Unheated homes are at risk of becoming breeding grounds for damp which can impact physical and mental well-being, say doctors. A leading medic has urged Brits to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of mould toxicity, a condition which involves an individual becoming overexposed to mould and falling ill as a result.
Breathing difficulties including asthma and shortness of breath are common symptoms. Lesser-known symptoms, however, can include sexual dysfunction, extreme headaches and mood changes.
GP Dr Chun Tang is Medical Director at private healthcare clinic Pall Mall. He said: “Mould is a biotoxin – a poison produced by living organisms.
“There are many physical symptoms of mould toxicity, but reports have shown there could also have psychiatric effects. Research has suggested that mould exposure could trigger numerous brain-related issues, from memory loss to increased anxiety.
“And as millions of people face the stark reality of choosing between heating and eating this winter, the health fallouts of living in damp conditions could cause additional health problems that will add extra strain to the NHS,” added Dr Tang.
Mould - also known as rising damp - occurs when there is a lack of heat and dwellings are poorly ventilated, resulting in excess moisture. This humidity causes fungus to grow in places such as walls and windows, bathrooms and cellars.
Mould is part of a common organism called fungi, which also includes mushrooms and yeast.
Common types of indoor mould include:
- Cladosporium - brown, green or black in colour, it’s found in wood, carpets and fabrics. It’s been linked to eye, ear and sinus infections as well as skin issues.
- Aspergillus - which is green, white or grey with dark spots and has a powdery look. It thrives in walls, attics, cellars and on dry food. It can be risky to people who already suffer with asthma and other respiratory complications or have a weakened immune system.
- Penicillium - a fuzzy-looking mould which is blue, green or yellow. It’s found under carpets, in cellars and in insulation and can be a threat to those with compromised immune systems.
- Stachybotrys – also known as Black Mould – is one of the most the most notorious moulds because it produces toxins called mycotoxins which are dangerous to humans and can cause respiratory issues, immune system suppression and mental impairment.
As millions face fuel poverty this winter, Dr Tang is stressing the importance of being on the lookout for mould in the home and becoming aware of the toxicity tell-tale signs too.
“Signs your home may have a mould problem include a musty, earthy smell. The distinct difference between mould patches and regular dirt is that mould will continue to grow, whereas a dirt patch will not.
“In addition to mould causing chest and breathing issues, there is a whole range of complications it can bring - especially if you’re susceptible to other allergens such as dust.
“So, it’s important to maintain good air flow in homes to avoid giving mould a chance to thrive.
“Check areas where mould can easily grow – anywhere with excess moisture including bathrooms, windows, cellars and tiles.
“People also need to be extra vigilant of their physical and mental well-being and keep an eye on symptoms which could point towards mould toxicity exposure.
“Although it’s difficult to pinpoint mould as the culprit, it’s worth bearing it in mind if you suspect your home may be damp.”
According to Allergy UK, mould spores are prolific everywhere and present themselves in a similar manner to dust allergens.
“Exposure to mould is widespread, so it’s difficult to determine how much mould an individual is exposed to in everyday life,” says the website.
“Like dust allergens, mould allergies are perennial and allergic people exhibit symptoms throughout the year, although levels rise in the autumn, during wet, mild weather and harvesting.”
Here are some lesser-known symptoms that could indicate mould toxicity:
- Mood changes
Cognitive impairments can occur when your brain is exposed to mould including fatigue, depression and anxiety. In 2007 a study unearthed a link between mould and mood.
Research suggested that toxins can affect the nervous system impeding the frontal cortex – the part that controls impulse, memory, sexual behaviour and spontaneity.
- Skin
Studies have shown that over half of people exposed to mould have experience some sort of skin rash as a result.
- Sexual dysfunction
Certain moulds have been recognised as serious hormone disruptors, displaying oestrogen-like properties which can disrupt testosterone levels affecting sexual dysfunction as a result.
- Migraines
These extreme headaches have been linked to mould exposure. They can occur as an allergic reaction to mould spores in the air. Sometimes they can be triggered by sinus pressure caused by inflammation of the sinus cavities.
