Toxic mold can develop rapidly in residential properties. Mold requires moisture, darkness and material in which to grow. Toxic black mold can begin inside the walls of a house or under the carpeting. It may grow near sinks, toilets and bathtubs or near poorly sealed windows.
Any place that water can accumulate within the home, mold can potentially grow. Some people can have regular exposure to mold without any major medical complications. Others can fall desperately ill and may develop long-term medical setbacks because of exposure to mold in a residential environment.
What groups of people have an elevated risk of strong negative reactions to toxic mold?
1. Older adults and young children
People at either extreme of the age spectrum are often particularly vulnerable to infections. Mold can be dangerous for young children who do not yet have well-developed immune systems. It can also cause major complications for older adults, whose immune function may have declined with age. Young children and older adults are susceptible to serious medical consequences after toxic mold exposure.
2. Immunocompromised individuals
Some people have poor immune system function naturally. Genetic conditions or the consequences of an acquired illness can make them particularly susceptible to infections. Others may be immunocompromised due to medical care. People undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, lupus and autoimmune disorders may be particularly vulnerable to invasive mold infections (IMIs) that require hospitalization to treat.
3. People with allergies or asthma
Toxic mold exposure often relates to the inhalation of spores. As such, those with pre-existing respiratory challenges are especially vulnerable to severe reactions to toxic mold. People with asthma and other respiratory disorders are likely vulnerable to medical complications after toxic mold exposure. Some people are naturally allergic to mold. They may only learn of that allergy after exposure in a residential environment. Other times, reactions to antibiotics previously could provide a warning that a mold allergy could be a concern.
Particularly when mold exposure occurs in a rented property and people suffer major consequences, legal action against a landlord may be the best option available. Pursuing a toxic mold lawsuit can potentially help people recoup medical expenses, lost wages and even property damage caused by mold growth in a residential property.