Diseases Linked to Toxic Mold Exposure

Now that you have a deeper understanding of what symptoms are caused by mold toxicity, let’s dive into some diseases that can develop or be exacerbated by toxic molds.

Allergic Diseases

• Rhinitis and sinusitis
• Asthma
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)

Diseases of Chronic Immune Disruption

A growing body of evidence has linked various autoimmune and other related illnesses to mold and mycotoxin exposures.   Research shows that whether mycotoxins are eaten or inhaled,  they gain systemic access to the rest of the body.  This allows them to travel to any tissue in the body causing immune dysfunction and inflammation.

• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (Mold-Induced Lung Inflammation)
• Autoimmune Disease – Mold toxins can cause intestinal hyperpermeability (Leaky Gut), a common trigger for autoimmunity.
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Neuropathy
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Colitis
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
• Myalgic Encaphalitis (ME)
• PANS/PANDAS
• Autism

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)

A leading medical authority on mold illness, Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, is responsible for defining CIRS.

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is an acquired medical condition characterized by innate immune dysregulation following respiratory exposure to water-damaged buildings (WDB). This chronic syndrome involves a range of symptoms that simultaneously affecting multiple organ systems.

In his research, Dr. Shoemaker has shown that mold, bacteria, and the toxins they produce are responsible for triggering immune inflammation leading to the symptoms that people experience in water damaged buildings.

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)

SBS is also sometimes referred to as Tight Building Syndrome (TBS).  According to the EPA,

The sick building syndrome (SBS) is used to describe a situation in which the occupants of a building experience acute health- or comfort-related effects that seem to be linked directly to the time spent in the building. No specific illness or cause can be identified. The complainants may be localized in a particular room or zone or may be widespread throughout the building.

Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, eye, nose or throat irritation, dry cough, dry or itching skin, difficulty in concentration, fatigue, sensitivity to odors, hoarseness of voice, allergies, flu-like symptoms, increased incidence of asthma attacks and personality changes.

Infectious Mold Disease (Mycoses)

Under the right circumstances, mold can colonize and infect humans.  Over the past several decades, this problem has been increasing.   The World Health Organization recently published a report on this growing threat.

Emerging from the shadows of the bacterial antimicrobial resistance pandemic, fungal infections are growing, and are ever more resistant to treatments, becoming a public health concern worldwide. – Dr Hanan Balkhy, WHO Assistant Director-General, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

Mold infections can be present on the skin, the sinuses, the GI tract, lungs, the eyes, nervous system, the brain, in the bones and in joints.  Mold infections can also be systemic.  Typically, those at risk for mold infections are immune compromised.  Patients being treated with immune suppressing medications can be targets of mold infection.  Those living in mold contaminated buildings, cancer patients, and HIV patients are also considered immune compromised.

Respiratory and Sinus Infections

• Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) – An allergic reaction to Aspergillus mold in the lungs, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath, and lung damage over time.
• Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CPA) – A long-term lung infection caused by Aspergillus that can lead to cavities (holes) in the lungs.
• Fungal Rhinosinusitis (Chronic and Acute) – Sinus infection caused by molds like Aspergillus, Mucor, or Alternaria, leading to nasal congestion, headaches, and facial pain.
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (Mold-Induced Lung Inflammation) – An immune reaction to mold spores in the lungs, causing coughing, shortness of breath, and flu-like symptoms.
• Aspergilloma (Fungal Ball) – A mass of Aspergillus mold growing in pre-existing lung cavities, often in people with tuberculosis or COPD.

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

• Subcutaneous Mucormycosis – Mucor or Rhizopus fungi infect wounds, leading to deep tissue damage.
• Tinea (Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch) – Fungal infections of the skin, caused by molds like Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton.
• Chromoblastomycosis – A slow-spreading skin infection caused by black molds (Fonsecaea, Phialophora), often from soil contact.
• Eumycetoma (Madura Foot) – Chronic deep fungal infection affecting the skin, muscles, and bones, caused by Madurella species.

Invasive and Systemic Fungal Infections

• Invasive Aspergillosis – A life-threatening infection where Aspergillus spreads from the lungs to the brain, heart, kidneys, and other organs, mostly in immunocompromised people.
• Disseminated Histoplasmosis – Severe, body-wide infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, spreading from the lungs to the liver, spleen, and bones.
• Paracoccidioidomycosis (South American Blastomycosis) – Caused by Paracoccidioides species, affecting the lungs, skin, and mucous membranes.
• Talaromycosis (Penicilliosis Marneffei) – A systemic infection caused by Talaromyces marneffei (formerly Penicillium marneffei), common in HIV/AIDS patients in Southeast Asia.
• Candidiasis (Systemic or Mucosal) – While mostly caused by Candida yeast, systemic infections can sometimes involve mold-like fungi in immunocompromised patients.

Eye Infections

• Fungal Keratitis – An eye infection caused by Fusarium, Aspergillus, or Candida, often after trauma or contact lens use, leading to vision loss if untreated.
• Endophthalmitis – A severe, sight-threatening fungal infection inside the eye, sometimes caused by Aspergillus or Candida in immunocompromised people.

Neurological Infections

• Cryptococcal Meningitis – Caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, a mold-like fungus found in soil and bird droppings, leading to brain infections, especially in immunocompromised people.
• Cerebral Aspergillosis – Aspergillus spreads to the brain, causing severe neurological symptoms like seizures, confusion, and coma.

Gastrointestinal Fungal Infections

• Gastrointestinal Mucormycosis – A rare but severe infection affecting the stomach or intestines, often seen in people with weak immune systems.
• Histoplasmosis Gastrointestinal Involvement – In rare cases, Histoplasma infection can affect the digestive tract, leading to ulcers and intestinal blockage.
• Candidiasis – a yeast that has been linked to inflammation and cancers.

Bone and Joint Infections

• Fungal Osteomyelitis – Bone infection caused by Aspergillus, Blastomyces, or Coccidioides, leading to chronic pain and bone damage.
• Septic Arthritis (Fungal Joint Infection) – Candida, Aspergillus, or Sporothrix species can infect the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Mold, Mycotoxins, and Cancer: An Evolving Discussion

Fungal Infections that Mimic Tumors

Numerous medical studies and case reports have shown that certain mold infections can be mistaken for different types of cancer.  For example, mucormycosis or invasive aspergillosis can form fungal masses, especially in the brain or lungs.  These masses appear tumor-like on imaging scans, contributing to the possibility of a misdiagnosis.   Fungal infections of the skin can also be misdiagnosed as cancers.

Fungal DNA Found in Tumors

The infectious theory of cancer has strong research supporting the fact that microbial infections can cause, contribute to or exacerbate cancer growth.  Recent evidence has emerged where scientists have identified fungal DNA in tumors of the head-neck, breast, lung, stomach, skin, and colon.  Some researchers speculate that this may speed up the rate of cancer growth.

It is not clear yet whether mold is causal in these cancers, but several research studies have linked the use of anti fungal medications to improved cancer outcomes.  In addition, a growing number of people are turning to drugs like ivermectin and fenbendazole to treat their cancers.  The anecdotal outcomes have been positive for many.

Mycotoxins: Potential to Cause Cancer

Certain mycotoxins have been linked to cancer development.  According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) the following mycotoxins are classified as carcinogens:

• Aflatoxins – Classified as a group 1 carcinogen.  Group 1 means a definitely cancerous to humans.
• Fumonisin – Classified as a group 2b carcinogen.  Group 2b means  possibly carcinogenic to humans.
• Ochratoxin A – Classified as a group 2b carcinogen.
• Many other mycotoxins have been show to cause tumors in animal studies, but inadequate human studies exist.  The biological mechanisms of how mycotoxins create damage have been elucidated in many studies.  These mechanisms are known to contribute to the development of cancer.

Assessment for Mold Toxicity

It is important to work with a mold literate doctor when seeking professional guidance.  This is not an area or research that is taught in medical school.  Mold literate doctors typically take post graduate training to gain additional knowledge and understanding.  When interviewing doctors, a simple question that can be asked is: “Do you perform laboratory testing to help identify mold and mycotoxin exposures?”  Below are some simple expectations that you should have when being assessed by a doctor.

Clinical Evaluation

A doctor should perform the following to help determine whether or not mold may be contributing to your illness:

• Exposure History: Home/work environment, history of water intrusion or damage, musty smells, regional climate, and additional questions to help assess the likelihood of exposure.
• Symptom Review: Multi-system assessments (respiratory, neurological, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, dermatological, etc).
• Physical Exam: Signs of mold related illness can leave physical clues.  Skin changes, muscle and joint problems, neuropathy, and many other issues can be assessed in a physical examination.

Laboratory Tests

The following lab tests are commonly used to assess for mold and mycotoxin related illness.  This list is not exhaustive, and a mold literate doctor may want to recommend additional testing:

• Mycotoxin Panels: Urine tests for trichothecenes, aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, and other mold toxins.
• Antibody Levels: Antibodies to assess for immune reactions against mold and mycotoxins can be helpful.
• Inflammatory Markers: CRP, TGF-β1, MMP-9, C4a, ferritin, cytokine panels.
• HLA Typing: Genetic predisposition checks (e.g., for CIRS)
• NeuroQuant MRI – Some clinicians use advanced MRI techniques to detect brain volumetric changes consistent with mold toxin-related illnesses (e.g., CIRS).

Environmental Testing

A mold literate doctor may refer you to an inspector to investigate the following:

• Air & Dust Sampling: Compare indoor vs. outdoor spore counts.
• PCR Analysis: ERMI/HERTSMI-2 to detect mold DNA.
• Professional Inspection: Certified mold inspectors or building biologists can find hidden sources (wall cavities, crawlspaces, HVAC).

Treatment and Management of Mold Toxicity

Ultimately, you should follow the advice of your doctor.  Mold treatment and management can be a challenging endeavor.  Make sure that you avoid the #1 mistake people make.  What is it?  They stay in their moldy environment.  Recovering from mold and mycotoxin related illness requires a safe and clean environment.  Your doctor should walk you through an objective process to help you accomplish this.  As a general rule, the following items should all be considered as essential to a holistic approach to recovery.

Environmental Remediation

The two most important aspects to a successful remediation are – 1. Find the source of the mold, and 2. Identify the source of moisture that allowed it to grow. Once you know the answer to both, a successful remediation can be planned.  A competent mold inspector can help you determine this.  If you haven’t already, read our guide on how to hire a mold inspector here.

Remediation typically consists 4 basic steps:

1. Quarantine the contaminated area – a remediation company should seal off the rest of the home with containment walls to prevent cross contaminating mold free areas.
2. Remove mold contaminated materials – all moldy materials should be removed from the home.
3. Clean Up – The use of air scrubbers, HEPA vacuums, and microfiber cloths to wipe down walls, ceilings, floors and solid items in the home.  If necessary, fine particle remediation should also be performed.
4. Evaluate the success of the job – Have an independent mold inspector come back to the home after remediation is complete to assess whether the job was performed successfully. **Don’t skip this step.  When successful, your home should receive a mold clearance certificate as proof of success.  You may need this later should you sell the home.

For more details, please read our Mold Remediation Guide.

Medical Treatments & Nutritional Support Options

Now that you are in a safe environment, the real work can begin.  Depending on your doctors assessment, several types of treatment and nutritional support options may be recommended.  Some common ones include:

• Binders & Detox Aids: Activated charcoal, zeolite, bentonite clay, or other over the counter binders may be recommended by your doctor.  Some doctors also recommend the use of a prescription binder called cholestyramine.  Essentially, binders help to pull mycotoxins out of your body through your bowel movements.
• Antifungals: Itraconazole, voriconazole, and amphotericin B are prescription drugs that may be prescribed should you have a fungal infections.  Some doctors also use natural antifungals like caprylic acid, thyme, oregano, or olive leaf.
• Immunomodulatory Nutrition Support: High doses of Omega-3 fatty acids or SPM’s (Specialized Pro Resolving Mediators) are frequently recommended to help support a healthy inflammation response.
• Targeted Supplements: Glutathione, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid, vitamin C, and probiotics are commonly recommended to support detoxification.
• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) – Commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and enhance tissue oxygenation.
• Infrared Sauna – Commonly recommended to support detoxification through the sweat.
• Customized Nutritional Support – Many doctors measure for vitamin and mineral deficiencies.  Based on test results, a customized nutritional protocol can be created that matches the needs of the patient.

Diet & Lifestyle Changes are Necessary to Recover

Unfortunately, this is an area many doctors fail to adequately address.  Diet and lifestyle are too often an afterthought.  I like to break this area down into 6 Essential Categories:

1. Eat real, organic, whole foods – More on diet specifications below.
2. Sleep – Sleep is essential for healing and repair.  Chronic mold exposure causes insomnia for many, and sometimes getting sleep regulated again can be a challenge.  Magnesium, melatonin, valerian, theanine, and passion flower can all be helpful if you are struggling.
3. Exercise – The body needs movement to detoxify.  Exercise can be tricky, as many mold sufferers don’t tolerate too much activity.  The key here is to be patient with yourself.  Move to tolerance.  Walking small distances is a good place to start if that is all you are capable of.
4. Sunshine – the freest and most powerful medicine on the planet is the sun.  Go outside as much as you can.  Aside from the fresh air, sunshine will provide a source of vitamin D, melatonin, serotonin, and stress hormone regulation.  Additionally, sunshine helps your mitochondria generate more energy for healing and repair.  Don’t underestimate how powerful sunshine is on your healing journey.
5. Drink Clean Water – Your body is 70% water.  Water is required to move toxins out of your body efficiently.  Filter your water.  Avoid drinking out of plastics.  Use glass instead.
6. Breath Clean Air – Now that your home is no longer a mold contaminated death box, your air quality should be much better when indoors.  You should also consider an ultra fine HEPA filter as well.  And did I mention – Go Outside!  Even with filters, indoor air quality pails in comparison to mother nature.

Diet Changes Needed for Chronic Mold Exposure Recovery

The right dietary intervention is hands down, the most powerful tool when trying to recover from chronic mold exposure. Nutritional strategies help reduce inflammation, support detoxification, and minimize additional mycotoxin intake.  In addition, nutrition is the cornerstone of healing.  Your body requires adequate Calories (proteins, fats, & carbohydrates), vitamins, and minerals to heal, repair, and maintain itself.  Without adequate nutrients, healing can at worst be impossible, and at best take longer than it should.

No Grain No Pain Diet

The No Grain No Pain diet is essential.  Based on decades of clinical experience and patient outcomes, this diet often leads to rapid improvements for those with mold related illness.  The core principles include:

1. Eliminating Grains
   • This includes wheat, corn, rice, oats, barley, and other cereal grains. Grains can contain elevated levels of mycotoxins, particularly when improperly stored or processed.
   • By removing grains, many patients report a decrease in systemic inflammation, reduced joint pain, and an improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms.
2. Focusing on Nutrient-Dense Foods
   • Emphasize whole, unprocessed foods such as lean proteins, fresh vegetables, fruits (in moderation if blood sugar regulation is a concern), healthy fats (avocados, olives, coconut), and seeds or nuts that are low in mold risk.
   • This ensures an abundance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support the immune system and aid in detoxification pathways.
3. Avoiding Gluten and Cross-Reactive Proteins
   • For many mold-affected individuals, gluten-containing grains can exacerbate leaky gut and inflammation—even if they do not have celiac disease.
   • Identifying cross-reactive proteins (e.g., in certain grains or dairy) via testing or a structured elimination diet may further reduce immune system burden.
4. Reducing Overall Inflammatory Load
   • Chronic mold exposure can trigger a pro-inflammatory immune response. A diet devoid of grains (especially refined or genetically modified grains) often eliminates common inflammatory triggers, allowing the body to focus on healing and toxin elimination.

Avoiding High-Mycotoxin Foods

In addition to eliminating grains, a crucial strategy for mold recovery is minimizing dietary intake of foods known to contain high levels of mycotoxins:

• Peanuts and Peanut Products
  • Frequently contaminated with aflatoxin, a potent carcinogenic mycotoxin.
  • Opt for tree nuts like almonds or walnuts tested for mycotoxins, or choose peanut-free alternatives.
• Corn and Corn-Based Products
  • Corn is prone to fumonisin and other mycotoxins if storage conditions are suboptimal.
  • Check labels, as corn derivatives (corn starch, corn syrup) appear in many processed foods.
• Stored Grains and Cereals
  • Wheat, barley, rice, and oats can be contaminated if not stored in dry, cool environments.
  • Even on gluten-free diets, be mindful of how non-gluten grains (buckwheat, millet) are sourced and stored.
• Coffee and Certain Teas
  • Improperly harvested or stored coffee beans can harbor mycotoxins such as ochratoxin A.
  • Seek brands that test for mold contamination and maintain strict quality controls.
• Dried Fruits
  • Figs, dates, raisins, and other dried fruits may develop fungal growth if moisture control is inadequate during processing or storage.
  • Inspect for any visible mold and buy from reputable suppliers when possible.
• Cheeses and Fermented Products
  • Some cheeses (especially soft varieties) and fermented foods (e.g., kombucha, miso) can be higher in molds.
  • This does not mean all fermented foods are harmful, but individuals highly sensitive to mold or histamine may need to limit or temporarily avoid them.

Additional Considerations:

• Hydration and Electrolyte Balance
  • Adequate fluid intake supports kidney and liver function, crucial for excreting toxins.
  • Electrolytes (magnesium, potassium, sodium) maintain cellular and muscular health, especially important for those experiencing frequent urination or sweating due to mold-related issues.
• Testing for Food Sensitivities
  • Chronic mold exposure overloads and sensitizes the immune system.  A common side effect of this change is the development of food allergies and sensitivities.  So in addition to removing grains and high-mold foods, patients may benefit from food sensitivity testing—particularly if symptoms persist despite dietary changes.

For more in depth information on this topic consider reading No Grain No Pain, and check out our Guide on Mold Detoxification.

Preventive Strategies & Maintenance

Mold can grow in as little as 48 hours.  Once your mold is remediated, and your health is restored, it is important to implement a preventative strategy to ensure it doesn’t happen again.

• Perform Regular Visual Inspections: Keep your eyes open for signs of water intrusion or water damage.
• Immediate Response to Water Damage: Dry areas within 24 hours.
• Adequate Ventilation: Use exhaust fans in bathrooms/kitchens; maintain and clean HVAC systems regularly.
• Monitoring Indoor Humidity: Use hygrometers; aim for 30–50% humidity range.

For more detailed information, check out our Mold Prevention Guide.

FAQ: Common Questions About Mold Exposure and Toxicity

What is mold toxicity?

Mold toxicity occurs when a person is exposed to mold spores or mycotoxins (toxic substances produced by molds) for an extended period. This exposure can lead to various symptoms, chronic inflammation, the development of immune dysfunction, and even cancer.

What are the common symptoms of mold toxicity?

Symptoms of mold toxicity can vary but often include:

Chronic fatigue
Headaches and migraines
Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”
Respiratory issues (coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath)
Skin rashes or irritation
Sinus congestion or sinusitis
Joint pain and muscle aches
Unexplained weight gain or loss
Digestive issues, including bloating, diarrhea, or constipation
Mood swings, anxiety, or depression

Can mold exposure alone cause cancer?

Yes. certain mycotoxins (aflatoxin B1) are strongly linked to liver cancer, and chronic mold exposure may contribute to tumor-promoting inflammation.

How do I differentiate mold toxicity from Lyme disease or co-infections?

Overlapping symptoms make it tricky; specialized testing for Lyme (Western Blot, PCR) and mycotoxins (urine panels) can help. Clinicians experienced in both conditions can provide a more holistic approach.

Can mold toxicity cause neurological symptoms?

Yes, mold toxicity is often linked to neurological symptoms, such as memory problems, confusion, and difficulty focusing. Individuals with mold exposure may also experience depression or anxiety, which can worsen the overall condition.

How can I tell if mold is affecting my health?

If you have a history of mold exposure and are experiencing unexplained symptoms, such as fatigue, respiratory issues, or cognitive problems, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider who specializes in mold toxicity. Testing for mold exposure or mycotoxins in your system can provide insight into whether mold is affecting your health.

Is mold toxicity the same as an allergy to mold?

Mold toxicity is different from a mold allergy. While an allergy triggers an immune response to mold spores, mold toxicity involves the buildup of toxic substances (mycotoxins) in the body. Both can cause similar symptoms, but mold toxicity tends to be more severe and long-lasting.

Can mold toxicity lead to chronic illness?

Yes, if left untreated, mold toxicity can contribute to chronic health conditions, such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), fibromyalgia, autoimmune diseases, and conditions like PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome).

What should I do if I think I have mold toxicity?

The first step is to minimize further mold exposure. Ensure your living or working environment is free from mold, and seek professional help to remediate any mold problems. Then, consult with a healthcare provider experienced in mold toxicity to evaluate your symptoms and recommend treatment options.

Are children more susceptible to mold toxicity?

Yes, children, especially those with underlying health conditions, are more vulnerable to the effects of mold exposure. Mold toxicity can also contribute to developmental or behavioral issues in children, so it’s essential to address mold problems in homes with young children.

Can mold toxicity be treated?

Yes, mold toxicity is treatable. Treatment often involves detoxification strategies, such as improving gut health, using binders to remove mycotoxins, and addressing any underlying inflammation. Your healthcare provider will tailor a treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and health history.

How can I prevent mold toxicity in my home?

To prevent mold growth, control moisture levels in your home. Repair leaks, use dehumidifiers, and ensure proper ventilation in damp areas like bathrooms and basements. Regularly check for mold growth and take action immediately if you spot it.

Is it enough to remove visible mold?

Not always. Hidden mold (behind walls, in HVAC) and mycotoxin-laden dust can perpetuate symptoms. A thorough inspection and remediation are critical.

Do I need to throw away all my belongings if I have mold?

Porous items (e.g., carpets, upholstered furniture) heavily contaminated with mold may need discarding. Non-porous or lightly contaminated items can often be cleaned with proper protocols.

Conclusion

Mold toxicity and mycotoxin exposure are multifaceted health issues that can involve respiratory, neurological, immunological, and even oncogenic (cancer-related) pathways. As research evolves, it becomes evident that mold-related illnesses aren’t solely about allergic responses but can encompass systemic inflammation, co-exposure synergies (e.g., heavy metals, food sensitivities, and genetic susceptibilities that compound the problem.

Effective diagnosis demands both clinical vigilance and specialized testing, while treatment combines environmental remediation, diet & lifestyle strategies, and sometimes medical interventions.

Ultimately, prevention through proper construction, proactive building maintenance, humidity control, and prompt water-damage remediation—remains the best defense against mold-induced illness.