Mold exposure is a common problem that can cause a variety of concerning symptoms. One of the most frequent complaints among those exposed to mold is feeling chronically fatigued or tired. But does mold actually cause tiredness?
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of microscopic fungus that grows in damp, warm environments. Outdoors, mold growth is important for breaking down dead organic matter. Indoors, mold growth is almost always problematic. There are thousands of species of mold, but some of the most common indoor offenders include:
- Cladosporium
- Penicillium
- Alternaria
- Aspergillus
- Stachybotrys (black mold)
When mold starts growing indoors, it can feed off building materials, paint, wallpaper, carpeting, ceiling tiles, and other common items. Mold reproduces by creating tiny spores that become airborne, allowing mold to spread throughout a building.
Health Effects of Mold
For those sensitive to mold, exposure can cause a wide range of health complaints. Some of the most common symptoms reported in association with indoor mold growth include:
- Wheezing and difficulty breathing
- Eye irritation
- Nasal congestion
- Throat irritation
- Skin rash
- Headache
- Fatigue
The underlying mechanism behind these symptoms typically involves some type of inflammatory response within the body. Mold spores and mold fragments contain allergenic proteins and other compounds that can trigger inflammation. When inhaled, mold spores may cause inflammation in the airways. Absorption of inflammatory mold compounds through the skin or mucous membranes can potentially lead to systemic inflammation throughout the body.
Does Mold Exposure Cause Fatigue?
Many people report feeling an unexplained sense of fatigue after spending time in a mold-contaminated building. Studies have confirmed that fatigue and exhaustion are among the most frequently reported symptoms related to indoor mold exposure.
For example, a 2018 study published in Frontiers in Immunology surveyed 2,312 individuals exposed to water-damaged buildings. 52% reported unusual fatigue or tiredness and 45% experienced profound exhaustion. Fatigue was one of the most common complaints among participants.
Another study published in 2013 in Advances in Applied Sociology evaluated 155 patients diagnosed with chronic inflammatory response syndrome due to mold exposure. Fatigue was reported in 93% of patients.
Research specifically on mold-related fatigue also supports the connection:
- A 2005 study in the American Journal of Public Health surveyed 104 individuals exposed to mold and found that fatigue was reported by 70%.
- A 2008 literature review in Toxicology and Industrial Health noted that studies have consistently identified fatigue as a primary effect of mold exposure.
- A 2009 meta-analysis in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology concluded that collectively, studies clearly demonstrate associations between mold exposure and increased fatigue.
Proposed Reasons Mold Causes Fatigue
While it is clear mold exposure is connected to increased feelings of tiredness and exhaustion, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Some of the potential causes researchers have proposed include:
- Inflammatory Response – Mold triggers inflammatory chemicals like cytokines, histamine, and leukotrienes. Widespread inflammation is thought to directly contribute to feelings of fatigue.
- Allergic Reactions – Mold can cause allergy-like symptoms even in those without typical allergies. Allergic reactions can be draining on the body and lead to fatigue.
- Toxic Effects – Mycotoxins and volatile organic compounds from mold may have toxic effects including fatigue and cellular damage.
- Sleep Disruption – Allergic reactions, congestion, headache, and other mold-related symptoms can impair sleep quality and lead to daytime tiredness.
- Stress Response – The stress of dealing with mold illnesses and remediation may indirectly contribute to fatigue.
Researchers speculate it is likely a combination of these factors that ultimately lead to the feelings of tiredness reported following mold exposures.
Populations at Higher Risk for Fatigue
Exposure to indoor mold can make anyone feel tired and worn down. However, certain populations appear to be at increased risk for experiencing fatigue in association with mold:
Individuals with Chronic Conditions
Those with pre-existing chronic health conditions seem to be more prone to fatigue when exposed to mold. This includes people with:
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- Lung diseases like COPD
- Cognitive dysfunction like memory problems
For those with chronic illnesses, mold-related inflammation can exacerbate underlying disease processes and amplify fatigue.
Children
Children tend to be more susceptible to indoor mold for several reasons. Their airways are smaller and more easily inflamed. Their immune systems are also less developed compared to adults. Reports indicate that fatigue is very common in children exposed to damp buildings with mold growth.
Elderly Individuals
Older adults also appear to be particularly prone to mold-related health effects. Their immune function declines with age, making them more vulnerable. Additionally, pre-existing lung conditions that impact breathing may become worse when mold is inhaled.
Pregnant Women
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can amplify inflammatory responses in the body. This heightened reactivity to mold compounds likely explains why pregnant women often report extreme fatigue in association with mold exposure.
How Long Does Mold-Related Fatigue Last?
The duration of fatigue and tiredness related to mold exposure can vary considerably based on individual factors. Some people may bounce back quickly, while others battle chronic fatigue for months or years after mold exposure. Elements that influence fatigue duration include:
- Intensity of mold exposure
- Length of time exposed
- Species of mold present
- Individual sensitivity
- Timeliness of remediation
- Effectiveness of medical treatment
For many people, fatigue is one of the most stubborn and long-lasting symptoms related to mold illness. Even after mold remediation and clearance from a building, residual fatigue often lingers. This implies the biological impact of mold may be far reaching and long lasting once health is compromised.
How to Relieve Mold-Related Fatigue
If you’re battling unrelenting exhaustion after mold exposure, taking action to support your body can help overcome the fatigue faster. Some potential fatigue relief strategies include:
Avoid Ongoing Mold Exposures
Clearly, limiting contact with moldy environments as much as possible is key. Take steps to thoroughly remediate or remove contaminated items. Use HEPA air filtration, dehumidification, and cleaning techniques to restrain mold growth in your home. Avoid time in other damp, moldy buildings that could worsen your condition.
Support Drainage and Detoxification
Enhancing elimination of mold toxins may minimize the burden on your body. Methods to improve drainage include:
- Dry brushing skin
- Infrared sauna
- Lymphatic massage
Herbs, supplements, and nutritious foods can also assist detoxification through the liver and kidneys.
Reduce Inflammation
Controlling inflammation is key to overcoming chronic fatigue. An anti-inflammatory diet, stress reduction, exercise, and anti-inflammatory supplements (like fish oil, turmeric, and ginger) can help reduce inflammation driving fatigue.
Boost Mitochondrial Function
Mitochondrial dysfunction is thought to play a role in mold-related fatigue. Supporting mitochondria with CoQ10, NAD+, carnitine, and antioxidants may enhance cellular energy production.
Support the Immune System
Strengthening immune function helps the body overcome illness. Immune-boosting strategies include a whole foods diet, mushrooms, zinc, vitamin C, and herbs like astragalus.
Allow Time for Recovery
Patience and allowing adequate rest time for recovery is key. Pushing excessively before your body has regained homeostasis may prolong fatigue.
The Link Between Mold and Fatigue: The Bottom Line
Scientific evidence clearly demonstrates that indoor mold exposure is linked to increased feelings of tiredness and fatigue. While the precise mechanisms are not fully mapped out, it is thought that inflammatory responses triggered by mold are a primary driver of exhaustion. Certain populations like children and those with chronic health conditions tend to be most vulnerable to fatigue when exposed to mold.
Fatigue is often one of the most persistent, stubborn symptoms following mold exposure. Avoiding ongoing contact with mold, remediating the source, supporting detox pathways, reducing inflammation, and allowing proper recovery time can help overcome mold-related fatigue more quickly. With knowledge of the link between mold and exhaustion, individuals can take the right actions to regain energy and vitality after mold illness.