Stachybotrys chartarum is a typical black fungus. The colour might also be greenish. It is found on cotton, wood, and paper. It occasionally creates poisonous compounds that can be detected in its airborne spores and bits of fungus. These are known as mycotoxins and are toxic if consumed. There is no association between inhaled mycotoxins from Stachybotrys chartarum and fatal illnesses. However, those with allergies, asthma, and other hypersensitivities face dangers.

Regardless of the species of mould in question, the symptoms of a mould allergy can manifest in a fairly similar manner, especially when examining a large number of individuals. Therefore, if you observe black mould (or mould with a greenish hue, as Stachybotrys can also appear in this colour) and feel allergy symptoms, it could be Stachybotrys or another type of mould. However, the same individual may react differently to several moulds.

Normal allergenic effects of mould

The CDC cites the following symptoms that mould in general (not only black mould) may induce in persons who are susceptible to it:

• Eye or skin sensitivity
• Nasal stuffiness
• Throat inflammation
• To cough or wheeze

For individuals with mould allergies or asthma, exposure to any type of mould may induce more severe symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Respiratory difficulties

Mould can cause a variety of illnesses in addition to the well-known allergies to mould, including:

• General irritation
• Infection
• Systemic inflammatory diseases
• Toxicity

Individuals who are more prone to be harmed by mould

In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information regarding who is at a greater risk for developing mould infections. When exposed to any sort of mould, the following groups of people have a higher risk of developing serious illnesses caused by mould in their lungs:

• Individuals undergoing treatment for cancer
• Individuals who have had organ or stem cell transplantation
• Those whose immune systems are suppressed by immunosuppressants.
• Those with a damaged immune system are susceptible to illness (immune-compromised)

In addition, there are a wide variety of modifiable factors that can either enhance or decrease your sensitivity to mould. Some examples of these factors are as follows:

• Comorbid illnesses
• Detox potential
• Duration of exposure,
• Genetics
• Immune system performance
• Method of exposure (inhalation vs ingestion)
• Mould and mycotoxin exposure types,
• Nutritional status

Observable signs and symptoms of being poisoned by black mould

Exposure to black mould is frequently accompanied by the normal allergy symptoms outlined above. One must be aware, however, that other non-allergic, mould-related disorders exist and may present similarly to a mould allergy, albeit with symptoms that are often more seemingly unrelated.

These non-allergic reactions to mould (particularly black mould) may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Anxiety
• Balance difficulties
• Circulation issues
• Cognitive impairment
• Depression
• Digestive problems
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Joint discomfort
• Mental fog
• Muscular pain
• Neurological problems
• Sleep disturbance
• Swelling
• Vision alterations

Mould allergies and exposure symptoms may be treated with:

• Nasal sprays or rinses. OTC nasal corticosteroids, such as fluticasone, decrease the inflammation of the airways caused by mould allergies. Additionally, rinsing your nasal passages with a mix of warm, distilled water and salt can help eliminate congestion and mould spores.
• OTC medicines. Antihistamines, such as cetirizine or loratadine, suppress the immunological response, thereby minimising airway inflammation. Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, aid in reducing edema caused by allergic responses.
• This oral drug minimises mucus in the airways, hence reducing the symptoms of mould allergies and asthma.
• Anti-allergy injections. To gradually acclimate your immune system to allergens, your physician may advise you to receive regular allergen-containing injections.

The best approach to prevent mould from aggravating asthma or allergies is to avoid it. When avoidance is impossible, therapy can help manage symptoms. If you have any queries (Soalan) or concerns about mould allergies or black mould poisoning, please consult a physician or other medical specialist.