Mold is a type of fungus that can tax even the healthiest immune systems because the spores are ever-present in the air. Those who already suffer from asthma, psoriasis and eczema will experience a worsening of symptoms.

• Asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis
• Legionnaire’s disease
• Fatigue and weakness
• Headache, light sensitivity
• Poor memory, difficult word finding
• Difficulty concentrating
• Morning stiffness, joint pain
• Unusual skin sensations, tingling and numbness
• Shortness of breath, sinus congestion or chronic cough
• Appetite swings
• Increased urinary frequency or increased thirst
• Red eyes, blurred vision, sweats, mood swings, sharp pains
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating
• Tearing, disorientation, metallic taste in mouth
• Static shocks
• Vertigo, feeling lightheaded

Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a sickness that is caused by working or living in a building that is suspected to be caused by poor air quality. Thirty percent of new and remodeled buildings have poor indoor air quality, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. SBS has a multitude of symptoms, making a diagnosis a challenge. If a person feels much better after leaving a building, they are most likely suffering from SBS.

Impact of SBS

• Skin issues
• Respiratory distress
• Neurological challenges

SBS affects everyone differently, given long-term or repeated exposure varies. The condition is usually temporary after the building’s issues have been addressed.

Our four-legged family members spend more time in the house than we do. As a result of breathing in mold spores and their compact immune systems, their lung capillaries are weakened. This can result in potential ruptures and hemorrhages.

Symptoms of pet distress due to mold

• decreased appetite
• not wanting to be active
• licking, chewing and/or scratching
• hair loss
• sores
• wheezing/difficulty breathing

If you suspect mold might be the culprit when your pet is sick, get them to the vet immediately. Once done, schedule mold remediation and inspection.