Spores are often thought to be the culprits in the illnesses caused by toxic mold. However, they are only the vehicle by which the real toxins are transferred. Toxic mold are named so because of the chemicals that they release. These chemicals are very harmful to humans, in many cases, even deadly.

The most deadly toxin produced by certain types of mold (including the infamous black mold) is mycotoxin. It is produced by mold that grows inside and out. Large colonies or collections of spores appear to the human eye as velvety, or slimy, black spots. By the time enough spores accumulate to the build a colony, and then the level of mycotoxin is high enough to cause harm.

Mycotoxins have been linked to liver and kidney damage, and well as infections in those areas and the lungs. It may also cause flu-like symptoms, nosebleeds, asthma, pulmonary edema, and even brain damage. The toxic mold Stachybotrys is notorious for mycotoxin production, which makes this mold the most harmful.

Mycotoxin isn’t the only deadly chemical produced by toxic molds. The black mold fusarium produces trichothecene toxins which harms the nervous system and circulatory system. Another toxin produced from fusarium colonies, zearalone, attacked the female reproductive system.

Prolonged exposure to any indoor mold can lead to serious injuries such as keratitis (severe inflammation of the cornea), internal bleeding, pneumonia, and many types of infection. There has even been a connection between mold and pulmonary hemorrhaging in newborns.

Infants, those of advanced age, small children, and the immune suppressed all are highly susceptible to serious illness due to mold contamination. Prolonged exposure to any of these people can result in chronic and even fatal illness. Immediate eradication of mold is therefore essential in the homes of the high susceptibility group.

Some medical professionals contend that there is no concrete connection between toxic mold exposure and serious illness; however, physicians who are familiar with mold cases have been able to prove otherwise. Again immediate action should be taken to rid the property any type of mold. Those who have had prolonged exposure to mold should seek medical attention. Only professional should attempt to clean up a mold colony. The chances of infection and severe illness are great when the colony is agitated, and therefore should not be attempted by nonprofessionals.