Contents
Introduction to Toxic Mold
Toxic mold, aka “black mold” is a pervasive problem that can significantly threaten both our physical health and mental wellbeing. Mold can grow in damp, dark environments, and once it starts to spread, it can lead to various health issues. Understanding the risks associated with toxic mold is crucial for maintaining a healthy living space and safeguarding our overall wellbeing.
Effects of Toxic Mold on Physical Health
The presence of toxic mold in homes can lead to a myriad of physical health problems. Exposure can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and other severe illnesses. Symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and skin irritation are common among those exposed to mold spores. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, like asthma or weakened immune systems, may experience exacerbated symptoms. Long-term exposure can result in chronic lung conditions and may even affect organ health. Hence, it is crucial to control mold growth to prevent serious health complications.
Personal Anecdote on Toxic Mold
On a personal note, I was exposed to toxic mold when I was 25 and living in a studio apartment in Florida that was in need of renovation due to the building being built in the 1950s. The toxic mold grew as black spots on my ceiling that became larger over time. I will briefly summarize the events that transpired so you can learn from my health journey.
Around March 2020, I (ironically) graduated with my Masters degree in public health and was offered a job at a medical cannabis warehouse. Around this time, I developed recurring nosebleeds and sinus symptoms followed by coughing and eye problems. At work, I was required to wear a face mask and goggles daily due to the COVID-19 pandemic so my occupation did not seem to explain my symptoms. In June 2020 I was diagnosed with scleritis and keratitis, inflammation of the sclera and cornea, respectively. In short, it could have led to blindness in my left eye if not treated.
At the time, I thought the cannabis I breathed in every day at the warehouse was the cause of my medical issues. As someone with a public health background, I naturally researched the scientific literature to see if marijuana particles in the air could cause both respiratory problems and eye problems. However, my intuition (and logic) told me that this was not the culprit.
I instead looked up to see these black spots on my apartment ceiling and realized this could be the cause of this issue. So I left my job due to my disability and saw an eye doctor for proper treatment of my eye disorder. Afterwards, I moved out of this apartment to live with a family member so I could receive proper medical care.
In August 2020, I was diagnosed with ANCA-associated vasculitis which is a potentially life-threatening autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the sinuses, the eyes, and the lungs. I cannot prove or disprove whether toxic mold caused my disease but it did seem to exacerbate the medical symptoms I experienced. Fortunately, my disease has been in remission since 2021 and I know my two relocations since that time have had positive impacts on my health.
All in all, this experience made me realize I could change my health by ensuring my indoor air conditioning, air quality, and humidity were at the proper levels. My health improved as soon as I relocated and started on an infusion treatment regimen.
I gained total control over my disease not only by starting my medical treatment but also by controlling these environmental factors and thinking positively about the progress I was making on my health journey. My health changed in a positive direction as soon as I used the Law of Attraction to manifest positive changes in my health and then taking logical action in terms of improving my living environment. If you are interested, I explain the Law of Attraction in great detail here.
Currently, all that is known is that this disease was triggered by my environment as my family has no history of this condition. ANCA-Associated Vasculitis is a very rare disease and is believed to be caused by a chronic infection that the immune system cannot fully resolve. People exposed to toxic mold often report coughing and respiratory problems as well as sinus pain and recurring infections.
If you find yourself experiencing unexplained health issues and suspect environmental factors, it’s crucial to investigate your living conditions thoroughly. Seek professional help to test for mold and other potential hazards in your home. Additionally, consult with a healthcare provider promptly to address any symptoms and consider relocating to a safer environment if necessary.
Mental Health Implications of Toxic Mold
Aside from physical health concerns, toxic mold can also negatively impact our mental health. People exposed to mold may experience heightened anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. I personally experienced these in my health journey. The stress of dealing with health issues and mold remediation can lead to feelings of helplessness and frustration. All in all, the correlation between environmental stressors and mental wellbeing highlights the importance of maintaining a clean, mold-free environment.
Addressing Mold Issues in Your Home
To tackle mold problems in the home, it is essential first to identify and eliminate sources of moisture. Regularly inspecting places prone to dampness, such as basements and bathrooms, and ensuring proper ventilation are vital steps. When mold is found, it’s crucial to clean it thoroughly, using appropriate mold removal techniques. For significant infestations, seeking professional help may be necessary to ensure all mold is safely removed. You may also consider leaving your living space altogether and move to a new location. Taking these proactive measures can help mitigate the risks associated with toxic mold in our living spaces.
