Molds produce allergens and irritants that can cause some individuals to experience symptoms of hay fever. These include sneezing, runny nose, skin rashes, irritated eyes, as well as nose, throat, and lung ailments.
Many toxic molds produce poisonous substances called mycotoxins. These toxins interfere with cell structures and processes, and have the potential to cause serious health issues. Their effects to the human body have been documented using controlled laboratory conditions.
Mycotoxins have been proven to be present indoors with victims suffering from:
- pulmonary hemorrhage or pulmonary hemosiderosis (primarily in infants)
- headaches and other flu-like symptoms
- nosebleeds
- immune system suppression (resulting in increased numbers of infections)
- hair loss
- chronic fatigue
- psychological depression
- diarrhea
- sore throats
- dermatitis
Other symptoms that have been associated with mold:
- "burning" eyes
- blurred vision
- respiratory illness
- chest pains
- chest tightness
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- dry cough
- nasal congestion
- aggravated asthma
- cognitive disorder
