Molds are microscopic fungi that live on plant or animal matter. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more. Most are filamentous organisms and the production of spores is characteristic of fungi in general. These spores can be air-, water-, or insect-borne.

• Stachybotrys
• Cladosporium
• Penicillium/Aspergillus
• Alternaria
• Chaetomium
• Mucor

The problem of mold has been around for centuries. As you will read below the method and need to deal with has changed little in 3500 years. We still must fix the moisture source and remove the contaminated areas. Our ability to identify invisible toxic spores and take the necessary steps to remediate has improved vastly.

Leviticus, Chapter 14:39 - 47

"On the 7^th day the priest shall return to inspect the house. If mildew has spread on the walls, he is ordered that the contaminated stones be torn out and thrown into an unclean place outside of town. If the mildew reappears in the house after the stones have been torn out and the house is scraped and plastered, it is destructive mildew and the house is unclean. It must be torn down- stones, timbers and all the plaster - and taken out of town."

Molds can generally be divided into 3 groups based on their health effects: Allergenic, Pathogenic and Toxic.

There are many Allergenic molds that can cause allergenic or asthmatic symptoms such as wheezing or runny nose. These molds do not usually produce life-threatening effects, but are problematic for those who are already allergenic or asthmatic.

Pathogenic mold can cause serious health effects in persons with decreased immune function, taking chemotherapy, or with HIV/AIDS. Some pathogens are common. A normal, healthy individual can probably resist infection by these, but high exposures may cause reactions in the lungs.

Toxins are poisonous substances produced by living things. Those from mold (called Mycotoxins) can cause serious health effects in almost anyone. These effects may be short-term irritations, immune system problems, and even cancer.

Most of the diseases caused by Mycotoxins involve ingestion of contaminated food. Mycotoxins are contained in certain varieties of fungus spores, and these can be breathed into the body.

There is no such thing as Good vs Bad mold. Mold in your living environment should be removed; period.

Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, exposure to molds can cause symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, or wheezing. Some people, such as those with serious allergies to molds,  may have more severe reactions. Severe reactions may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of molds in occupational settings, such as farmers working around moldy hay. Severe reactions may include fever and shortness of breath. People with chronic illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may develop mold infections in their lungs.

Molds are found in virtually every environment and can be detected, both indoors and outdoors, year round. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions. Outdoors they can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoors they can be found where humidity levels are high, such as basements or showers.

Mold Glossary