Mold Symptoms in Kids: How to Spot the Warning Signs

Mold grows in basements, bathrooms, and anywhere with excess moisture. It spreads through mold spores, affecting indoor air quality and creating hidden health risks. Children are especially vulnerable because their immune systems are still developing.

If mold is in your home, it could be affecting your child’s health and well-being. Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) and other types of mold thrive in damp environments, often going unnoticed until problems arise.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to identify mold exposure in kids, when to seek help, and what steps to take if mold is found in your home.

What Causes Mold Exposure in Children?

Mold needs moisture, warmth, and organic material to grow. It thrives in basements, bathrooms, attics, and areas with poor ventilation. 

Common Sources of Mold Growth

Leaks and Water Damage	Leaky pipes, cracked roofs, and broken windows let water seep in. Damp drywall, wood, and insulation become breeding grounds for mold spores. A slow drip under a sink or a hidden leak behind a wall can turn into a full-blown infestation before you notice it.
Indoor Humidity	Air conditioners, exhaust fans, and dehumidifiers help, but when they fail, mold spreads. Condensation on windows, musty odors, and damp walls mean trouble. Poor airflow traps moisture, giving mold a place to grow.
Household Materials	Mold doesn’t always grow where you can see it. It spreads inside drywall, carpets, and furniture. HVAC systems and air ducts push mold spores through your home. By the time you see stains, the problem runs deep.
Mildew and Mold in Damp Areas	Bathrooms, kitchens, and crawl spaces are mold hotspots. Shower walls, tile grout, and under sinks collect moisture. Mildew starts on the surface, but if ignored, it spreads into walls and floors.

Why Children Are at Higher Risk

Children breathe faster and have weaker immune systems. This makes them more sensitive to indoor mold and airborne allergens. Black mold and other types of mold release mycotoxins, which affect children’s health more than adults.

Common Black Mold Symptoms in Kids 

Mold exposure doesn’t always cause immediate symptoms. It builds up over time and can affect children’s health in different ways. 

Early signs of Mold Exposure

• Sneezing and runny nose ─ Often mistaken for seasonal allergies.
• Itchy eyes and watery eyes ─ A reaction to airborne mold particles.
• Sore throat and coughing ─ Mold in air conditioners, basements, and damp areas can irritate the throat.
• Skin rashes ─ Contact with black mold or Penicillium can cause redness and itching.

Respiratory Issues from Mold Growth

• Shortness of breath and wheezing: Mold spores can inflame airways, especially in kids with asthma.
• Sinus congestion and pressure: Indoor mold can trigger sinus flare-ups and hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
• Persistent cough: Toxic black mold can cause long-lasting irritation.

When to Seek Medical Help for Mold Exposure

Mild symptoms can be frustrating. Severe symptoms can be dangerous. Mold exposure affects everyone differently, but some reactions require urgent care.

Severe Symptoms That Need Immediate Attention

Children with weakened immune systems, asthma, or mold allergies are at higher risk for serious complications. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a lung condition caused by mold inhalation, can develop over time. The CDC and EPA recommend immediate medical attention for children with worsening symptoms, such as:

• Shortness of breath or wheezing that doesn’t stop
• Severe sinus pain or pressure that won’t go away
• Persistent rashes, hives, or swelling
• Memory loss, confusion, or neurological symptoms linked to toxic black mold
• Fever, dizziness, or chest tightness from prolonged mold exposure

Mycotoxins and Mold Poisoning

Some molds, like Stachybotrys chartarum and Aspergillus, produce mycotoxins that can affect the nervous system and respiratory health. Long-term exposure may lead to:

• Neurological issues such as dizziness or tremors
• Chronic respiratory illness that doesn’t improve
• Severe allergic reactions that worsen with exposure

Document Everything for Medical and Legal Records 

If a pediatrician diagnoses mold-related health problems, keep detailed records. Medical reports, discharge paperwork, and prescriptions can be critical in legal cases. If mold growth is linked to water damage, excess moisture, or poor indoor air quality, it can be a serious issue. A mold remediation report can strengthen a case against a negligent landlord.

If mold in your home has caused serious health problems, legal action may be an option. Contact a mold attorney to review your case and explore your rights.

FAQs About Children and Mold

Can mold exposure affect a child’s sleep?

Yes. Mold spores cause stuffy noses, coughing, and breathing issues. Kids with mold allergies may wake up with itchy eyes, sore throat, or headaches. Poor air quality can also trigger asthma flare-ups at night.

How long does it take for mold to affect a child’s health?

It depends. Some kids react immediately with sneezing or itchy eyes. Others develop respiratory problems after weeks or months of exposure. Black mold can cause long-term health issues if left untreated.

Can mold exposure cause stomach problems?

Toxic mold can lead to nausea, vomiting, and digestive issues. Some kids develop food sensitivities or gut inflammation after long-term exposure.

Does mold exposure make children more likely to get sick?

Mold weakens the immune system. Kids exposed to indoor mold may get more colds, sinus infections, and breathing problems.

Can cleaning mold make symptoms worse?

Scrubbing mold releases spores into the air, which can trigger coughing, allergy symptoms, and asthma attacks. When cleaning, use ventilation, exhaust fans, and a dehumidifier. For large infestations, call a mold remediation expert.

Contact Our Team of Mold Attorneys for a Review Today

Mold can harm your child’s health. If your landlord ignored water damage, excess moisture, or visible mold, they may be responsible for your child’s medical issues. You don’t have to deal with this alone.

A legal team can help you:

• Prove negligence: Gather mold inspection reports, medical records, and proof of unsafe conditions.
• Seek compensation: Recover costs for medical bills, relocation, and mold remediation.
• Hold landlords accountable: Protect your child’s health and future tenants from the same risks.

Time matters. Mold exposure cases require strong evidence, and waiting too long can weaken your claim. A free consultation can give you the answers you need.

Take the first step. Contact the Law Office of Paul Mankin today to discuss your rights.