The advancement of modern science & technology has determined a clear correlation regarding health implications caused by exposure to mould and water damaged buildings (WDB). These two variants play a majority role in developing what can only be described as a chemical stew, particularly in the presence of several other factors such as but not limited to bacteria, fungi, pest & rodent activity, dust mites, & termites. The previously mentioned determinants also have the capability to produce allergen & fungal elements even before the introduction of developed mould.
What does mould to do us as humans? What effects does mould have on our health?
There are abundance of peer reviewed literature more often than not coming to similar conclusions. Mould exposure impacts our health negatively, with the ability to not only cause allergy response but infection and disease.
The main ways mould exposure effects our health: Allergies, infection, mycotoxins, & chronic inflammation.
Allergic reactions
Many clinicians overlook mould exposure when it comes to patients presenting signs of allergies, asthma, & fatigue. Meaning countless people are receiving futile treatment or effective treatment, although the living environment/workplace are counteracting treatment due to consistent mould exposure. Allergic responses generated by mould exposure often present as skin irritation, asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and low blood pressure.
Infections
The major exposure risk to us humans is the inhalation of spores into the respiratory system including the lungs. Evidence once again shows the correlation of mould & WDB exposure to respiratory health issues including asthma. More alarming literature is showing the increase of mould & WDB exposure to infections of the upper and lower respiratory systems such as pneumonia, bronchitis and increased hospital admissions due to lung function decline. Exposure to mould & WDB also correlates to non-respiratory conditions such as dermatitis, sleep problems, & a condition known as ‘sick building syndrome’.
Mycotoxicosis
Put more simply as a condition as the ingestion of contaminated foods. This condition can have an impact on several body systems including neurological damage, liver & kidney damage, disruption to the endocrine & gastrointestinal systems, more severely cancer & death. Yes, that’s correct cancer & death, sub-species of the aspergillus mould family (fumigatus, flavus, versicolor, ochraceus, & niger) produce carcinogenic mycotoxins.
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)
This condition is a result from a susceptibility which is unique to 24% of the population where the immune system can’t manufacture antibodies to counteract biotoxins created in a WDB. People suffering from CIRS will experience chronic infections, poor sleep, body pain, sensitivity to smells & touch. Essentially low grade inflammation is persistent within the body potentially leading to autoimmune, neurological decline, 7 chronic fatigue symptoms. Other symptoms may include excessive thirst, constant urination, & static shocks.