'/%3e%3c!--%20Compass%20outer%20ring%20--%3e%3ccircle%20cx='128'%20cy='128'%20r='80'%20fill='none'%20stroke='%23ffffff'%20stroke-width='8'%20opacity='0.25'/%3e%3c!--%20Compass%20needle%20-%20North%20(gold)%20--%3e%3cpath%20d='M128%2056%20L144%20128%20L128%20116%20L112%20128%20Z'%20fill='url(%23accent)'/%3e%3c!--%20Compass%20needle%20-%20South%20(white)%20--%3e%3cpath%20d='M128%20200%20L144%20128%20L128%20140%20L112%20128%20Z'%20fill='%23ffffff'%20opacity='0.85'/%3e%3c!--%20Center%20circle%20--%3e%3ccircle%20cx='128'%20cy='128'%20r='12'%20fill='url(%23accent)'/%3e%3ccircle%20cx='128'%20cy='128'%20r='6'%20fill='%230d4a4f'/%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
Common Symptoms of Black Mold Exposure
Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) and other mold species can cause a range of symptoms. The most common include:
Respiratory
- Coughing and wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Chest tightness
Allergic Reactions
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Skin rashes or hives
- Postnasal drip
Respiratory Symptoms in Detail
Respiratory symptoms are the most common reaction to mold exposure. The severity depends on:
- How much mold is present
- How long you've been exposed
- Your individual sensitivity
- Whether you have pre-existing conditions
Asthma and Mold
People with asthma are particularly vulnerable. Mold exposure can:
- Trigger asthma attacks
- Make existing asthma worse
- Cause asthma to develop in children
- Reduce the effectiveness of asthma medications
If you have asthma and suspect mold exposure, see our detailed guide on mold and asthma.
Chronic Sinus Issues
Ongoing mold exposure can lead to chronic sinusitis, with symptoms including:
- Persistent nasal congestion
- Facial pressure and pain
- Reduced sense of smell
- Thick nasal discharge
Other Reported Symptoms
Beyond respiratory issues, people report various other symptoms from mold exposure:
Neurological Symptoms
- Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating ("brain fog")
- Memory problems
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Other Physical Symptoms
- Eye irritation and redness
- Skin irritation or rashes
- General fatigue and weakness
- Muscle aches
- Sensitivity to light
Who Is Most at Risk?
Some people are more vulnerable to mold-related health effects:
Higher Risk Groups
- Infants and young children
- Elderly individuals
- People with asthma or allergies
- Those with weakened immune systems
- People with chronic lung diseases
- Individuals undergoing chemotherapy
Occupational Risk
- Agricultural workers
- Construction workers
- Mill and lumber workers
- Greenhouse employees
- Anyone working in damp buildings
Learn more about vulnerable populations and mold.
Symptom Timeline
Immediate Reactions (Minutes to Hours)
- Sneezing and runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Throat irritation
- Mild coughing
Short-Term Exposure (Days to Weeks)
- Worsening respiratory symptoms
- Persistent cough
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Skin irritation
Prolonged Exposure (Weeks to Months)
- Chronic sinus infections
- Recurring respiratory infections
- Ongoing fatigue
- Persistent allergic symptoms
- Potential development of asthma
When to See a Doctor
Seek Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Difficulty breathing or severe shortness of breath
- Wheezing that doesn't improve with inhaler
- Fever along with respiratory symptoms
- Persistent cough lasting more than 2 weeks
- Blood in mucus or sputum
- Symptoms that significantly worsen at home
What to Tell Your Doctor
For more guidance, see our complete guide on when to see a doctor for mold exposure.
What to Do If You Have Symptoms
Immediate Steps
- Reduce exposure: Spend time away from the affected area
- Document symptoms: Note when they started and severity
- Inspect your home: Look for visible mold or water damage
- Check for patterns: Do symptoms improve away from home?
Next Steps
- See a doctor if symptoms are severe or persistent
- Get a professional mold inspection if you suspect hidden mold
- Address any water damage or moisture problems immediately
- Don't disturb visible mold—this can spread spores