Can Black Mold Cause High Blood Pressure

Most people know that mold is bad for your health, but can black mold cause high blood pressure? It’s a surprising question, but one that more people are asking, especially as awareness grows around the long-term health effects of indoor air quality. If you’ve been exposed to mold and also deal with blood pressure issues, it’s natural to wonder if the two could be connected.

Does Mold Cause High Blood Pressure?

There’s no direct, definitive proof that black mold causes high blood pressure in the same way that stress, environment or genetics might. But the answer isn’t a flat-out no either. Mold exposure can lead to a cascade of physical responses in the body, especially in people with allergies, asthma, or other sensitivities. When your body is constantly fighting off an irritant, it’s under stress. And chronic stress, as we know, can push blood pressure up over time.

Black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, produces mycotoxins that can irritate the lungs, sinuses, and immune system. Breathing in those spores every day like in a poorly ventilated area, can cause symptoms like coughing, headaches, fatigue, and even trouble concentrating. And when your body is constantly inflamed or under respiratory distress, your cardiovascular system can start to feel the strain too.

Inflammation is where things start to get more connected. Chronic inflammation is a known contributor to many long-term health conditions, including heart disease and hypertension. While black mold may not be directly raising blood pressure, the inflammation and stress it triggers can create the conditions where high blood pressure becomes more likely.

So, can mold make your blood pressure go up? It’s not out of the question. Especially if you’re already at risk or dealing with high blood pressure, mold exposure could be one more factor pushing things in the wrong direction. In some people, it might show up as occasional spikes. In others, it could contribute to long-term issues that worsen over time.

Other Health Concerns Linked to Mold

Beyond blood pressure, mold exposure has been linked to a number of respiratory and immune problems. These include sinus infections, wheezing, skin irritation, watery eyes, and in some cases, cognitive issues like brain fog. People with compromised immune systems or existing lung conditions tend to experience more intense symptoms.

The tricky thing is that mold exposure often goes unnoticed especially if it’s hiding behind walls or under flooring. Some people live with symptoms for years without realizing the root cause is environmental.

What to Do?

If you suspect you’ve been exposed to mold and you’ve also noticed changes in your blood pressure, energy levels, or breathing, it’s worth talking to your doctor. It’s also a good idea to have your home thoroughly inspected, especially if it’s older, has experienced flooding, or has poor ventilation. 

Air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and regular cleaning can help, but if there’s visible mold, it needs to be professionally removed. Addressing the root cause not only helps your environment but could support your overall health and well-being.