Can Mould Cause Headaches?

CONTENTS

• The effects of exposure to mould
• Does mould cause headaches?
• The other signs of mould growth in the home
• Why you should never attempt to remove mould yourself
• Book your mould remediation today

Mould is a harmful fungus that can put people at risk of a range of health problems. People with pre-existing health conditions and weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to mould and may suffer more severe reactions. You must have any mould you spot in your home removed by professionals as soon as possible to protect people's health and minimise potential damage to your property. 

Here at ICE Cleaning, we offer our mould remediation services nationwide. Our expert mould cleaners have been accredited by Dewpoint Professional, and are available nationwide, 24/7, 365 days a year. 

Keep reading to find out whether mould exposure causes headaches and the other indicators of mould growth in the home. 

The effects of exposure to mould

Mould produces allergens, irritants, and occasionally toxic substances. When inhaled, ingested, or touched, mould can cause health issues like: 

• Allergic Reactions: Many individuals are sensitive to mould spores and may experience allergic reactions ranging from sneezing and irritated eyes to severe asthma attacks.
• Respiratory Issues: Prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory problems even in people who are not allergic to it. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. 
• Infections: Certain groups, such as those with weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases, might develop fungal infections.

Does mould cause headaches?

Headaches are a common complaint from individuals living or working in spaces with mould infestations. There are two different types of mould headaches you can suffer from. 

Headaches caused by aggravated sinuses

When inhaled, mould spores can irritate the lining of the nose, throat, and sinuses. This irritation can lead to sinusitis, a condition characterised by inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. 

Symptoms associated with sinusitis include nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, and headaches. Individuals who suffer from allergies may find their symptoms exacerbated by mould exposure, leading to more severe headache episodes.

Headaches caused by exposure to mVOCs

Mould also produces substances known as microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs). These chemicals are responsible for the musty, damp odour often associated with the fungus. They can affect human health such as causing eye irritation, respiratory issues, and neurological symptoms, like headaches, too. 

The other signs of mould growth in the home

If you are experiencing headaches regularly when in your home, this might necessarily indicate that mould is growing there. There are lots of other symptoms of mould growth that you should be looking out for. 

Visible mould spots

Mould often appears as black, green, or white spots on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. These spots may spread quickly if not treated promptly. 

Damp odours

A musty or damp smell in your home could indicate hidden mould growth. Such odours are particularly common in basements, bathrooms, and kitchens where moisture levels are higher and mould is more likely to grow.

Water leaks or damage

Past water damage or ongoing leaks create ideal conditions for mould growth. Regularly inspecting areas prone to moisture can help identify potential problems before they escalate.

You are experiencing allergic reactions or respiratory issues

If residents and visitors are suffering with persistent allergies or any other health problems associated with mould, it is probably growing in your home.  

Peeling wallpaper or paint

Mould beneath wallpaper or paint can cause it to peel away from walls. Investigate the area for other signs of mould - including mould underneath the wallpaper and paint - to see if there is any growing.  

Why you should never attempt to remove mould yourself

When disturbed, mould spores become airborne and can be easily inhaled, putting you at high risk of the health problems associated with it. This may also cause the mould to spread to other parts of your home. 

Mould remediation should always be left to mould removal professionals who have the specialist equipment and protective gear to safely and thoroughly tackle all the mould in your home. 

The mould cleaning products you can find in the supermarket are usually ineffective against mould, too. Some may even contain harsh chemicals that could further compromise indoor air quality or damage the surface you are cleaning. 

Mould removal specialists can diagnose the specific cause of the mould in your home and give you specific advice on how to prevent it returning in the future, as well. They can give you peace of mind that your mould problem will be dealt with once and for all. 

Book your mould remediation today

If it is an emergency, we can be on site within several hours to remove the mould from your property. Our nine-stage mould remediation process can eliminate all the mould in your home, including mould from the air. 

Get in touch with our friendly team to schedule your free site survey and receive a no-obligation quote for our mould cleaning services.