CDC Warning of Mold Exposure During Pregnancy

[Guest guest]

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Exposure to Mold

Information for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

This sheet talks about the risks that exposure to mold can have during

pregnancy. With each pregnancy, all women have a 3% to 5% chance of having a

baby

with a birth defect. This information should not take the place of medical

care and

advice from your health care provider.

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. They tend to

grow in

warm, damp places. Molds spread by making spores that are able to live almost

anywhere. The damp conditions after a water leak or a flood can cause mold

to grow

in homes.

Mold can be many different colors. Mold can also have a musty, earthy smell.

The

four most common molds that grow in homes are Cladosporium, Penicillium,

Alternaria, and Aspergillus.

Some molds produce substances that can make people sick. Symptoms from mold

exposure include stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, rashes, wheezing, and

sometimes

fever and shortness of breath. Not everyone who is exposed to mold will have

these

symptoms. People who have asthma and other chronic breathing problems can be

more sensitive to mold. People who have a weak immune system are at higher

risk

for getting a mold infection in their lungs. If you have been exposed to

mold and

have any of these symptoms, talk to a health care provider right away.

There are no human studies that look at exposure to mold during pregnancy.

Studies

have shown that the substances that molds produce may raise the risk of birth

defects in animals. These studies may not apply to humans because the animals

were exposed to these substances in a very different way than a human might

be exposed.

If you are pregnant and there is mold in your home, it should be removed

quickly.

If you have any of the symptoms of mold exposure, talk to a health care

provider

right away.

There are no studies that look at exposure to mold during breastfeeding.

Because

mold in the home might make both the mother and baby sick, it should be

removed

from the home right away.

•Keep the moisture levels in your home between 40% and 60%.

Devices that measure the moisture level (humidity) are called

hygrometers. You can buy them at hardware stores, department

stores, and electronics stores for under $50.

How can I clean up mold after a water leak or flood?

Is “black moldâ€(Stachybotrys) worse than the other common molds? Should I

be

worried if I have this mold in my home?

•Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier during humid months.

•Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.

•Clean bathrooms with products that kill mold.

•Do not put carpet in bathrooms and basements.

Important Note: Pregnant women should avoid cleaning large areas of mold

themselves. If possible, have another family member, friend, or professional

do the

clean up.

•Open windows and doors to provide fresh air.

•Always wear goggles and rubber gloves when cleaning up mold.

•Remove all items that have been wet for more than 48 hours and

that cannot be cleaned and dried completely. These may include carpeting,

upholstery (such as sofas and chairs), wallpaper, drywall, floor and ceiling

tiles, insulation, clothing, leather, paper, wood, and food.

•To remove mold growth from hard surfaces, use cleaners from the store

or a bleach solution of 1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water. A recent

study showed that a bleach solution is the best way to kill mold.

Important note: Never mix bleach with ammonia. Mixing bleach and ammonia

causes fumes that can make you very sick.

•If you have questions about cleaning up mold in your home, call the

Environmental Protection Agency’s Indoor Air Quality Information

Clearinghouse at 800-438-4318

Stachybotrys is a greenish-black mold. It can grow in homes, but it is not

common. There are a few reports of molds such as Stachybotrys causing

bleeding

in the lungs in infants. But these cases are rare, and there is not enough

information

to prove that they were caused by mold.

If you think that your home may have Stachybotrys, you do NOT need to have it

tested. ALL molds could possibly make you sick, so they should all be

cleaned and

removed as soon as possible. Stachybotrys should be cleaned up in the same

way as

any other type of mold.

Exposures during pregnancy or breastfeeding,

call the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists at

866-626-6847

or visit them online at _www.OTISpregnancy.org_

(http://www.OTISpregnancy.org) .

To Learn More About:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Facts about mold and dampness.

2005. [cited 2005 Sep].

Available from URL: _http://www.cdc.gov/mold/dampness_facts.htm_

(http://www.cdc.gov/mold/dampness_facts.htm) .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Investigation of acute

idiopathic pulmonary hemorrhage

among infants—Massachusetts, December 2002–June 2003. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly

Rep

2004;53:817–20.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Molds in the environment. 2005.

[cited 2005 Nov 23].

Available from URL: _http://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm_

(http://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm) .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Protect yourself from mold.

2005. [cited 2005 Nov 23].

Available from URL: _http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/protect.asp_

(http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/protect.asp) .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Update: pulmonary

hemorrhage/hemosiderosis among

infants–Cleveland, Ohio, 1993–1996. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep

2000;49:180–4.

DiPaolo JA, Elis J, Erwin H. Teratogenic response by hamsters, rats and mice

to aflatoxin B1. Nature

1967;215:638–9.

Etzel RA, Montana E, Gorenson WG, Kullman GJ, Allan TM, Dearborn DG. Acute

pulmonary hemorrhage

in infants associated with exposure to Stachybotrys atra and other fungi.

Arch Pediatr Adolesc

Med 1998;152:757–62.

AW, Hood RD, Lee HL. Teratogenic effects of ochratoxin A in mice.

Teratology 1974;9:93–7.

Korpinen E. Studies on Stachybotrys alternans: effect of low doses of

stachybotrys toxins on pregnancy

of mice. Acta Path Microbiol Scand 1974;82:457–64.

Martyny JW, Harbeck RJ, Pacheco K, Barker EA, Sills M, Silveira L, et al.

Aerosolized sodium hypochlorite

inhibits viability and allergenicity of mold on building materials. J

Allergy Clin Immunol

2005;116:630–5.

Reddy CS, Reddy RV, AW, Ciegler A. Teratogenicity of secalonic acid D

in mice. J Toxicol

[Guest guest]

Goodmorning Everyone,

I have often wondered about the mold in pregnancy myself. But, have also

wondered how would exposure effect a fetus/baby if one would become pregnant

after a large exposure. Noticing this article from CDC tells us to consult a

medical practitioner, I wonder: since most doctors don't even acknowledge mold,

what would they tell you? If you were pregnant would they tell you mold doesn't

effect the fetus? If something were wrong with the baby after birth, would they

connect the dots? If you were exposed to large amounts of mold, enough to make

you sick would they warn you about getting pregnant? Is there a reason you

should worry? My daughter is only 11 yrs old, but it often enters my mind. She

of course has been exposed to huge amounts, and has suffered for years. She is

not the only one. What if these kids do grow up and have babies and something

is wrong w/the baby? These are not questions that I am expecting to getting

answers to, just things that I think about. We all know that no medical

practitioner is going to give us an informed, knowledgeable answer.

Just questions for thought.

[] CDC Warning of Mold Exposure During Pregnancy

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Exposure to Mold

Information for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

This sheet talks about the risks that exposure to mold can have during

pregnancy. With each pregnancy, all women have a 3% to 5% chance of having a

baby

with a birth defect. This information should not take the place of medical

care and

advice from your health care provider.

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. They tend to

grow in

warm, damp places. Molds spread by making spores that are able to live almost

anywhere. The damp conditions after a water leak or a flood can cause mold

to grow

in homes.

Mold can be many different colors. Mold can also have a musty, earthy smell.

The

four most common molds that grow in homes are Cladosporium, Penicillium,

Alternaria, and Aspergillus.

Some molds produce substances that can make people sick. Symptoms from mold

exposure include stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, rashes, wheezing, and

sometimes

fever and shortness of breath. Not everyone who is exposed to mold will have

these

symptoms. People who have asthma and other chronic breathing problems can be

more sensitive to mold. People who have a weak immune system are at higher

risk

for getting a mold infection in their lungs. If you have been exposed to

mold and

have any of these symptoms, talk to a health care provider right away.

There are no human studies that look at exposure to mold during pregnancy.

Studies

have shown that the substances that molds produce may raise the risk of birth

defects in animals. These studies may not apply to humans because the animals

were exposed to these substances in a very different way than a human might

be exposed.

If you are pregnant and there is mold in your home, it should be removed

quickly.

If you have any of the symptoms of mold exposure, talk to a health care

provider

right away.

There are no studies that look at exposure to mold during breastfeeding.

Because

mold in the home might make both the mother and baby sick, it should be

removed

from the home right away.

•Keep the moisture levels in your home between 40% and 60%.

Devices that measure the moisture level (humidity) are called

hygrometers. You can buy them at hardware stores, department

stores, and electronics stores for under $50.

How can I clean up mold after a water leak or flood?

Is “black moldâ€(Stachybotrys) worse than the other common molds? Should I

be

worried if I have this mold in my home?

•Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier during humid months.

•Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.

•Clean bathrooms with products that kill mold.

•Do not put carpet in bathrooms and basements.

Important Note: Pregnant women should avoid cleaning large areas of mold

themselves. If possible, have another family member, friend, or professional

do the

clean up.

•Open windows and doors to provide fresh air.

•Always wear goggles and rubber gloves when cleaning up mold.

•Remove all items that have been wet for more than 48 hours and

that cannot be cleaned and dried completely. These may include carpeting,

upholstery (such as sofas and chairs), wallpaper, drywall, floor and ceiling

tiles, insulation, clothing, leather, paper, wood, and food.

•To remove mold growth from hard surfaces, use cleaners from the store

or a bleach solution of 1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water. A recent

study showed that a bleach solution is the best way to kill mold.

Important note: Never mix bleach with ammonia. Mixing bleach and ammonia

causes fumes that can make you very sick.

•If you have questions about cleaning up mold in your home, call the

Environmental Protection Agency’s Indoor Air Quality Information

Clearinghouse at 800-438-4318

Stachybotrys is a greenish-black mold. It can grow in homes, but it is not

common. There are a few reports of molds such as Stachybotrys causing

bleeding

in the lungs in infants. But these cases are rare, and there is not enough

information

to prove that they were caused by mold.

If you think that your home may have Stachybotrys, you do NOT need to have it

tested. ALL molds could possibly make you sick, so they should all be

cleaned and

removed as soon as possible. Stachybotrys should be cleaned up in the same

way as

any other type of mold.

Exposures during pregnancy or breastfeeding,

call the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists at

866-626-6847

or visit them online at _www.OTISpregnancy.org_

(http://www.OTISpregnancy.org) .

To Learn More About:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Facts about mold and dampness.

2005. [cited 2005 Sep].

Available from URL: _http://www.cdc.gov/mold/dampness_facts.htm_

(http://www.cdc.gov/mold/dampness_facts.htm) .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Investigation of acute

idiopathic pulmonary hemorrhage

among infants—Massachusetts, December 2002–June 2003. MMWR Morb Mortal

Wkly

Rep

2004;53:817–20.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Molds in the environment. 2005.

[cited 2005 Nov 23].

Available from URL: _http://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm_

(http://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm) .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Protect yourself from mold.

2005. [cited 2005 Nov 23].

Available from URL: _http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/protect.asp_

(http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/protect.asp) .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Update: pulmonary

hemorrhage/hemosiderosis among

infants–Cleveland, Ohio, 1993–1996. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep

2000;49:180–4.

DiPaolo JA, Elis J, Erwin H. Teratogenic response by hamsters, rats and mice

to aflatoxin B1. Nature

1967;215:638–9.

Etzel RA, Montana E, Gorenson WG, Kullman GJ, Allan TM, Dearborn DG. Acute

pulmonary hemorrhage

in infants associated with exposure to Stachybotrys atra and other fungi.

Arch Pediatr Adolesc

Med 1998;152:757–62.

AW, Hood RD, Lee HL. Teratogenic effects of ochratoxin A in mice.

Teratology 1974;9:93–7.

Korpinen E. Studies on Stachybotrys alternans: effect of low doses of

stachybotrys toxins on pregnancy

of mice. Acta Path Microbiol Scand 1974;82:457–64.

Martyny JW, Harbeck RJ, Pacheco K, Barker EA, Sills M, Silveira L, et al.

Aerosolized sodium hypochlorite

inhibits viability and allergenicity of mold on building materials. J

Allergy Clin Immunol

2005;116:630–5.

Reddy CS, Reddy RV, AW, Ciegler A. Teratogenicity of secalonic acid D

in mice. J Toxicol

[Guest guest]

I have also put alot of thought into this topic, since learning about

my mold problems and realizing that I've had many potential exposures

over the years, including a big hit when I was four months pregnant

with my first child (now 13 1/2). I ended up with high blood

pressure, the baby was induced, was blue when he was born and spent 3

days in ICU. He also had a birth defect (hypospadias) that they

never could explain (they said I must have had a bad illness, very

high temperature and/or taken abx when I was pregnant and none of

those were true).

I don't think any doctor would take you seriously, although you can

find published medical literature highlighting that the toxins do

cross the placenta. Also, taking this one step further, I also

believe the toxins are passed in breastmilk, which contains alot of

fat/cholesterol. My oldest son didn't sleep well and was extremely

fussy until he was just over 2 (in hindsight this coincides when he

stopped nursing).

Since both my boys inherited my mold gene, Dr. Shoemaker ran their

tests and they've got the typical abnormalities (the oldest failed

the VCS, whereas the younger one did not). They've been on the CSM

since the end of June and during the first few weeks of treatment

their navals were oozing (red and gunky). In my mind, this is

evidence that the toxins were concentrated in their navals/umbilical

cord.

I think if you get your daughter treated and make her aware of the

health risks of mold exposure, she'll be much more likely to have a

healthy baby/pregancy (in the future). My youngest son also has a

dreaded genotype (from his father) and he is already aware that

he is an extra sensitive person and needs to take precautions

going forward. His 2 DQ genes are also the two for celiac disease, so

he knows that all of his children will inherit the CD genes, as

well. Although, this is somewhat disheartening to realize what our

children and grandchildren have to deal with, I think it's far better

than suffering for 40+ years like I did.

Be well,

B.

>

> Goodmorning Everyone,

> I have often wondered about the mold in pregnancy myself. But,

have also wondered how would exposure effect a fetus/baby if one

would become pregnant after a large exposure. Noticing this article

from CDC tells us to consult a medical practitioner, I wonder: since

most doctors don't even acknowledge mold, what would they tell you?

If you were pregnant would they tell you mold doesn't effect the

fetus? If something were wrong with the baby after birth, would they

connect the dots? If you were exposed to large amounts of mold,

enough to make you sick would they warn you about getting pregnant?

Is there a reason you should worry? My daughter is only 11 yrs old,

but it often enters my mind. She of course has been exposed to huge

amounts, and has suffered for years. She is not the only one. What

if these kids do grow up and have babies and something is wrong w/the

baby? These are not questions that I am expecting to getting answers

to, just things that I think about. We all know that no medical

practitioner is going to give us an informed, knowledgeable answer.

> Just questions for thought.

>

---- B snipped the remainder to keep the thread short ------

[Guest guest]

Yes , " consult your health care

practicioner " now sounds to me like " good luck

sucker " , your sick and you won't get any help

anywhere.

These 'messages' sound good but in reality, they

are just so much verbage. I took some medicine

that said if you develope a sore, painful throat,

go off medicine and contact your doctor, saying

in some patients it can cause 'rare side affect

of suppressing your immune system'. Well I had

hugely painful throat within a week or less of

being on medicine, even though I know other

people who have taken medicine and had no sore or

even irritated throat.

Doctor said not to worry about it, did not take

any blood tests, after further questioning him,

he left room and apparently did some reading and

came back with statement meant to ease my mind,

" It just has something to do with your white

blood cells. I wouldn't worry about it. "

LOL, or cry whichever! Insert said doctor will

carefully monitor your health afterwards for a

time...wrong. I couldn't get him or any other

doctor for that matter to even TEST my health.

This was when all my health problems started,

2003. When I mentioned to a few other doctors

about being on medicine and feeling sick since

and warning, they just said " I've never heard of

that " , and that was the end of that, as if that

MATTERED. I even take a copy of insert with me.

So they were ignoring pharmacy insert on

medicine. Now, I just don't go to a regular

doctor unless I have something EASY and OBVIOUS

and that definately requires a PILL of some sort,

since I know they are INTO that sort of thing.

--- <eaglestone@...> wrote:

> > Noticing this article from CDC tells us to

> consult a medical practitioner

[Guest guest]

Hi , I think about children and mold exposure ALL THE TIME!!! I also

believe there

is a huge reason to worry about children being exposed including a fetus. If

most Drs. are

like my local Dr., who said I must have a virus, they will most likely say

not to worry.

Since I was a teacher I saw the symptoms, in many children, and believe

that many

will be extremely sick in the future. It seems to me that many of our

schools are in

terrible condition so that probably means many sick children down the road.

Many are

probably sick now and don't even know why!!

Other than a few Drs. we all know and trust I think

the rest are too busy seeing their 45 patients a day & making big bucks!!!

I keep saying it's the year 2006 and our medical community isn't informed.

Did you get a chance to read the National Geographic story about all the

chemicals in our

world? It is frightening and didn't even mention mold toxins!!!!!!

Sue

Goodmorning Everyone,

I have often wondered about the mold in pregnancy myself. But, have also

wondered how would exposure effect a fetus/baby if one would become pregnant

after a large exposure. Noticing this article from CDC tells us to consult a

medical practitioner, I wonder: since most doctors don't even acknowledge mold,

what would they tell you? If you were pregnant would they tell you mold

doesn't effect the fetus? If something were wrong with the baby after birth,

would

they connect the dots? If you were exposed to large amounts of mold, enough

to make you sick would they warn you about getting pregnant? Is there a

reason you should worry? My daughter is only 11 yrs old, but it often enters my

mind. She of course has been exposed to huge amounts, and has suffered for

years. She is not the only one. What if these kids do grow up and have babies

and something is wrong w/the baby? These are not questions that I am expecting

to getting answers to, just things that I think about. We all know that no

medical practitioner is going to give us an informed, knowledgeable answer.

Just questions for thought.

[Guest guest]

-I hear that, I'm fairly parinoid to go to a hospital or a doctor

these days and I know enough to know I dont need

steroids,antibiotics,etc. and what I do need would be like pulling

teeth to get. doctors often dont listen to thier patients,no matter

how long you've been going through this or what you know. thier like

robots, set of test, set of drugs, come back in a few weeks for a

refill. what happened to the bedside manners.I am actually so angry

about past misdiagnoses and treatment that Im afraid I might get

irrate with the next doctor that gives me that look, my getting some

medical attention even in the right path around my area is pretty

neal-notta. so basicly I have to find someone with a slight clue

farther away and take things very carefully and slowly and try to

lead him into getting to the root which means

dna,mda,nmda,matoblictic,cns and t-cell testing,spect scans, etc.

and even if I manage to get a infectious disease or a environmental

doctor to do the testing, will he even know what needs done or how to

interpet the results????????????? . I'm really not up to researching

every single aspect of this nightmare but i have had to because its

the only way I can get answers. weather it well actually help me any,

I don't know. I couldn't even get doctors at this hospital or even

some well known clinics that I've been to, to look at past medical

records.-- In , bbw <barb1283@...> wrote:

>

> Yes , " consult your health care

> practicioner " now sounds to me like " good luck

> sucker " , your sick and you won't get any help

> anywhere.

>

> These 'messages' sound good but in reality, they

> are just so much verbage. I took some medicine

> that said if you develope a sore, painful throat,

> go off medicine and contact your doctor, saying

> in some patients it can cause 'rare side affect

> of suppressing your immune system'. Well I had

> hugely painful throat within a week or less of

> being on medicine, even though I know other

> people who have taken medicine and had no sore or

> even irritated throat.

>

> Doctor said not to worry about it, did not take

> any blood tests, after further questioning him,

> he left room and apparently did some reading and

> came back with statement meant to ease my mind,

> " It just has something to do with your white

> blood cells. I wouldn't worry about it. "

>

> LOL, or cry whichever! Insert said doctor will

> carefully monitor your health afterwards for a

> time...wrong. I couldn't get him or any other

> doctor for that matter to even TEST my health.

> This was when all my health problems started,

> 2003. When I mentioned to a few other doctors

> about being on medicine and feeling sick since

> and warning, they just said " I've never heard of

> that " , and that was the end of that, as if that

> MATTERED. I even take a copy of insert with me.

>

> So they were ignoring pharmacy insert on

> medicine. Now, I just don't go to a regular

> doctor unless I have something EASY and OBVIOUS

> and that definately requires a PILL of some sort,

> since I know they are INTO that sort of thing.

>

> --- <eaglestone@...> wrote:

>

> > > Noticing this article from CDC tells us to

> > consult a medical practitioner

>

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 10/30/2006 3:11:06 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,

ssr3351@... writes:

Hi , I think about children and mold exposure ALL THE TIME!!!

and Sue,

According to the following document from the CDC, (the link is disabled),

you are correct to be concerned for the children exposed to moldie buildings,

and what's worse is that the CDC knows it.

The link disabled from the CDC:.

_Population-Specific Recommendations for Protection From Exposure to Mold in

Buildings Flooded After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, by Specific Activity

and Risk Factor_

(http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/report/pdf/2005_moldtable5.pdf) [PDF, 164

Kb] Guidelines and chart showing how people particularly

sensitive to mold can protect themselves.

But one can find it, anyway, if the look REAL hard in other places.

_http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/2006-0027-3001.pdf_

(http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/2006-0027-3001.pdf)

********Check out the chart on the pdf. page 34 of this report***********.

It acknowledges children under 12 should not be exposed to moldie buildings

at all, among many other acknowledgements, such as " hypersensitivity

pneumonitis caused by moldie materials " .

So why is this public service info not easily available for public access

from the CDC?

Nor will you easily find this doc:

_www.otispregnancy.org/pdf/mold.pdf_

(http://www.otispregnancy.org/pdf/mold.pdf) This one is specific to the

pregnancy and mold.

Search the CDC site to see for yourself how this important health

information is so difficult to find.

I am of the opinion that this is intentional, so as not to 'scare' the

public'...or impact lawsuits. I think it was merely meant to be a CYA

regarding

mold induced illnesses after Katrina.

Sharon

[Guest guest]

Re: [] CDC Warning of Mold Exposure During Pregnancy

Yes , " consult your health care

practicioner " now sounds to me like " good luck

sucker " , your sick and you won't get any help

anywhere.

These 'messages' sound good but in reality, they

are just so much verbage. I took some medicine

that said if you develope a sore, painful throat,

go off medicine and contact your doctor, saying

in some patients it can cause 'rare side affect

of suppressing your immune system'. Well I had

hugely painful throat within a week or less of

being on medicine, even though I know other

people who have taken medicine and had no sore or

even irritated throat.

Doctor said not to worry about it, did not take

any blood tests, after further questioning him,

he left room and apparently did some reading and

came back with statement meant to ease my mind,

" It just has something to do with your white

blood cells. I wouldn't worry about it. "

LOL, or cry whichever! Insert said doctor will

carefully monitor your health afterwards for a

time...wrong. I couldn't get him or any other

doctor for that matter to even TEST my health.

This was when all my health problems started,

2003. When I mentioned to a few other doctors

about being on medicine and feeling sick since

and warning, they just said " I've never heard of

that " , and that was the end of that, as if that

MATTERED. I even take a copy of insert with me.

So they were ignoring pharmacy insert on

medicine. Now, I just don't go to a regular

doctor unless I have something EASY and OBVIOUS

and that definately requires a PILL of some sort,

since I know they are INTO that sort of thing.

--- <eaglestone@...> wrote:

> > Noticing this article from CDC tells us to

> consult a medical practitioner

[Guest guest]

Yep,

That's what I am talking about. We had the same kind of experience. Many of

you have heard me say we were sent home with 2 severely sick kids. Puking

150-200 times a month, lethargic, headaches, so forth. With in a 6 month period

my kids were in the hospital 25 times each. Hearing nothing is wrong, really

pisses you off. Then you send me home telling me the kids will die, because you

can't find anything wrong, and they are to little to take this any longer.

Geez, not even a thought was put into the validity of what I was trying to

tell/show them.Then to hear maybe you should see a psychiatrist. Why the heck

should I see a someone. (Dang you can see they are sick you freak) Geez!!! Then

after I learned about mold I asked about blood testing. Again, there is no such

thing. I even took articles to several different doctors, then to the " ER. " I

begged, pleaded, cried, screamed. Still not even a thought was put into mold.

Then after we left the home, with in 1 month they were getting better. So, I

had to figure it all out and pray and pray and pray for the best thing to do and

for help. Because, see I could figure it out. A mother, with just a high

school education, a blue collar worker of sorts. But, I figured it out.

Something is very wrong with this. Then I stumbled onto this group. All of you

here helped me to save my kids, and still help me everyday. We here on this

group are the fortunate ones, fortunate enough to have each other, understand

mold, symptoms, feelings and so forth, willing to help others. I thank god

everyday for KC, Sharon, Carl, and all of you. Thank you soooooooooo much. I

hope one day doctors will acknowlege mold. It would sure be nice to be able to

know what the future holds for all of our little ones after exposure.

Re: [] CDC Warning of Mold Exposure During Pregnancy

Yes , " consult your health care

practicioner " now sounds to me like " good luck

sucker " , your sick and you won't get any help

anywhere.

These 'messages' sound good but in reality, they

are just so much verbage. I took some medicine

that said if you develope a sore, painful throat,

go off medicine and contact your doctor, saying

in some patients it can cause 'rare side affect

of suppressing your immune system'. Well I had

hugely painful throat within a week or less of

being on medicine, even though I know other

people who have taken medicine and had no sore or

even irritated throat.

Doctor said not to worry about it, did not take

any blood tests, after further questioning him,

he left room and apparently did some reading and

came back with statement meant to ease my mind,

" It just has something to do with your white

blood cells. I wouldn't worry about it. "

LOL, or cry whichever! Insert said doctor will

carefully monitor your health afterwards for a

time...wrong. I couldn't get him or any other

doctor for that matter to even TEST my health.

This was when all my health problems started,

2003. When I mentioned to a few other doctors

about being on medicine and feeling sick since

and warning, they just said " I've never heard of

that " , and that was the end of that, as if that

MATTERED. I even take a copy of insert with me.

So they were ignoring pharmacy insert on

medicine. Now, I just don't go to a regular

doctor unless I have something EASY and OBVIOUS

and that definately requires a PILL of some sort,

since I know they are INTO that sort of thing.

--- <eaglestone@...> wrote:

> > Noticing this article from CDC tells us to

> consult a medical practitioner

[Guest guest]

Sue,

You are so right. Schools even new ones have problems. I have been working

with our district. Both schools the kids go to are newer. When we tested there

were trace amounts of air born, and in the duct work. Cleaned duct work, still

traces. But, my daughter was still reactive. After we got it taken care of you

wouldn't believe the results. 5 teachers who experienced sinus infections every

years for the past 3 years, no longer got them, and still have not. (we do

regular testing) We have not had a so called flu outbreak since 2004. 5 kids

inhalers have been sent home, the other inhalers are not used like before. MEAP

testing scores (from what I've been told) were at there highest last year.

(after we did the clean up, and started a new filter regimen) Colds are down in

large numbers. Principals are very pleased along with teachers and parents.

But, don't think they will ever mention or contribute it to a slight mold

presence. I don't give a crap what they contribute it to, just as long as all

the kids are healthier, happier and safer. It was all worth fight then, and the

fight I face every year. But, it is getting easier. I hope one day all schools

will be safe for the kids.

Re: [] CDC Warning of Mold Exposure During Pregnancy

Hi , I think about children and mold exposure ALL THE TIME!!! I also

believe there

is a huge reason to worry about children being exposed including a fetus. If

most Drs. are

like my local Dr., who said I must have a virus, they will most likely say

not to worry.

Since I was a teacher I saw the symptoms, in many children, and believe

that many

will be extremely sick in the future. It seems to me that many of our

schools are in

terrible condition so that probably means many sick children down the road.

Many are

probably sick now and don't even know why!!

Other than a few Drs. we all know and trust I think

the rest are too busy seeing their 45 patients a day & making big bucks!!!

I keep saying it's the year 2006 and our medical community isn't informed.

Did you get a chance to read the National Geographic story about all the

chemicals in our

world? It is frightening and didn't even mention mold toxins!!!!!!

Sue

Goodmorning Everyone,

I have often wondered about the mold in pregnancy myself. But, have also

wondered how would exposure effect a fetus/baby if one would become pregnant

after a large exposure. Noticing this article from CDC tells us to consult a

medical practitioner, I wonder: since most doctors don't even acknowledge

mold,

what would they tell you? If you were pregnant would they tell you mold

doesn't effect the fetus? If something were wrong with the baby after birth,

would

they connect the dots? If you were exposed to large amounts of mold, enough

to make you sick would they warn you about getting pregnant? Is there a

reason you should worry? My daughter is only 11 yrs old, but it often enters

my

mind. She of course has been exposed to huge amounts, and has suffered for

years. She is not the only one. What if these kids do grow up and have babies

and something is wrong w/the baby? These are not questions that I am expecting

to getting answers to, just things that I think about. We all know that no

medical practitioner is going to give us an informed, knowledgeable answer.

Just questions for thought.

[Guest guest]

Sue,

I would also like to put a little brag in here. Really it's a elated, proud

mother brag. My daughter who has struggled since 2001 just to get a " D " in

school, and to remember to bring her homework home, then to have enough energy

to stay up and do the homework. Has this school year turned into an " A " " B "

student. Remember her homework, and is just thriving. Teachers/Principals

cannot believe that having a good indoor environment can make that much of a

difference. So, once again " THANK YOU " everyone here for helping me,

supporting me, and taking time w/me to figure it all out.

Re: [] CDC Warning of Mold Exposure During Pregnancy

Hi , I think about children and mold exposure ALL THE TIME!!! I also

believe there

is a huge reason to worry about children being exposed including a fetus. If

most Drs. are

like my local Dr., who said I must have a virus, they will most likely say

not to worry.

Since I was a teacher I saw the symptoms, in many children, and believe

that many

will be extremely sick in the future. It seems to me that many of our

schools are in

terrible condition so that probably means many sick children down the road.

Many are

probably sick now and don't even know why!!

Other than a few Drs. we all know and trust I think

the rest are too busy seeing their 45 patients a day & making big bucks!!!

I keep saying it's the year 2006 and our medical community isn't informed.

Did you get a chance to read the National Geographic story about all the

chemicals in our

world? It is frightening and didn't even mention mold toxins!!!!!!

Sue

Goodmorning Everyone,

I have often wondered about the mold in pregnancy myself. But, have also

wondered how would exposure effect a fetus/baby if one would become pregnant

after a large exposure. Noticing this article from CDC tells us to consult a

medical practitioner, I wonder: since most doctors don't even acknowledge

mold,

what would they tell you? If you were pregnant would they tell you mold

doesn't effect the fetus? If something were wrong with the baby after birth,

would

they connect the dots? If you were exposed to large amounts of mold, enough

to make you sick would they warn you about getting pregnant? Is there a

reason you should worry? My daughter is only 11 yrs old, but it often enters

my

mind. She of course has been exposed to huge amounts, and has suffered for

years. She is not the only one. What if these kids do grow up and have babies

and something is wrong w/the baby? These are not questions that I am expecting

to getting answers to, just things that I think about. We all know that no

medical practitioner is going to give us an informed, knowledgeable answer.

Just questions for thought.

[Guest guest]

Who,

It is very irritating. You mention you feel you might get irate. I had to

chuckle when you said that. You are a much better person than I if you have not

gotten irate. In the past 2 years I have calmed down since I got a handle on the

problem. (not a cure, just a handle-hehehe) But, believe me I got irate on a

few occasions the first couple years. Sometimes I'd look at the doctors and in

my mind think " geez, it would just feel sooooo great if I could just get up out

of this chair and slap you couple times. " Believe me it wouldn't have helped

but would have felt great. One time I even giggled while having the

thought, and doctor asked me if something was wrong. hehehe I didn't have the

heart to tell him I would just feel so much better if I could slap him.

[] Re: CDC Warning of Mold Exposure During Pregnancy

-I hear that, I'm fairly parinoid to go to a hospital or a doctor

these days and I know enough to know I dont need

steroids,antibiotics,etc. and what I do need would be like pulling

teeth to get. doctors often dont listen to thier patients,no matter

how long you've been going through this or what you know. thier like

robots, set of test, set of drugs, come back in a few weeks for a

refill. what happened to the bedside manners.I am actually so angry

about past misdiagnoses and treatment that Im afraid I might get

irrate with the next doctor that gives me that look, my getting some

medical attention even in the right path around my area is pretty

neal-notta. so basicly I have to find someone with a slight clue

farther away and take things very carefully and slowly and try to

lead him into getting to the root which means

dna,mda,nmda,matoblictic,cns and t-cell testing,spect scans, etc.

and even if I manage to get a infectious disease or a environmental

doctor to do the testing, will he even know what needs done or how to

interpet the results????????????? . I'm really not up to researching

every single aspect of this nightmare but i have had to because its

the only way I can get answers. weather it well actually help me any,

I don't know. I couldn't even get doctors at this hospital or even

some well known clinics that I've been to, to look at past medical

records.-- In , bbw <barb1283@...> wrote:

>

> Yes , " consult your health care

> practicioner " now sounds to me like " good luck

> sucker " , your sick and you won't get any help

> anywhere.

>

> These 'messages' sound good but in reality, they

> are just so much verbage. I took some medicine

> that said if you develope a sore, painful throat,

> go off medicine and contact your doctor, saying

> in some patients it can cause 'rare side affect

> of suppressing your immune system'. Well I had

> hugely painful throat within a week or less of

> being on medicine, even though I know other

> people who have taken medicine and had no sore or

> even irritated throat.

>

> Doctor said not to worry about it, did not take

> any blood tests, after further questioning him,

> he left room and apparently did some reading and

> came back with statement meant to ease my mind,

> " It just has something to do with your white

> blood cells. I wouldn't worry about it. "

>

> LOL, or cry whichever! Insert said doctor will

> carefully monitor your health afterwards for a

> time...wrong. I couldn't get him or any other

> doctor for that matter to even TEST my health.

> This was when all my health problems started,

> 2003. When I mentioned to a few other doctors

> about being on medicine and feeling sick since

> and warning, they just said " I've never heard of

> that " , and that was the end of that, as if that

> MATTERED. I even take a copy of insert with me.

>

> So they were ignoring pharmacy insert on

> medicine. Now, I just don't go to a regular

> doctor unless I have something EASY and OBVIOUS

> and that definately requires a PILL of some sort,

> since I know they are INTO that sort of thing.

>

> --- <eaglestone@...> wrote:

>

> > > Noticing this article from CDC tells us to

> > consult a medical practitioner

>

[Guest guest]

,

Thank you for the reply. The kids were seen last year and given CSM. We had

complications with the medication. I won't get into all of that, but they are

much better now.

My daughter could hold seminars on mold exposure, my son would be able to

assist. She is the one I have to rely on to tell me there is a problem in a

building. But, we were taught by members how she could know when she is being

exposed, what to look for before a major reaction. She has been 100% correct

each time. They have had wonderful support from many here on this group. Who

have taken the time to talk to them, explain things to them, just take time with

them and be kind. Even though we are all here talking on the board wonderful

things happen outside the board too. We have made some wonderful friends, all

of them help me to keep them safe and healthy. Thank you also for sharing your

information. It all helps. We hope your kids will feel better soon, it's

always nice to know we are not alone in this fight.

[] Re: CDC Warning of Mold Exposure During Pregnancy

I have also put alot of thought into this topic, since learning about

my mold problems and realizing that I've had many potential exposures

over the years, including a big hit when I was four months pregnant

with my first child (now 13 1/2). I ended up with high blood

pressure, the baby was induced, was blue when he was born and spent 3

days in ICU. He also had a birth defect (hypospadias) that they

never could explain (they said I must have had a bad illness, very

high temperature and/or taken abx when I was pregnant and none of

those were true).

I don't think any doctor would take you seriously, although you can

find published medical literature highlighting that the toxins do

cross the placenta. Also, taking this one step further, I also

believe the toxins are passed in breastmilk, which contains alot of

fat/cholesterol. My oldest son didn't sleep well and was extremely

fussy until he was just over 2 (in hindsight this coincides when he

stopped nursing).

Since both my boys inherited my mold gene, Dr. Shoemaker ran their

tests and they've got the typical abnormalities (the oldest failed

the VCS, whereas the younger one did not). They've been on the CSM

since the end of June and during the first few weeks of treatment

their navals were oozing (red and gunky). In my mind, this is

evidence that the toxins were concentrated in their navals/umbilical

cord.

I think if you get your daughter treated and make her aware of the

health risks of mold exposure, she'll be much more likely to have a

healthy baby/pregancy (in the future). My youngest son also has a

dreaded genotype (from his father) and he is already aware that

he is an extra sensitive person and needs to take precautions

going forward. His 2 DQ genes are also the two for celiac disease, so

he knows that all of his children will inherit the CD genes, as

well. Although, this is somewhat disheartening to realize what our

children and grandchildren have to deal with, I think it's far better

than suffering for 40+ years like I did.

Be well,

B.

>

> Goodmorning Everyone,

> I have often wondered about the mold in pregnancy myself. But,

have also wondered how would exposure effect a fetus/baby if one

would become pregnant after a large exposure. Noticing this article

from CDC tells us to consult a medical practitioner, I wonder: since

most doctors don't even acknowledge mold, what would they tell you?

If you were pregnant would they tell you mold doesn't effect the

fetus? If something were wrong with the baby after birth, would they

connect the dots? If you were exposed to large amounts of mold,

enough to make you sick would they warn you about getting pregnant?

Is there a reason you should worry? My daughter is only 11 yrs old,

but it often enters my mind. She of course has been exposed to huge

amounts, and has suffered for years. She is not the only one. What

if these kids do grow up and have babies and something is wrong w/the

baby? These are not questions that I am expecting to getting answers

to, just things that I think about. We all know that no medical

practitioner is going to give us an informed, knowledgeable answer.

> Just questions for thought.

>

---- B snipped the remainder to keep the thread short ------

[Guest guest]

, Three cheers to you!!!! I wish you had been at my school to help

out.

I'm so happy for you and your children. The others should be kissing your

feet

for helping them. If they only knew how very sick they could become from the

mold.

Keep up you great work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wish all schools would do the

same.

Sue

Sue,

You are so right. Schools even new ones have problems. I have been working

with our district. Both schools the kids go to are newer. When we tested there

were trace amounts of air born, and in the duct work. Cleaned duct work,

still traces. But, my daughter was still reactive. After we got it taken care

of

you wouldn't believe the results. 5 teachers who experienced sinus

infections every years for the past 3 years, no longer got them, and still have

not.

(we do regular testing) We have not had a so called flu outbreak since 2004. 5

kids inhalers have been sent home, the other inhalers are not used like

before. MEAP testing scores (from what I've been told) were at there highest

last year. (after we did the clean up, and started a new filter regimen) Colds

are down in large numbers. Principals are very pleased along with teachers and

parents. But, don't think they will ever mention or contribute it to a

slight mold presence. I don't give a crap what they contribute it to, just as

long

as all the kids are healthier, happier and safer. It was all worth fight

then, and the fight I face every year. But, it is getting easier. I hope one

day

all schools will be safe for the kids.

[Guest guest]

Again, , you have done a great job. Wish my school would have listened

to me!!!!

Sue,

I would also like to put a little brag in here. Really it's a elated, proud

mother brag. My daughter who has struggled since 2001 just to get a " D " in

school, and to remember to bring her homework home, then to have enough energy

to stay up and do the homework. Has this school year turned into an " A " " B "

student. Remember her homework, and is just thriving. Teachers/Principals

cannot believe that having a good indoor environment can make that much of a

difference. So, once again " THANK YOU " everyone here for helping me, supporting

me, and taking time w/me to figure it all out.

[Guest guest]

, you rock!