host posted on March 08, 2009 13:00
Exposure to molds can worsen nasal sinus problems. Molds contain many allergens and mycotoxins which can irritate the nose mucosa (mucosa= skin like structure). In addition, some molds can cause localized or systemic infection in the nose. Many people notice worsened nasal problems when they stay in moldy buildings and/or during late summer and early fall when outdoor mold levels tend to be highest. Nasal problems are also common to those occupationally exposed to molds, such as farmers. Such nasal problems are often accompanied by other symptoms such as asthma, depression or fatigue. Allergens from the molds Alternaria (which grows on decaying vegetation in summer and early fall) and Aspergillus are believed to be particularly likely to cause nasal irritation and allergic reactions.
Most cases of nasal congestion and swelling (rhinosinusitis) are caused by, at least in part by, exposure to molds. A study published in the September 1999 Mayo Clinic Proceedings reported that 93% of 101 rhinosinusitis patients had considerable nasal mold growth and other features suggestive of a condition called allergic fungal sinusitis.
The use of antifungal drugs and reduced indoor mold exposure can significantly improve nasal problems. A study published in the July 2003 Archives of Environmental Health examined 639 patients with chronic nasal problems. Of 365 patients who reduced their indoor air exposures to mold and used antifungal and antibacterial nasal sprays, 94% experienced total relief from their nasal symptoms. Antifungal drugs used in the sprays included clotrimazole and Amphotericin B. Little relief was noted in 219 patients who did not reduce their indoor mold exposure.
Dr. Don Dennis of Atlanta has also reported that many other health problems are associated with mold related rhinosinusitis, including hormonal problems. Out of a total of 79 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis, 40 or 51% had growth hormone deficiency. Lack of growth hormone can cause many health problems including chronic fatigue, depression, poor immunity, poor exercise tolerance, weight gain, breathing problems, heart and neurological problems and poor concentration. Other studies had reported higher rates of cancer and infections in those with low growth hormone levels.
A large percentage of these rhinosinusitis patients also had deficiencies in thyroid or parathyroid hormones as well. Lack of thyroid hormone can cause many problems including fatigue, depression, lower immunity, poor concentration, cold intolerance and weight gain. Lack of parathyroid hormone can cause muscle fatigue and weakness, spasms, and changes in bones and skin. Other studies have reported adrenal failure or failure of sex hormones in heavily mold exposed patients.
The exact mechanism in which mold infection or mold toxins in the nasal tissues cause hormonal problems is not clear. Perhaps the pituitary gland is damaged by molds. Perhaps the molds trigger some auto immune reaction. The pituitary gland is a major endocrine gland involved in growth hormone production and production of thyroid hormone and parathyroid stimulating hormone. Some preliminary research suggests that these hormonal imbalances may be improved by lowering ones mold exposure and by using anti-mold drugs.
Luke Curtis MS, MD, CIH