ALLERGY BRIEFS

Exposure to mold, health hazards & symptoms

January 23, 2003

I lived with black mold streaming out of my air vents and growing on my carpet in my apartment for 5 years. I couldn't get the manager to resolve the situation properly so I had to move. I was wondering if the mold could be a cause for migraine headaches and pelvic pain. I have suffered with pelvic pain for 3 years that doctor's can't diagnose. -- Beth, Pennsylvania

I'm frequently asked about symptoms that may be related to mold. Most authorities agree that repeated exposure to certain types of mold is not healthy.

However, there are no consistent guidelines in this area. Many of the physicians I've talked with feel the problems of toxic mold are overstated. Others are concerned that there is a real danger related to toxic mold exposure.

Obviously it is a wise decision to move from an apartment that has visible mold or moisture problems unless these problems are remedied. But until more controlled studies are available to show the effects of mold, there will be varying opinions on this topic among the health care community.

For a listing of symptoms some have thought may be related to mold exposure, but are considered "unproven" by others, see:
Living with mold -- health hazards

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