Toxic Black Mold Syndrome

Stachybotrys, commonly called black mold or toxic black mold comes from the family of molds, but it is basically fungi. These molds thrive in places where there is a lot of moisture. Generally there is some amount of harmless mold in many houses. The problem arises when the mold which is growing, produces poisonous or toxic spores, which when inhaled, cause health problems. Now, mold development could be a result of a plumbing problem or badly-ventilated bathrooms and it usually thrives in spots where there is a lot of scope for moisture to develop. One of the health risks is toxic black mold syndrome. Here is an overview on it.

What is Toxic Black Mold Syndrome?

It is a potentially weakening ailment which affects the individuals working or living in an environment which leads to mold exposure. If the mold is of the type which produces toxic spores, then the person is said to have had toxic mold exposure.

Symptoms
Its symptoms can be really confusing, as there are other ailments which also have similar symptoms. Moreover, these can range from mild to extreme in different individuals. In some cases, when these symptoms become chronic, it is termed as toxic black mold syndrome. Mycotoxins are the secondary metabolites produced by black mold which cause these health problems. However, if the following symptoms are present in combination, then a doctor's advise must be taken.

• Sudden hair loss
• Sinus infection
• Abdominal pain
• Rashes
• Unanticipated memory loss
• Unexpected occurrence of a mental health problem
• Unexplained anxiety that was never experienced earlier
• Sore throat
• Nose bleeding
• Unexplained fatigue and tiredness
• Difficulty in breathing
• Headaches
• Numbness and pain in hands and feet
• Unstable mood
• Sudden, unexplained cough
• Rectum bleeding
• Pain all over and throughout the body without any reason
• Disturbed bowel movement

In extreme cases, the exposure to this black toxic mold could be so serious that it can cause neurological disorders, even death. Sometimes, cancer is also believed to be a result of prolonged exposure to toxic black mold. There are few more symptoms in humans, but they apparently have not been concretely proven.

Remedies
The first remedy is to get rid of the mold in the house or at the workplace, where you dwell for the most part of the day. So go in for mold removal processes in the concerned area. Dehumidifiers, exhaust fans and such, help in preventing the development of airborne particles of black mold.

Another thing which can be done is to increase the calcium and potassium in your diet. This will help the body to develop its immunity towards molds. In severe cases, with regards to respiratory problems and alleviation of asthmatic symptoms, inhalant is prescribed. Another thing that the doctors prescribe is detoxification of the body. This will help the body fight the mold allergy. In severe cases of toxic mold poisoning, the doctor can prescribe antihistamines or any other type of nasal decongestant.

Primarily, this syndrome attacks the immune system, which in turn leads to various health problems. So, one of the remedies is immunotherapy. This works just like the smallpox vaccination. The doctor injects or rather gives shots of minimal quantity of the weakened bacteria or the irritant causing the allergic reactions. Over a period of time and after a proper regimen of such shots, the body will develop its immunity against the irritant. In case the mold is non toxic, it results in cough and cold, for which you can opt for anti-allergic, over-the-counter medicines.

Finally, the best way to deal with it is to get the place mold free and if need be, hire a professional to get rid of it. Taking rest, eating healthy and taking the requisite medicines will certainly help an individual to overcome this medical condition.

I am certain that you would not let that fungus affect you or your house anymore! Take care!