Black Mold Health Risks to Children

Black mold is a type of a fungus that develops and thrives in humid places. Any damp areas, or areas where there is a high moisture content in the air, are likely to observe the development of this fungus. It develops in places such as walls, carpets, ceilings, thermal insulation, etc. It is scientifically known as Stachybotrys chartarum (Stachybotrys atra).

The various health effects of this fungus are caused due to the spores they contain, which carry a toxic substance known as mycotoxin. When inhaled, they enter the body and cause different reactions in different people.

They may also enter the body through a cut in the skin or sores. Furthermore, it spreads in the house by means of air conditioning. Here, the various health risks to children due to this fungus are discussed.

Children are more prone to develop allergies and other such reactions due to the presence of black mold because their immune systems are not completely developed. According to various studies, such allergies make them further prone to other infections later in life.

Also, pregnant women, elderly people with weakened immune systems, infants, and those who have a history of various allergies are at a risk of developing various ill effects due to exposure to black mold.

Given below is a list of the most common effects.

• One of the most common effect is the development of allergies in the form of skin irritation, which appears as skin rash, open sores, etc.

• Respiratory conditions are another outcome of exposure to black mold, as children inhale these spores that are present in their environment. These symptoms may develop in the form of shortness of breath, dry cough, congestion of the nasal passages, wheezing, and a sore throat.

• Children with extremely sensitive immune system, are likely to experience stronger symptoms due to exposure to this fungus. For instance, instead of a simple cough or bout of wheezing, they may develop severe asthma, which may require immediate hospitalization.

• Fatigue, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and body aches including frequent headaches are noticed at an advanced stage.

• Children may experience irritation in the eye in the form of light sensitivity, blurred vision, watering of eyes, and red eyes as a symptom of sensitivity to this mold.

• If the symptoms go undetected for a long period, they may get worse. It may lead to loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss, short-term memory loss and other neurological disorders, and even coughing up of blood.

It is important to keep in mind that, while these are some of the most common health risks, every child's immune system is different, and therefore, how he/she reacts to black mold spores may vary.

Moreover, these symptoms overlap with the symptoms of several other conditions. However, if any of these symptoms are observed, then do not ignore them. Have your child tested, and also ensure that you undertake various methods for detecting and removing black mold from your house.

Disclaimer: This post is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical expert.