Showers, sinks, washing machines and wall seepage are the major sources of moisture in these areas. The more infamous of the two is Stachybotrys, which is considered to be a toxin. Stachybotrys has been linked to health problems throughout the United States. In Cleveland, Ohio, Stachybotrys has caused or contributed several deaths in recent years. Mycotoxins can cause a variety of symptoms and diseases, from short-term irritation of the airways to immunosuppression to some forms of cancer.
Toxic molds are most dangerous when they are ingested.
Some mold species can also infect the respiratory tract, causing chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. T he molds most likely to cause allergic reactions are Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium and Alternaria. These reactions usually consist of runny nose, shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. Allergy-prone individuals, such as those with hay fever, are most vulnerable to these reactions. These molds also trigger allergy-related asthma.