The health risks of having a moldy unfinished basement.

Mold Spores

Mold is not just an ugly sight that can ruin clothing or furniture; it is a health hazard that can seriously contaminate the air you breathe. Mold produces microscopic cells called "spores" that can be spread through air, water, or even on the bodies of insects. Some people are more sensitive to mold than others. There does not have to be an extensive amount of mold in an area to affect certain people.

Mold Related Symptoms

- Causes allergic reactions
- Triggers asthma attacks
- Increases susceptibility to colds and flu
- Causes sinus infections

Health Risks
- Infants
- Children
- Immune-compromised patients
- Pregnant women
- People who have respiratory problems
- People with allergies or asthma
- The elderly

Toxic Mold such as Stachybotrys and Memnoniella can cause serious and sometimes fatal health conditions. Remember that all molds can be harmful to your health, especially in your home and especially to people with allergies.

- You may develop a skin rash.
- Flu like symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, fever, headaches, abdominal pain and diarrhea may occur.
- Can induce serious respiratory problems.
- Causes eye irritation.
- May cause wheezing or shortness or breath.

People with chronic illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may develop mold infections in their lungs.

Toxic Mold Exposure

Symptoms of black mold or toxic mold exposure may not seem life threatening at the onset. Over time, more serious illnesses may develop.
Nasal Congestion

- Irritation of the eyes
- Inflammation of the sinuses
- Irritation of the skin
- Breathlessness
- Headache
- Runny nose
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Hoarseness

More serious symptoms
- Inflammation of the ear
- Bleeding Lungs
- Nose Bleeds
- Memory Loss
- Arthralgia ( Pain in the joints without swelling )

Types of Mold

Mold Infestation
Mold infestation can be obvious or it can be hidden in places behind walls and underneath appliances. Occupants often become sick from exposure before a mold problem is even suspected.

Common Household Mold
- Cladosporium
- Penicillium
- Aspergillus
- Alternaria
- Mucor

According to a 1999 Mayo Clinic Study, nearly all chronic sinus infections (afflicting 37 million Americans) are a result of molds.
A 300% increase in the asthma rate over the past 20 years has been linked to molds. (According to 1999 USA Today Cover Story)