Mycotoxins in Indoor Air

Mycotoxins in indoor air can be a significant health concern. Buildings with mold infestations can contain heavy concentrations of these toxic compounds. They are produced by molds, can become airborne and be inhaled, leading to various health problems. Here’s an overview of the issues related to mycotoxins in the air in buildings:

Sources of Mycotoxins in Buildings

• Mold Growth: Mycotoxins are produced by several different varieties of mold, including Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium, and Stachybotrys. These molds thrive in damp, humid environments. They can grow on various building materials, including wood, drywall, and carpeting, as well as clothes, especially leather, food, cardboard and other paper products, and furniture items.
• Water Damage: Buildings with water damage from leaks, floods, or high humidity are at higher risk for mold growth and subsequent mycotoxin production. Often, those leaks are the small and slow kind. That is, water intruding into basements and crawl spaces through foundation walls, due to improper drainage. 

Health Risks of Airborne Mycotoxins

• Respiratory Issues: Inhaling airborne mycotoxins can lead to respiratory issues, including coughing, wheezing, nasal congestion, and throat irritation.
• Allergic Reactions: Exposure can trigger allergic reactions such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rashes.
• Asthma: Mycotoxins not only aggravate asthma symptoms for those who have it, they can lead to asthma development in susceptible individuals.
• Immune System Effects: Mycotoxins can weaken the body’s immune system, making people exposed to them more susceptible to infections and other illnesses.
• Neurotoxicity: Chronic exposure to some mycotoxins may result in neurological symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and “brain fog” (impaired cognitive functioning.)
• General Toxicity: Mycotoxins can cause fatigue, nausea, and irritation of the eyes and skin.

Detection and Monitoring

• Air Sampling: Air sampling for mycotoxins is done by collecting measured air samples and having them analyzed in a testing laboratory using techniques like liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry to detect and quantify mycotoxin levels.
• Surface Sampling: Swabs and tape lifts from surfaces in the building can detect the presence of mycotoxins.
• Environmental Assessments: Professional assessments by indoor air quality experts can help identify sources of mold and mycotoxins, and recommend remediation strategies.

Prevention and Mitigation

1. Moisture Control
   • Repair any leaks in roofs, walls, and plumbing to prevent moisture buildup.
   • Divert water away from foundation walls by grading and drainage systems. Pay particular attention to gutters and downspouts - keep them clean and in good repair.
   • Use dehumidifiers to maintain indoor humidity levels below 60%, ideally between 30-50%.
   • Maintain proper ventilation in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
   • Thoroughly waterproof basements and crawl spaces with a high quality, seam sealed vapor barrier.
2. Mold Remediation
   • Wipe small amounts of mold off of surfaces with appropriate cleaning agents, such as vinegar. Larger or longer established infestations often require professional remediation. (Contact us for a free assessment of your needs.)
   • Remove Contaminated Materials: Severely contaminated materials like drywall, insulation, and carpeting may need to be removed and replaced. (NOTE: this needs to be done with appropriate safety measures, including containment to prevent mold contamination from spreading.)
3. Air Purification
   • HEPA Filters: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters can help remove mold spores and mycotoxins from the air.
   • Air Purifiers: Air purifiers with HEPA filters and activated carbon can help reduce airborne mycotoxins and improve indoor air quality.
4. Regular Maintenance
   • Routine Inspections: Regularly inspect the building for signs of water damage and mold growth.
   • Cleaning: Keep the building clean and dry to prevent mold from gaining a foothold.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Extensive Mold Growth: Large and/or long standing mold infestations or contamination in HVAC systems should be addressed by professional mold remediation specialists.
• Health Symptoms: If building occupants are experiencing persistent health issues that may be related to mold exposure, professional assessment and remediation are necessary.

Understanding the dangers of airborne mycotoxins, and taking effective prevention and mitigation action, can protect the health of building occupants and provide safe and healthy indoor air quality.