Toxic Mold

Simply defined, molds are microscopic fungi that thrive on plant and animal matter. These organisms produce spores that are spread in the air, through water, or on pets and insects.

While the majority of molds present minimal health risks, two types of household molds are considered toxic: Memnoniella and Stachybotrys.

Stachybotrys mold spores are known to produce a poisonous substance known as mycotoxin. If these spores are either inhaled or ingested, they can produce mild-to-severe symptoms or conditions.

Symptoms of toxic mold exposure may include:

Nasal congestion • Eye irritation • Wheezing and/or coughing • Fever • Hearing loss Dizziness • Shortness of breath • Sore throat • Allergies • Flu-like symptoms • Lung and skin infections • Headaches • Cognitive problems • Memory loss • Chronic fatigue and irritability • Brain damage

Because mold often flourishes in damp, obscure environments, such as above ceiling tiles, under floors, or behind walls, it is often difficult to detect. In some cases, if mold manifestation is widespread, it can be seen or distinguished by a musty odor.

In the absence of water, mold cannot spread. However, within 24 hours, common molds can begin to grow if water is present. In time, when an area becomes totally saturated, Stachybotrys sets in.

Statistics You Should Know:

• Throughout the world, it is believed that more than 100,000 different species of mold exist.
• An estimated 15 million Americans are allergic to mold.

• A study conducted by The Mayo Clinic in 1999 identified fungus as the primary culprit in nearly all cases of chronic sinusitis that now affect an estimated 37 million Americans.
• Medical experts believe that mold is a contributing factor to a dramatic 300 percent increase in the number of people diagnosed with asthma within the past two decades.
• Experts estimate that up to 50 percent of all homes may be infested with Stachybotrys.

Understanding the Law

Exposure to toxic mold can be quite costly, not only due to the serious health issues it can cause, but also because of the potential for property damage. Extensive mold infestation can make homes, apartments, and commercial or public buildings hazardous places in which to live or work.

In recent years, legal claims have been filed against builders, contractors, landlords, home sellers, homeowner associations, and others to collect compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, and property damage.

As always, time is of the essence: In some states, statute of limitation restrictions impose limits on the period of time in which you can file a claim for this kind of injury.

Have You Been Exposed to Toxic Mold?

There are five essential steps that you must take if your health has been affected by exposure to toxic mold:

1. Take photographs of mold-infested areas of your home or office building.
2. Create a comprehensive medical history that pinpoints when symptoms of toxic mold exposure were first identified.
3. Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Save copies of all hospital, physician, and pharmacy bills to support your case.
4. Make arrangements for a certified mold specialist to inspect and evaluate the property.
5. Hire a competent attorney who specializes in toxic mold.

Why You Need a Personal Injury Attorney

Litigating a toxic mold case requires specialized expertise in the interpretation of complex medical and scientific evidence. A skilled attorney can competently review all the data and facts of the case and evaluate your legal options to ensure that you and your family receive the compensation that you deserve.

To find a personal injury lawyer in your community who has expertly handled toxic mold-related cases, please enter your city name in the grey search box at the top of this page.

THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE - PLEASE CONSULT WITH AN ATTORNEY REGARDING YOUR SPECIFIC CASE