SANDUSKY, Ohio - Although molds are present naturally in our environment, exposure to certain types of airborne mold spores can cause allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory problems in some people. Health impacts from mold and mildew may also occur when individuals are exposed to large doses of mycotoxins, which are chemicals produced from the molds.

"In this age when we're hearing so much about mold in the news, it's important for homeowners not to panic because only a few types of molds are truly harmful," says Jon Fields, President of RestorePro.

Mr. Fields addresses some common health questions relating to mold exposure below:

Q: What is Stachybotrys and how can I tell if this is growing in my house?

A: Stachybotrys is a black, slimy mold that needs abundant moisture in order to grow. It grows on wet materials containing cellulose, such as paper, wood, cardboard, wallboard, ceiling tiles, drywall, wallpaper and newspaper. This particular mold releases a toxic substance that can cause serious illness in young children. Although media reports of Stachybotrys have recently come to light, experts believe this mold is relatively rare and occurs only when cellulose products have been wet for several days. The only way to identify mold is by laboratory analysis.

Q: How can I find out if I've been exposed to mold?

A: A blood test will reveal a person’s level of antibodies to a particular fungus. If antibodies are present in the test results, this may mean a person has been exposed to that particular fungus at some point in time. However, these antibodies, by themselves, do not indicate the presence of disease. These antibodies also do not indicate the source, place or time of exposure to fungi. Since exposure to fungi routinely occurs in both outdoor and indoor environments, these tests have limited value in establishing links between mold exposure and particular health symptoms.

Q: How accurate are blood tests for exposure to mold?

A: The antibody tests for Stachybotrys chartarum is not widely used due to the uncertainty in the interpretation of results. In one study, only four out of 48 people possibly exposed to the mold had elevated antibodies. In another study, occupants from a fungal contaminated building were given blood tests and compared to a group of other people who had no history of exposure to mold growth. These studies found no difference in the antibody levels between these two groups.

Q: What can I do if I am concerned about mold exposure?

A: Although no test currently exists that proves an association between Stachybotrys chartarum and particular health symptoms, we encourage people with persistent health problems to consult their physician if they believe their illness is caused by exposure to mold.

Ohio-based RestorePro is an IICRC and EEF certified firm that specializes in structural drying, water, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold remediation, sewage back-up remediation, carpet & upholstery cleaning, and other emergency disaster restoration services, including full reconstruction.

For additional information on this subject, contact Jon Fields at 419-624-0198