What are the potential health effects from mold and other biological pollutants?

Allergic reactions are the most common health problem associated with mold and other biological pollutants. People differ in their sensitivity to biological allergens -- some may have no symptoms, while sensitive persons may have severe health problems. Common symptoms include watery eyes, runny nose and sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing, headache, dizziness and fatigue.

The most severe reaction to allergens is an asthma attack, which can be life-threatening. The American Lung Association reports there are nearly 10 million people in the U.S. with asthma. Of these, over 2.5 million are children. The number of persons with asthma has been consistently increasing over the last 15 years. Airborne biological pollutants present a special risk to people with allergies and asthma. While these pollutants do not cause asthma, certain pollutants can trigger an attack in people who have asthma.

Some of the health effects associated with biological contaminants include:

• Some biological contaminants may trigger allergic reactions.
• Some may also cause more serious allergic responses including hypersensitivity pneumonitis, allergic rhinitis, and some types of asthma. Allergic reactions occur only after repeated exposure to a specific biological allergen. However, that reaction may occur immediately upon reexposure or after multiple exposures over time. As a result, people who have noticed only mild allergic reactions, or none at all, may suddenly find themselves very sensitive to particular allergens.
• Infectious diseases, such as influenza, measles, tuberculosis, and chicken pox, are transmitted through the air.
• Some molds and mildews can release disease-causing toxins. These toxins can damage a variety of organs and tissues in the body, including the liver, central nervous system, digestive tract, and immune system.
• Some diseases, like humidifier fever, can be traced to microorganisms that grow in home heating and cooling systems, although it is not certain whether the disease is an allergic reaction or a toxic response.
• Symptoms of exposure to biological contaminants include sneezing, watery eyes, coughing, shortness of breath, dizziness, lethargy, fever, and digestive problems. Children, elderly people, and people with breathing problems, allergies, and lung diseases are particularly susceptible to disease-causing biological agents in the indoor air.

If you are experiencing and health related symptoms it is important to talk to your doctor as soon as possible to discuss potential treatment options.

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