Mold Poisoning symptoms

7 Serious Mold Poisoning Symptoms Every Salt Lake City Homeowner Should Know

Mold Poisoning Symptoms are often mistaken for allergies, fatigue, or the common cold, but prolonged exposure to toxic mold can cause far more serious health problems. In Salt Lake City, fluctuating humidity, snowmelt, and hidden leaks can all create the perfect environment for mold growth inside homes.

At PuroClean of Bluffdale, we’ve helped countless Utah homeowners identify, clean, and recover from mold-related health concerns. This guide explains what mold poisoning is, the top symptoms to watch for, and when to call a certified professional before the problem gets worse.

What Is Mold Poisoning?

Mold poisoning, sometimes referred to as “mold toxicity” or “mycotoxicosis”, occurs when mold exposure leads to the buildup of harmful toxins in the body. Mold releases tiny spores and chemicals called mycotoxins that, when inhaled or ingested, can cause a wide range of health effects.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that mold exposure can cause respiratory issues, headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation (CDC). More toxic molds, like Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold), may lead to inflammation and neurological symptoms over time.

PuroClean Tip: Mold grows in damp, dark areas, behind drywall, under carpets, and in basements. If you notice musty odors or discoloration, schedule a mold inspection immediately to prevent Mold Poisoning Symptoms.

Mold Poisoning Symptoms: What to Watch for

The signs of mold poisoning can differ depending on the level and duration of exposure. However, many people experience a combination of physical and cognitive effects. Below are seven major Mold Poisoning Symptoms every Salt Lake City homeowner should be aware of.

1. Persistent Respiratory Problems


Can mold poisoning cause breathing issues?

Answer:
Yes. Inhaling mold spores can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The American Lung Association confirms that mold exposure can worsen asthma and bronchitis, especially in children and seniors (ALA).

If you find yourself coughing more often at home or struggling to breathe indoors, your air may be contaminated with mold spores. Professional air testing and remediation from PuroClean of Bluffdale can quickly identify and remove these hazards.

2. Chronic Fatigue and Muscle Weakness

One of the most overlooked Mold Poisoning Symptoms is unexplained fatigue. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that long-term exposure to mycotoxins can cause oxidative stress, leading to fatigue, weakness, and general malaise (NIH).

Mold exposure can also interfere with oxygen absorption and immune function, leaving you feeling exhausted even after a full night’s rest.

PuroClean Insight: If you or your family members feel constantly tired at home but improve when away, this could be a sign of hidden mold growth in your property.

3. Headaches, Brain Fog, and Memory Problems


Can mold poisoning affect your brain?

Answer:
Yes. Research shows that mycotoxins can cross the blood-brain barrier, causing inflammation in the central nervous system. This can result in headaches, brain fog, and even memory issues (WHO).

Many people exposed to toxic mold report difficulty concentrating, confusion, or lightheadedness. Over time, these neurological symptoms can interfere with work and daily life.

PuroClean Tip: Proper moisture control and air purification after mold remediation can significantly improve indoor air quality and cognitive well-being.

4. Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions

Mold exposure doesn’t only affect your lungs; it can also irritate your skin. According to the CDC, contact with mold spores can cause redness, itching, and rashes, particularly in people with sensitive skin or eczema (CDC).

If you experience skin irritation after spending time in damp rooms, your body may be reacting to airborne mold particles or surface contamination.

PuroClean’s Approach: During cleanup, our technicians use HEPA filtration and EPA-approved antimicrobial solutions to remove spores from both air and surfaces safely, protecting your family’s health.

5. Nausea, Dizziness, and Sinus Pain

Mold Poisoning Symptoms often resemble flu-like illnesses, including nausea, sinus congestion, and dizziness. The World Health Organization (WHO) links exposure to moldy indoor environments to increased sinus infections and general malaise (WHO).

These symptoms occur because mold spores trigger immune responses, causing inflammation in nasal passages and the gastrointestinal tract. If these issues persist even after medication, mold exposure may be the underlying cause.

PuroClean Advice: Frequent sinus infections or dizziness indoors may signal mold contamination in HVAC systems or wall cavities. Our advanced inspection tools can confirm and eliminate the problem.

6. Immune System Suppression

Prolonged mold exposure can weaken the immune system, making your body less capable of fighting infections. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) notes that mycotoxins can suppress immune response and increase vulnerability to viral or bacterial illnesses (NIOSH).

People with compromised immunity, such as the elderly, infants, or those undergoing medical treatments, are especially at risk.

PuroClean of Bluffdale uses strict containment and HEPA filtration during mold removal to eliminate airborne spores, protecting everyone in your household from future exposure.

7. Eye and Throat Irritation

Exposure to mold can inflame mucous membranes, leading to red eyes, sore throats, and post-nasal drip. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirms that mold can trigger eye irritation, runny noses, and throat discomfort, especially in damp or poorly ventilated spaces (EPA).

If you experience these symptoms that worsen indoors but improve outside, it’s time to have your home tested.

PuroClean Tip: Regularly changing air filters and maintaining proper humidity (between 30–50%) helps prevent future mold growth and reduces indoor irritants.

How to Tell If Mold Is Making You Sick


How can you tell if mold is making you sick?

Answer:
If you experience persistent coughing, fatigue, headaches, or allergy symptoms that worsen indoors and improve outside, you may be suffering from mold poisoning. A certified professional can confirm contamination through air and surface testing.

At PuroClean of Bluffdale, we specialize in comprehensive mold inspections and air quality testing to identify whether your home’s environment is contributing to your symptoms.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Mold Poisoning Symptoms

  1. See a doctor immediately. Get tested for respiratory or allergy issues related to mold exposure.
  2. Leave contaminated areas. Avoid prolonged exposure until mold removal is complete.
  3. Schedule a professional inspection. Certified experts can locate and confirm mold presence.
  4. Call PuroClean of Bluffdale at (801) 254-6204. Our team will inspect, contain, and remediate the problem using advanced technology and safety protocols.
  5. Prevent recurrence. Fix leaks, improve ventilation, and use dehumidifiers to maintain healthy indoor air.

PuroClean Promise: Our team doesn’t just remove mold; we help you understand how it started and how to prevent it from returning.

Why Salt Lake City Homes Are at Risk for Mold

While Utah is known for its dry climate, temperature fluctuations, snowmelt, and seasonal rain can trap moisture in basements, attics, and crawlspaces.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) explains that any surface damp for more than 48 hours can support mold growth (FEMA). That’s why even seemingly minor leaks or condensation issues should never be ignored.

Common sources of mold in Salt Lake City homes include:

  • Poor attic ventilation
  • Leaky plumbing or roof damage
  • Flooding from storms or snowmelt
  • Improperly sealed basements

Regular inspections by PuroClean of Bluffdale can detect early signs of contamination before they lead to health or structural damage.

Why Choose PuroClean of Bluffdale

When it comes to identifying and resolving Mold Poisoning Symptoms, experience and expertise matter. Here’s why homeowners across Salt Lake City trust PuroClean of Bluffdale:

  • Certified Technicians: IICRC-trained professionals following EPA and OSHA standards.
  • Advanced Equipment: Infrared imaging, air scrubbers, and HEPA filtration.
  • Complete Solutions: Inspection, remediation, and air quality restoration.
  • Local Expertise: Understanding Utah’s unique weather and building structures.
  • 24/7 Response: Fast, compassionate service when you need it most.

Our Guarantee: We treat your home and family’s health with the same care we’d give our own.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mold Poisoning

1. How long does it take to get sick from mold exposure?

Symptoms can appear within 24–72 hours of exposure, depending on sensitivity and the amount of mold present.

2. Can black mold be fatal?

While death from mold is rare, severe mold poisoning can cause serious respiratory and neurological complications, especially in vulnerable populations.

3. How do I know if my house is making me sick?

If your symptoms improve when away from home but worsen indoors, your air quality may be compromised.

4. Can mold poisoning be treated?

Yes. Treatment often includes medication to relieve symptoms and removal from the contaminated environment. Eliminating the mold source is crucial to recovery.

Don’t Ignore Mold Poisoning Symptoms

Mold may be silent, but its impact on your health and home can be devastating. Recognizing Mold Poisoning Symptoms early and addressing the source promptly can protect your family from serious health risks.

At PuroClean of Bluffdale, we’re Salt Lake City’s trusted experts in mold inspection, removal, and prevention. Our certified team uses advanced tools and EPA-approved techniques to restore your home’s safety and air quality.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Call PuroClean of Bluffdale today at (801) 254-6204 to schedule your professional mold inspection and remediation service.

Think mold might be making you sick? Call PuroClean of Bluffdale at (801) 254-6204 for expert mold testing, air quality restoration, and complete home remediation in Salt Lake City. Also, read our expert opinion on black mold, which is important to mold poisoning symptoms.