Mold toxicity is a growing concern among many people today. This is because it is associated with numerous health complications such as respiratory issues, fatigue, brain fog, and skin irritation, among others. However, not many people know the hidden causes of mold toxicity. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the lesser-known causes of mold toxicity that you need to be aware of. Read on to learn more.
What is Mold Toxicity?
Mold toxicity is a condition caused by exposure to mold spores or toxins that are produced by the growth of certain molds. It is also known as “toxic mold syndrome” and can have a range of symptoms, from skin irritation to cognitive impairment.
What Causes Mold Toxicity?
The most common cause of mold toxicity is due to water damage or high levels of humidity. If a building has been exposed to water or consistently high levels of moisture, it can create the ideal environment for mold growth. This is because molds thrive in damp environments and can quickly reproduce and spread throughout an area if left unchecked.
However, there are some hidden causes of mold toxicity that people often overlook.
The Hidden Causes
Indoor Humidity:
High indoor humidity can trigger the growth of mold. This is particularly true in areas such as the bathroom or the kitchen where moisture levels are often high. When the humidity level exceeds 60%, mold spores can multiply, and this can result in mold toxicity. To prevent mold growth, ensure that you maintain indoor humidity levels below 50%. To achieve this, you can use dehumidifiers or install proper ventilation systems in your home.
Contaminated HVAC System:
Your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can be a breeding ground for mold. This is because mold spores can be trapped in the air ducts and then circulated throughout your home. If your HVAC system is contaminated, you will experience mold toxicity symptoms even if there is no visible mold in your home. To prevent this, have your HVAC system inspected and cleaned regularly.
Water Damage:
Water damage is another leading cause of mold toxicity. Whether it is a leaky roof, a burst pipe, or a flood, water damage can create the perfect environment for mold to grow. If you experience water damage in your home, it is important to act fast and hire a professional to assess the damage and clean up any mold growth as soon as possible.
Poor Ventilation:
Poor ventilation is a common cause of mold toxicity in homes. Areas such as the attic, basement, and crawl spaces are susceptible to poor ventilation because they are often neglected. When these spaces lack proper ventilation, humidity can build up, which leads to mold growth. To prevent mold growth, ensure that the ventilation systems in your home are working properly, and these spaces are adequately ventilated.
Lifestyle Habits:
Your lifestyle habits can also contribute to mold toxicity. For example, if you keep wet clothes or towels in a closed closet, this can create a breeding ground for mold. Similarly, if you have a habit of leaving food out for extended periods, this can also contribute to mold growth. To prevent the build-up of mold in your home, ensure that you adopt healthy lifestyle habits such as proper food storage, cleaning up any spills or leaks as quickly as possible, and keeping your home well-ventilated.
Symptoms
A mold allergy causes the same signs and symptoms that occur in other types of upper respiratory allergies. Signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis caused by a mold allergy can include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Cough and postnasal drip
- Itchy eyes, nose and throat
- Watery eyes
- Dry, scaly skin
Mold allergy symptoms vary from person to person and range from mild to severe. You might have year-round symptoms or symptoms that flare up only during certain times of the year. You might notice symptoms when the weather is damp or when you’re in indoor or outdoor spaces that have high concentrations of mold.
Detoxification Treatment Options
Dr. Tara specializes in identifying mold toxicity and creating a treatment plan. She can help with locating possible exposures. She can also provide guidance on the following:
- Detoxing your home
- Testing for mold toxicity in the air, water, or blood.
- Implementing lifestyle changes to reduce exposure to mold toxins
- Identifying and eliminating food sensitivities caused by mold
- Treatments such as supplements and detoxification protocols that can help rid the body of accumulated mold toxins
- Creating a personalized diet and supplement plan to support the body during the detoxification process
If you’re suffering from chronic illnesses that may be due to mold toxicity, reach out to Dr. Tara for further help. She can create a tailored treatment plan for your health condition based on your individual needs. With her expertise in identifying the underlying causes of chronic illnesses, she can help you heal and rebuild your immune system.
Mold toxicity is a serious health concern that should not be taken lightly. By understanding the hidden causes of mold toxicity and taking proactive steps to prevent it, you can ensure that your home and body are safe from its harmful effects.
Make an Appointment with Functional Healing with Dr. Tara
If you think you may have mold toxicity, don’t wait to take action. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Tara and get the help you need today. With her expertise in functional medicine and nutrition, she can help you identify the underlying causes of your health condition and create a personalized treatment plan just for you. From finding hidden sources of mold exposure to providing helpful detoxification protocols, Dr. Tara is committed to helping you improve your health and wellbeing. Contact our office today and start on the path to better health.
