Indoor Air Quality: Its Now Over Six Million Kids with Asthma in the U.S.

Nov 21, 2023 | Indoor Air Quality, Mold Damage, Mold Inspection, Mold Testing

Feeling exhausted despite getting enough sleep? Your home might be making you sick from Mold Fatigue.

Sarah thought she was just getting older. The 34-year-old marketing executive found herself struggling to get through afternoons, relying on multiple cups of coffee just to stay alert during meetings. Despite sleeping eight hours a night, she woke up feeling like she hadn’t slept at all. After months of doctor visits and normal test results, a colleague suggested something unexpected: “Have you checked your home for mold?”

Three weeks later, after professional mold testing revealed significant contamination in her garage and HVAC system, Sarah finally had her answer—and more importantly, a path to recovery.

The Hidden Connection: How Mold Triggers Chronic Fatigue

Mold exposure doesn’t just cause obvious symptoms like sneezing or coughing. For many people, the most debilitating effect is an overwhelming, persistent fatigue that seems to have no clear cause. This happens because mold releases microscopic spores and toxic compounds called mycotoxins into the air, which can significantly impact your body’s normal functioning.

When you breathe in these contaminants, your immune system goes into overdrive trying to fight them off. This constant state of inflammation leaves your body exhausted, much like how you feel drained when fighting off a virus—except with mold exposure, there’s no recovery period as long as you’re still being exposed.

The most common fatigue-related symptoms of mold exposure include:

  • Persistent exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest
  • Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
  • Memory problems and mental sluggishness
  • Weakness and reduced physical stamina
  • Sleep disturbances and non-restorative sleep
  • Mood changes including depression and irritability

Beyond Fatigue: The Full Spectrum of Mold Health Effects

While chronic fatigue might be your primary concern, mold exposure can trigger a cascade of health issues that often compound each other:

Respiratory symptoms are usually the first sign, including persistent cough, wheezing, throat irritation, and sinus congestion. Many people dismiss these as seasonal allergies, not realizing their home environment is the real culprit.

Neurological effects extend beyond fatigue to include headaches, dizziness, and in severe cases, tremors or seizures. The mycotoxins produced by certain mold species can cross the blood-brain barrier, directly affecting brain function.

Skin reactions such as rashes, itching, and unexplained dermatitis are also common, as mold spores can irritate sensitive skin upon contact.

Digestive issues including nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain can occur when mold spores are ingested through contaminated food or simply swallowed after being inhaled.

The frustrating reality is that these symptoms often develop gradually over months or years, making it difficult to connect them to mold exposure. Many people, like Sarah, spend considerable time and money on medical tests and treatments before discovering the environmental cause.

Mold Fatigue: Whether you're searching for affordable mold testing near me or need a licensed mold inspector in Florida, our team is here to support your journey toward a healthier home. We offer comprehensive services, including Inspection for Mold in Miami and Coral Gables Mold Testing, using state-of-the-art tools to locate hidden mold. Don’t wait—get the clarity and peace of mind that comes from knowing your indoor air is safe.

Mold Fatigue: Whether you’re searching for affordable mold testing near me or need a licensed mold inspector in Florida, our team is here to support your journey toward a healthier home. We offer comprehensive services, including Inspection for Mold in Miami and Coral Gables Mold Testing, using state-of-the-art tools to locate hidden mold. Don’t wait—get the clarity and peace of mind that comes from knowing your indoor air is safe.

Who’s Most at Risk?

While anyone can be affected by mold exposure, certain groups face higher risks:

Children and elderly individuals have developing or compromised immune systems that make them more susceptible to mold’s effects. Pregnant women also face increased risks, as exposure can potentially affect fetal development.

People with existing respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD may experience severe symptom flare-ups. Those with compromised immune systems due to illness or medication are also more vulnerable.

Individuals with mold allergies or sensitivities can experience symptoms at much lower exposure levels than the general population.

Interestingly, some people seem naturally more sensitive to mold than others due to genetic factors that affect how their bodies process mycotoxins.

Where Mold Hides in Your Home

Mold is an opportunistic organism that thrives wherever moisture meets organic materials. Understanding common hiding spots can help you identify potential problem areas:

Basements and crawl spaces are prime real estate for mold growth due to higher humidity levels and potential water intrusion. Poor ventilation in these areas compounds the problem.

Bathrooms provide the perfect storm of moisture, warmth, and organic materials like drywall and wood. Mold often grows behind tiles, around fixtures, and in poorly ventilated shower areas.

Kitchens face similar challenges, with additional risks around sinks, dishwashers, and refrigerators where water leaks commonly occur.

HVAC systems can harbor mold in ductwork, especially if there’s been water damage or high humidity. When the system runs, it can distribute spores throughout your entire home.

Attics and roof areas are vulnerable when roof leaks or ice dams allow water infiltration.

The tricky part is that mold often grows in hidden areas—behind walls, under flooring, or in areas you rarely inspect. By the time you see visible mold growth, the problem has likely been developing for months.

Why Professional Testing Is Essential

Many homeowners try to assess mold problems themselves using store-bought test kits or visual inspection alone. While these approaches might catch obvious problems, they often miss the complete picture.

Store-bought test kits have significant limitations. They typically only test the air in one location at one point in time, potentially missing mold that’s dormant or in areas with different air circulation patterns. The results also require interpretation by professionals to determine if levels are problematic.

Visual inspection alone misses hidden mold growth, which is often the most dangerous since it can continue spreading undetected. Additionally, not all mold species look the same, and some toxic varieties can be difficult to identify without laboratory analysis.

Professional mold assessment provides a comprehensive evaluation using advanced equipment and techniques. Certified inspectors know where to look, how to test effectively, and can identify the specific types and concentrations of mold present.

If you’re experiencing symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, or sleep disturbances, it might be time to consider a professional Air and Mold Inspection. At Mold Assessment Services, we specialize in detecting hard-to-find issues like Mold Testing in HVAC systems and conducting thorough evaluations. As a trusted Miami Mold Specialist, we help you uncover whether your home environment is contributing to chronic health issues.

If you’re experiencing symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, or sleep disturbances, it might be time to consider a professional Air and Mold Inspection. At Mold Assessment Services, we specialize in detecting hard-to-find issues like Mold Testing in HVAC systems and conducting thorough evaluations. As a trusted Miami Mold Specialist, we help you uncover whether your home environment is contributing to chronic health issues.

The Professional Assessment Advantage for Mold Fatigue

When you work with qualified mold assessment professionals, you get a thorough evaluation that includes:

Comprehensive inspection of all potential problem areas, including spaces that are difficult to access or commonly overlooked.

Advanced testing methods that can detect mold even when it’s not visible, including air sampling, surface sampling, and bulk material sampling when appropriate.

Species identification to determine not just whether mold is present, but what types you’re dealing with and their potential health risks.

Moisture detection to identify the underlying conditions that allowed mold to grow, which is crucial for preventing future problems.

Detailed reporting that explains the findings in understandable terms and provides clear recommendations for remediation.

Post-remediation verification to ensure that cleanup efforts were successful and your home is safe.

Taking Action: Your Path to Recovery

If you suspect mold might be contributing to your chronic fatigue or other health issues, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. The longer you’re exposed, the more difficult recovery can become.

The first step is professional assessment to determine if mold is present and at what levels. This gives you the information needed to make informed decisions about remediation and helps your healthcare providers understand potential environmental factors affecting your health.

If mold is found, professional remediation is typically necessary to safely remove contamination and address the moisture conditions that allowed it to grow. Attempting to clean up significant mold problems yourself can actually make exposure worse by disturbing spores and spreading contamination.

During and after remediation, you may also want to work with healthcare providers familiar with mold-related illness to address any ongoing health effects and support your body’s recovery.

Your Health Can’t Wait

Chronic fatigue from mold exposure is a real and serious health concern that affects thousands of people. The good news is that with proper identification and remediation, most people see significant improvement in their symptoms.

If you’re experiencing persistent fatigue, brain fog, or other unexplained health issues, don’t overlook the possibility that your environment might be making you sick. Professional mold assessment can provide the answers you need to reclaim your health and energy.

At MAS, our certified professionals use state-of-the-art equipment and proven protocols to identify mold problems and guide you toward effective solutions. We understand the health impacts of mold exposure and work quickly to give you the comprehensive assessment you need.

Don’t spend another day wondering if your home is making you sick. Contact Mold Assessment Services today for a thorough mold assessment and take the first step toward feeling like yourself again.

Additional Resources

For more information about mold and health effects, consult these authoritative sources:

Remember: Your fatigue isn’t “just stress” or “getting older”—it could be a sign that your home environment needs attention. Professional mold assessment is an investment in your health that could change your life.

The Hidden Dangers of Mold

Answer these quick questions to see if your home may need a professional mold inspection.

1. Do you notice a persistent musty or earthy smell in your home?


2. Have you or anyone in your household experienced unexplained allergies, asthma, or respiratory problems?


3. Have you seen visible signs of mold growth on walls, ceilings, or furniture?


4. Have you had recent water damage, leaks, or flooding in your home?


5. Does your home have areas with poor ventilation (bathrooms, basements, crawl spaces)?



Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes recurrent symptoms, including coughing, chest tightness, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Asthma triggers include allergies or exposure to irritants in the air (including tobacco smoke). Children with asthma are at risk of having severe attacks that can result in hospitalization. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA)  reports that in 2021, 38.7% of children with asthma aged 18 and under experienced one or more asthma attacks. The incidence was higher in children under 5, with about 63.1% having an attack. Despite a decline in asthma attacks from 2001 to 2020, as reported by the CDC, it’s estimated that half of the children with asthma still have uncontrolled asthma. Continue reading to learn how Mold Assessment Services can provide expert testing to improve indoor air quality.

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), asthma is a common condition in the United States, affecting an estimated 26 million Americans. This number includes approximately 6 million children. Asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic illnesses among children, leading to around 13.8 million missed school days each year.

Asthma in children is a growing concern, with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) estimating that approximately 6 million kids in the U.S. suffer from this chronic lung disease. The triggers for asthma attacks, such as mold, dust mites, pet dander, and tobacco smoke, highlight the crucial role of maintaining good indoor air quality. Mold Assessment Services offers expert testing to identify these triggers, helping to improve the living conditions for asthma sufferers and reduce the frequency of attacks.

Asthma in children is a growing concern, with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) estimating that approximately 6 million kids in the U.S. suffer from this chronic lung disease. The triggers for asthma attacks, such as mold, dust mites, pet dander, and tobacco smoke, highlight the crucial role of maintaining good indoor air quality. Mold Assessment Services offers expert testing to identify these triggers, helping to improve the living conditions for asthma sufferers and reduce the frequency of attacks.

Major Triggers for Asthma

Major asthma triggers include mold, dust mites, cockroaches, pet dander, and pollen. Smoking is also a significant trigger for asthma attacks because it irritates the lungs and makes them more susceptible to allergens. Sudden temperature changes can cause an attack as well. It can happen when you go from being in a heated area like your home or car into an air-conditioned space like an office building or movie theater where the air conditioning is at full blast.

Exercise is also essential in preventing asthma attacks because it helps strengthen your lungs so they become less sensitive to allergens and other irritants that may cause an asthma attack.

Knowing What to Expect

You can prevent asthma attacks by avoiding your triggers. If you have asthma, here are some things you can do:

  • Know the symptoms of asthma.
  • Know the triggers of your asthma.
  • Be alert to signs of an attack so you can take action immediately.
  • Get help directly—go to an emergency room or call 911 if it’s an emergency. 

You cannot get enough oxygen into your body on your own (this includes not being able to breathe because of mucus buildup).

Asthma Affects Nearly 6 Million Kids in the U.S.

Asthma is a chronic disease affecting the airways, making breathing hard. Most people with asthma have symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath when they exercise or are around something that triggers their asthma.

You may be more likely to develop asthma if you:

  • Have allergies or family members who have allergies or other lung diseases like emphysema or chronic bronchitis.
  • Live in areas with high pollution levels (like cities) or where many allergens (like furry pets) exist.
  • Are overweight as an adult because extra weight puts more stress on your lungs and makes it harder for them to get enough oxygen into your bloodstream.
Indoor Air quality testing is an essential part of managing chronic lung disease in children, especially asthma. Environmental health significantly impacts respiratory disorders like asthma, necessitating regular home inspections. Mold remediation is a critical step in reducing allergic reactions and improving overall health and wellness in homes. A comprehensive health evaluation can identify risks from airborne irritants and suggest effective preventative measures. Understanding major asthma triggers and preventing asthma attacks are crucial, especially considering the impact of the indoor environment on asthma; thus, the importance of air quality testing and addressing mold-related health concerns cannot be overstated, as they are integral to effective asthma symptoms and management strategies.

Indoor Air quality testing is an essential part of managing chronic lung disease in children, especially asthma. Environmental health significantly impacts respiratory disorders like asthma, necessitating regular home inspections. Mold remediation is a critical step in reducing allergic reactions and improving overall health and wellness in homes. A comprehensive health evaluation can identify risks from airborne irritants and suggest effective preventative measures.

Indoor Air Quality Inspections

Indoor Air Quality Inspections can help you identify any contaminants in your home. Poor indoor air quality and moisture control problems can cause various health issues. Houses with mold are five times more likely to have occupants with asthma than those without mold problems.

A professional Indoor Air Quality Inspector will check for healthy levels of carbon dioxide, humidity, temperature, and other factors that can impact the health of your home and family. This air quality inspection allows testing for common health issues such as asthma and allergies. And learn about potential risks for developing respiratory illnesses.

MAS Can Help You Clear the Air with Advanced Indoor Air Quality Inspection Services

As you can see, asthma is a severe condition that affects millions of children. Since it is essential to know the symptoms to get your child to a doctor if they are having trouble breathing, it’s important to have an indoor air quality inspection done so we can assess whether there are any contaminates present in your home or work environment. If we find mold growth on your property and believe that it could be causing health risks due to exposure, we will provide you with the information that you need in order to hold someone accountable for the damage caused by their negligence.

If you notice mold in your home or work environment, it’s essential to get it checked out by an expert. If you’re worried about the health risks of mold exposure and want to find out what high-quality mold inspection services can do for you, contact us today at 305-244-7379 or fill out the form to contact us.