Overview
Indoor mold exposure has been consistently linked to respiratory health effects in scientific research. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) found sufficient evidence in 2004 connecting indoor mold exposure with upper respiratory tract symptoms, cough, and wheeze in otherwise healthy individuals, as well as asthma symptoms in people with existing asthma.
Research continues to explore the relationship between mold and respiratory health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains updated guidance on this topic, with their most recent information published in 2024-2025.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes. If you’re experiencing respiratory symptoms, consult a healthcare provider. Mold inspectors do not provide medical advice or diagnosis.
Asthma and Mold Exposure
Asthma Exacerbation
For individuals with existing asthma, mold exposure can trigger asthma attacks. The biological mechanism involves the immune system’s response to mold proteins (allergens), which can cause airway inflammation and bronchospasm. Research indicates this effect is particularly pronounced in:
- Individuals with mold-specific IgE antibodies (mold sensitization)
- Children with existing asthma
- People living or working in damp indoor environments
Asthma Development
Studies suggest a potential link between early mold exposure and asthma development in some children, particularly those with genetic predisposition. The CDC notes this as an area of ongoing research. A 2021 meta-analysis found associations between residential dampness/mold and increased risk of respiratory infections in children.
Key Finding: The IOM found “sufficient evidence” of an association between indoor mold and asthma symptoms in asthmatics (2004). This remains the foundational scientific consensus.
Upper Respiratory Effects
Even in individuals without asthma, mold exposure can cause upper respiratory symptoms. The IOM found sufficient evidence for these effects:
| Symptom | Evidence Level |
|---|---|
| Nasal congestion | Sufficient evidence (IOM) |
| Cough | Sufficient evidence (IOM) |
| Wheeze | Sufficient evidence (IOM) |
| Sore throat | Associated (CDC) |
| Respiratory infections | Increased in damp buildings (studies) |
More Serious Respiratory Conditions
Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an immune-mediated inflammatory lung disease that can occur in susceptible individuals exposed to mold. A 2025 study led by UT Southwestern Medical Center found a link between household mold and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. HP can cause:
- Acute episodes: Fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath hours after exposure
- Chronic form: Progressive shortness of breath, fatigue, weight loss over time
Fungal Infections (Immunocompromised)
In individuals with weakened immune systems, certain molds (particularly Aspergillus fumigatus) can cause invasive infections. This is primarily a concern for:
- Organ transplant recipients
- People undergoing chemotherapy
- Individuals with HIV/AIDS
- Those on long-term corticosteroid therapy
Important: Fungal infections from environmental mold are rare in healthy individuals. If you are immunocompromised and concerned about mold exposure, consult your physician.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
People with Asthma
Mold exposure can trigger attacks and worsen symptoms. Mold-sensitized asthmatics face highest risk.
People with Allergies
Those with mold allergies (confirmed by testing) may experience more severe symptoms.
Immunocompromised Individuals
Those with weakened immune systems face risk of fungal infections from certain molds.
Chronic Lung Disease
COPD, cystic fibrosis, and other chronic lung conditions increase vulnerability to mold effects.
When Environmental Assessment Helps
If you’re experiencing respiratory symptoms and suspect mold may be involved, professional environmental assessment can:
- Identify whether elevated mold is present in your environment
- Determine what species are present (some are more allergenic)
- Locate hidden moisture problems contributing to growth
- Provide documentation for healthcare providers
TrueSight’s Approach: We provide objective mold testing with no conflict of interest—we don’t sell remediation services. Learn about our inspection process →
Respiratory Health & Mold in Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s climate creates unique considerations for mold-related respiratory effects:
Seasonal Allergen Overlap
Oklahoma’s peak outdoor mold season (August-October) overlaps with ragweed pollen season, creating compounded respiratory challenges for allergy sufferers. Sensitization to mold allergens like Alternaria is common in Oklahoma’s population.
Humidity Spikes
Oklahoma’s humid summers (often 70-80% outdoor RH) can drive indoor humidity above 60%, promoting mold growth. This is particularly challenging for asthmatic residents — both the mold growth and humidity itself can aggravate symptoms.
Storm Damage Aftermath
Following Oklahoma’s frequent severe storms, water-damaged homes that aren’t properly dried within 24-48 hours often develop mold. TrueSight sees increased post-storm calls from homeowners experiencing new respiratory symptoms.
Research & Citations
- Institute of Medicine. “Damp Indoor Spaces and Health.” National Academies Press, 2004.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Mold: Basic Facts.” CDC.gov, Updated 2024-2025.
- UT Southwestern Medical Center. “Study Links Household Mold to Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis.” 2025.
- Fisk WJ, et al. “Meta-analysis of respiratory infection and dampness/mold.” NIH, 2023.
- EPA. “Mold Resources.” EPA.gov, 2024.