Understanding Mold and Mycotoxins – What They Are and Why They Matter
Living in the PNW, it's quite difficult to avoid mold.
You may see it growing on trees, window sills, in basements, on plants, and even in bathrooms. What many don’t realize is that mold thrives in a variety of environments and surfaces—as long as there's enough moisture, organic matter, and the right temperature.
Mold reproduces by releasing tiny spores into the air, which can settle on surfaces and form new colonies. It only needs three things to grow: moisture, food, and warmth.
Moisture: Leaky pipes, flooding, high humidity, and condensation
Organic matter: Wood, paper, carpet, fabric—even dust or skin cells can feed mold
More About Mold Growth and Mycotoxins
Once spores are present, mold can grow quickly—spreading visible colonies and releasing additional spores. It thrives in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, HVAC systems, cars, plants, and upholstered areas.
But mold doesn’t just stop at being a nuisance.
Mold produces mycotoxins—toxic compounds used as a defense mechanism against competing organisms. These mycotoxins are produced by fungi like Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium, and they can harm our health in many ways.
How Mycotoxins Affect the Body
When humans are exposed—through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact—mycotoxins can:
Disrupt cellular function
Damage DNA
Inhibit the immune system
Contribute to liver, kidney, and gut issues
Trigger inflammation and oxidative stress (ROS)
Common Symptoms of Mold Toxicity Include:
Respiratory: Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath
Allergies: Sneezing, itchy eyes, sinus congestion
Fatigue and headaches
Immune dysfunction & autoimmunity
Hormonal imbalance
Skin rashes and irritation
Digestive upset: Nausea, bloating, diarrhea
Cognitive and mood issues: Brain fog, memory trouble, anxiety, depression
Exposure Sources to Watch For:
Inhalation: Cleaning, demolition, gardening
Ingestion: Moldy grains, nuts, fruits, vegetables
Water damage: Leaky buildings, flooding
Skin contact: Walls, carpets, clothing
Occupational: Farming, construction, mold remediation