Some people are more sensitive to black mold than others, making their symptoms more severe.
This article explains black mold toxicity, symptoms of exposure and treatment, removing black mold, and more.
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How Toxic Is Black Mold?
Olga Dobrovolska / Getty Images
Many people wonder if black mold is deadly.
The good news is that it rarely is.
However, black mold can trigger allergies,asthma, and hypersensitivity in some people.
Amount of Black Mold
Its difficult to quantify how much mold will cause symptoms.
That’s because every person and their sensitivity levels are different.
What causes symptoms in one person may cause no notable symptoms in another.
Again, because everyone is different, there is no definitive timeline after exposure of when symptoms might occur.
Deadly or Not?
Toxic mold syndrome has not been proven.
Symptoms include nasal congestion, itchy and watery eyes, or worsening asthma symptoms.
Consult with an allergist if you experience severe symptoms or difficulty breathing.
Black mold has the following characteristics:
You’ll likely smell black mold before you see it.
It’s common for the mold to grow behind walls and under sinks.
Favorable Black Mold House Conditions
Mold grows in moist places.
Once inside, it will continue to grow.
The humidity levels in your home should be between 30% and 50%.
An air-conditioner and dehumidifier can help keep humidity levels low during warmer months.
Ensure your kitchen and bathroom have installed and functioning ventilation systems to remove humid air while showering and cooking.
Summary
Black mold can cause allergy and asthma symptoms.
It grows in damp places, such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and anywhere there are leaks.
With proper precautions, you’re free to usually remove black mold yourself at home.
However, more extensive areas may require professional help.
American Lung Association.Combating mold and preventing asthma symptoms.
University of Wyoming.Facts about mold.
Borchers AT, Chang C, Eric Gershwin M.Mold and human health: A reality check.Clin Rev Allergy Immunol.
OSHA.com.Identifying mold types: What colors are mold and mildew?
American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.Mold allergies.
Environmental Protection Agency.Mold cleanup in your home.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Basic facts about mold and dampness.
