Is Mold Harmful to Our Brain?
Is Mold Harmful to Our Brain?
Much has been publicized about upper respiratory symptoms and allergic reactions that are caused by exposure to mold. The more deadly effects of mold have recently been brought to light with devastating reports that, while in the care of Seattle Children’s Hospital, at least 14 children developed Aspergillus infections: six of the children have died. Reports revealed the hospital had been contaminated with Aspergillus mold since 2001. They say that the mold came from the air handling units in the operating rooms.
Persistent Mold
Newer construction methods and materials, water damage that was not properly addressed, high indoor humidity levels, and genetics are all factors that play a role in whether a person becomes sick from mold. Estimates vary, but some research shows that up to 85 percent of buildings inspected had past water damage. According to reports, aspergillus infections that happen while a patient is in the hospital aren’t widely reported or identified and little is known about Aspergillus in hospital HVAC systems.
The Effects of Mold to Our Brain
The toxin-producing “black mold” Stachybotrys, as well as other neurotoxic molds, including Aspergillus, Chaetonium, and Wallemia, can have a dramatic effect on the brain and behavior. Researchers say the symptoms are similar to those from bacterial or viral infections, due to the inflammatory forces that mold triggers.
A new study found that people affected by mold illness experienced:
- Brain inflammation in the hippocampus
- Decreased formation of new brain cells
- Impaired memory
- Increased sensitivity to pain
- Inability to concentrate
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Irritability
- Headache
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Mold Rage
Mold rage?
Yes, you read that correctly: Mold Rage. Scientists are now finding increasing evidence that mold can cause behavioral and neurological problems such as aggression and psychosis. It can be especially dangerous for people who are already struggling, making it more difficult for people to manage their emotions and behaviors. It’s not something to be taken lightly.
Research Needed
Mold illness is often an overlooked trigger of chronic health problem. The effects of mold illness on the brain have gone largely dismissed due to insufficient research on the neurological effects of mold illness. Unfortunately, if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms and go to your primary care physician or a mental health professional, there is about a 99.9% chance that mold will not be considered as a possible cause. It is simply not on the radar screen of the majority of physicians.
However, the study mentioned above demonstrates what people with mold illness already know — it messes with your brain. Hopefully similar studies will follow.
Addressing mold illness
You must take action to deal with mold illness if you believe that you or your loved ones have been exposed to toxic mold. Without action, the inflammation will continue to ravage your system and progressively damage the brain and body.
The best way to protect the body is to remove it from the source of exposure. Please consult with Water Extraction Experts to properly remove toxic mold from your home.
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