Houston Hormones: Is Mold Crashing Summer Youth?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 9, 2026

The musty smell hit me like a wall the moment I walked into my friend Sarah’s Houston Heights bungalow. She’d been complaining of fatigue, brain fog, and irregular periods for months, and doctors were stumped. Her teenage daughter, Emily, was experiencing similar issues, plus acne that wouldn’t quit. Could the culprit be lurking in the very air they breathed?

Mold. It’s more than just an unsightly nuisance; in Houston, it’s a pervasive health threat, especially after the relentless humidity and occasional flooding. And its effects can mimic hormonal imbalances, throwing lives into disarray, particularly for young women like Sarah and Emily.

This article is your guide to navigating the murky waters of mold exposure in Houston. We’ll uncover the connection between mold and hormonal havoc, provide actionable steps for remediation, and connect you with local resources to reclaim your health.

Mold’s Sneaky Hormonal Mimicry

Mycotoxins, the toxic substances produced by mold, are endocrine disruptors. They interfere with the body’s hormone system, mimicking or blocking natural hormones. This can lead to a cascade of problems, especially for women.

• Estrogen Dominance: Some mycotoxins act like estrogen, leading to estrogen dominance. Symptoms include irregular periods, PMS, weight gain, fibroids, and even increased risk of certain cancers.
• Thyroid Disruption: Mold can interfere with thyroid hormone production and conversion, leading to fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and depression.
• Adrenal Fatigue: Chronic mold exposure puts the body in a constant state of stress, leading to adrenal fatigue. Symptoms include fatigue, brain fog, low blood pressure, and salt cravings.

For teenagers like Emily, hormonal imbalances can manifest as severe acne, irregular periods, mood swings, and developmental issues. It’s crucial to consider mold exposure as a potential underlying cause, especially in a humid environment like Houston.

Houston-Specific Mold Havens

Houston’s climate and housing stock create the perfect breeding ground for mold. Think post-hurricane water damage, older homes with poor ventilation, and the constant humidity.

• Post-Harvey Homes: Many homes in areas like Meyerland and Kingwood still harbor hidden mold from Hurricane Harvey. Even if the visible damage was repaired, mold can thrive behind walls and under floors.
• Older Heights Bungalows: The charming bungalows in the Heights, while full of character, often have poor ventilation and leaky roofs, making them susceptible to mold growth.
• Condos Near the Galleria: Condensation from air conditioning in high-rise condos near the Galleria can create moisture problems and lead to mold growth, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.

Identifying the Enemy: Mold Testing in Houston

Don’t rely solely on visual inspections. Mold can be hidden.

• ERMI Testing: The Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) test is a DNA-based test that identifies the types and quantities of mold present in a home. It’s a good starting point for understanding the overall mold burden.
• Air Sampling: Air sampling tests measure the concentration of mold spores in the air. This can help determine if the mold is actively releasing spores and posing a health risk.
• Surface Swab Testing: Surface swab tests are used to identify mold on specific surfaces, such as walls, floors, or furniture.

Pro Tip: Hire a certified mold inspector who is independent of remediation companies. This ensures an unbiased assessment. Look for certifications from organizations like the American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC).

Houston Mold Remediation: A DIY Approach (with Caution)

For small areas (less than 10 square feet), you can attempt DIY mold remediation. However, for larger infestations, professional help is essential.

Safety First: Always wear protective gear, including a respirator, gloves, and eye protection.

DIY Steps:

1. Containment: Seal off the affected area with plastic sheeting and tape.
2. Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and using a fan to exhaust air outside.
3. Cleaning: Use a mold-killing solution, such as a mixture of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or a commercial mold cleaner.
4. Drying: Thoroughly dry the cleaned area with fans and dehumidifiers.
5. Prevention: Address the source of the moisture problem to prevent future mold growth.

Pitfalls to Avoid:

• Bleach on Porous Surfaces: Bleach is not effective on porous surfaces like drywall or wood. It only kills surface mold and doesn’t penetrate to the roots.
• Ignoring the Source: Simply cleaning the mold without addressing the underlying moisture problem is a temporary fix. The mold will return.
• Cross-Contamination: Spreading mold spores to other areas of the home during the cleaning process.

Detoxification Strategies for Houstonians

Even after mold remediation, mycotoxins can linger in the body. Detoxification is crucial for restoring hormonal balance and overall health.

• Binders: Binders like activated charcoal, bentonite clay, and cholestyramine help to bind to mycotoxins in the gut and eliminate them from the body.
• Sweating: Sweating through exercise or sauna therapy helps to eliminate toxins through the skin.
• Liver Support: Support liver function with supplements like milk thistle and NAC (N-acetyl cysteine).
• Diet: Follow a clean, anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugar, and alcohol.

Houston-Specific Tip: Consider infrared saunas, which are more effective at detoxifying than traditional saunas, especially in Houston’s already humid climate.

Local Resources: Houston Doctors and Mold Testing

Finding the right healthcare professionals is essential.

• Environmental Medicine Doctors: Seek out doctors specializing in environmental medicine. They are trained to diagnose and treat mold-related illnesses. Some options include practitioners at the Functional Medicine Research Institute in The Woodlands.
• Mold Testing Companies: Research reputable mold testing companies in the Houston area. Check online reviews and ask for referrals. SanAir Technologies Laboratory is a well-regarded option.

Sarah and Emily’s Story: A Happy Ending

After discovering significant mold growth in their attic, Sarah and Emily hired a professional remediation company. They also started a detoxification protocol under the guidance of an environmental medicine doctor. Within a few months, Sarah’s periods became regular, her brain fog lifted, and Emily’s acne cleared up. They finally understood the root cause of their health problems and were able to take control of their well-being.

Mold exposure is a serious issue in Houston, but it’s not insurmountable. By understanding the connection between mold and hormonal imbalances, taking proactive steps for remediation and detoxification, and seeking out local resources, you can reclaim your health and create a healthier home environment. Don’t let mold steal your vitality.