The hidden threat of mold and how to protect yourself

WASHINGTON — It’s a hidden threat that could be lurking right inside your home: Mold. And while it might just look like an eyesore on your walls or ceiling, experts say it can pose a serious risk to your health.

Mold spreads tiny spores through the air that can trigger sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and breathing issues. For people with asthma or allergies, the effects can be even worse.

Dr. Gary Kaplan, founder of the Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine, says mold exposure can lead to a wide range of symptoms that go beyond what most people expect. 

“Respiratory symptoms, especially asthma is probably the biggest one, chronic sinusitis, so nasal congestion, uh, if you’re finding a lot of skin irritation, you might want to wonder whether or not that’s secondary to mold exposure in your environment.,” Dr. Kaplan explained. “So those are the big things that you can see, but the other thing is, are you having fatigue, headaches, chronic illnesses, and are you seeing weaknesses potentially in the immune system?” 

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Here in the D.C. region, mold is around all year long, but counts typically spike between May and October, especially after rain or fog, according to Susan Kosisky, Chief, Microbiologist and Director, Aerobiological Reporting and Evaluation with the US Army Centralized Allergen Extract Lab.

“Leaves falling from the trees and decaying organic matter provide a nice substrate for many different fungal species in Autumn.  The longer, cooler nights also facilitate fungal growth and increased concentrations of spores in the air that we breathe,” said Kosisky.

Mold plays a natural role outdoors, helping break down dead trees and leaves,  but indoors it becomes a problem.

Once spores enter a home, they can grow quickly on damp surfaces and often hide in places like:

• Bathrooms and kitchens

• Basements and attics

• Around windows

• Inside HVAC systems
  

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In his practice, Dr. Kaplan says he often sees patients struggling with lingering health problems that may be connected to mold and the toxins it produces.

“In my practice, we see a lot of chronic pain, chronic illness, chronic fatigue problems,” Kaplan said.  “And a lot of those people have had problems with mycotoxins. And I know this is more controversial, but we find that when we address the mycotoxin component of the mold in their in their system, that we also are able to get an immune system functioning healthier,” he said. 

The good news is, you can take steps to protect yourself and your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says the key to controlling mold is controlling moisture.

Here’s what you can do:

• Keep indoor humidity managed.

• Fix leaks promptly.

• Clean and dry any water-damaged areas within 24 to 48 hours.

• Use ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms.

Mold may be a part of nature, but it doesn’t belong in your home. With a little attention to moisture and ventilation, you can help keep your living spaces and your lungs,  healthy and mold-free.