Monsoon brings much needed reprieve from the heat but also brings levels of humidity that impact your health and home. Not only does the humidity impact your skin and hair but also manifests as dampness in your living spaces. While most of us are not bothered by the musty smell, or a few spots on the walls, it may be a hidden breeding ground for mould which can pose a significant risk to your respiratory health.
Moreover, for many, the monsoon’s persistent humidity exacerbates existing vulnerabilities, turning a seemingly benign environmental factor into a serious health concern. This monsoon, pulmonary experts will delve into the less-discussed medical implications of mould exposure, what treatment options are available, and most importantly, simple, actionable strategies to identify, prevent, and mitigate mould growth in your home.
How mould impacts respiratory health
Dr Kalpesh Vaishnav, pulmonologist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai, explains, “Mould thrives in wet, damp environments, particularly on unpainted walls. As it grows, it releases tiny spores and fungal particles into the air. Inhaling these can irritate the lungs, leading to a variety of health issues. Upon inhalation, exposure can initiate inflammation of the airways, allergic responses, and even long-term breathing diseases.” He emphasises that addressing the source of moisture through proper ventilation, chemical disinfection, waterproofing, and repainting is crucial to prevent ongoing exposure and recurrence.
Beyond common allergies, mould exposure can trigger more severe lung conditions. Vaishnav points out, “Prolonged or extreme exposure can lead to pneumonia, especially fungal pneumonia, which can be perilous if not treated properly. It can also cause serious bronchitis and, in cases of massive fungal infection, even respiratory failure. These risks are heightened when mould growth is extensive, and spores are not adequately cleared.”
Diagnosing and treating mould-related respiratory illnesses
Dr. Nimish Shah, consultant, pulmonary medicine, Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, shares,” Medical suspicion of mould-related respiratory illnesses often arises when there are sudden inconsistencies in a patient`s symptoms and inadequate control of underlying respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD.”
Diagnosis can be approached in three ways:
1. A CT scan of the chest
2. Blood profiling to identify specific antigen tests for sensitisation to fungus or mould.
3. A skin prick test
“All three are fairly robust, and if the diagnosis fits the bill with these tests, that is quite diagnostic,” says Dr Shah.
The primary step in treating mould-induced lung problems is to eliminate exposure to mould. The doctor highlights that mould is commonly found in homes and workplaces due to dampness and leakages, particularly in humid cities. Definitive treatment typically involves a course of steroids or a combination of antifungals with steroids. However, he clarifies, “Mould infections in the lungs can vary, and it`s a wide spectrum, so based on how the patient manifests, the treatment options would vary.”
Recognising symptoms and identifying susceptible individuals
The typical symptoms of mould exposure, as described by Dr Vaishnav, include fever with chills or rigors, prolonged cough, and shortness of breath. “These can be difficult to distinguish from other monsoon-borne illnesses like viral or bacterial respiratory infections,” he observes. However, the expert notes that in mould disease, symptoms usually persist or worsen due to repeated exposure in the residential setting. Inadequate air circulation, dampness, and a history of mould in the household can augment the impact.
Certain individuals are more vulnerable to mould-related lung problems. Vaishnav identifies the elderly, diabetics, patients with chronic lung conditions (such as asthma or COPD), and the immunocompromised (like organ transplant patients or those on long-term steroids or immunosuppressants) as being more susceptible. “In these individuals, mould exposure can lead to more dangerous and even life-threatening infections due to their compromised immune systems,” Dr Vaishnav adds.
Long-term effects and preventive measures
Even seemingly mild, repeated exposure to mould can have significant long-term effects on lung health. Dr Vaishnav warns, “Individuals may develop chronic asthma or, in some cases, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in the future. Another potential consequence is hypersensitivity pneumonia, where continuous inflammation of the lungs occurs due to prolonged contact with fungal spores. This condition results in deteriorating shortness of breath and visible alterations in lung tissue on imaging studies like chest CT scan.” Therefore, he advises that even the seemingly minor symptoms should not be ignored if exposure is ongoing.
While there are no specific over-the-counter remedies for mould-related respiratory illnesses, Shah emphasises preventive measures. He advises, “Clean your house with disinfectants to get rid of mould and check for leakages.” He also points out that demolished old buildings with uncleared debris can be significant sources of mould growth that need to be addressed.
For individuals living in damp homes, especially during the monsoon, Shah offers practical advice to minimise mould exposure and protect lung health. While environmental factors like increased humidity during the monsoon are unchangeable, simple actions can help. Shah recommends keeping your rooms well-ventilated and, for those who are severely symptomatic, using a dehumidifier in the house or room.
When should one seek medical assistance? “If you are an asthmatic who normally has well-controlled symptoms but suddenly finds your asthma worsening, and there`s possible environmental exposure to mould, that`s the time one should suspect mould-related respiratory illness,” he concludes.