unfortunately for many people they don’t know they have a problem until they begin to experience the symptoms of black mold. If your home has had any kind of water damage or moisture problem it is imperative that you keep a wary eye for any signs of a Stachybotrys problem.

Many people do not even realize they have a toxic mold issue until someone in their home keeps getting sick. And even then the symptoms may be seem more like a cold, sinus infection, allergies, or asthma that they spend more time going to the doctor then trying to find the cause of the illness.

The type of symptoms and how they manifest are largely dependent on the length one is exposed to, how much they have inhaled, ingested, or been in physical contact with the Stachybotrys toxins. Common symptoms include chronic fatigue, headaches, eye irritation, irritation of the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat and nose, and chronic sneezing, coughing, and rashes.

The symptoms in severe cases tend to be extreme and include nausea, vomiting, and even worse bleeding in the nose and lungs. Those with allergic reactions will also find these other symptoms to be exacerbated.

Not only are human symptoms to be watched for but the home or building with black mold will exhibit it own set of symptoms. In fact this problem is often called sick building syndrome, particularly when it affects large buildings such as apartments or offices.

The first signs most people notice is unusual odors or a musty smell. This does not mean that black mold is present but it does mean that a test for the fungi should be undertaken. The problem is you may never see actual signs of mold because it tends to grow in dark hidden places people don’t normally go or look at. If you notice odd smells when the air conditioning is running then you may already have a serious problem.

More extreme cases may begin to show visible signs of growth. Stachybotrys mold has a greenish tint that will cause yellow stains to start appearing on the inside walls of houses and buildings. The stain will start underneath the paint or wall paper and if severe enough will cause the paint to peel off the wall because of all the excess moisture. One way to check walls for black mold is to use a black light and shine it on the walls. A yellow glow in an indication that mold is growing in the wall.

Black mold symptoms, whether in family members or the building itself, should be taken very seriously. Immediate action needs to be taken to remedy the situation and protect loved ones and valuable property from the affects of these destructive fungi.