Four Tell Tale Signs You May Have Mould Toxicity

Key takeaway:

Some symptoms are so specific they can reveal mould toxicity even when others are missed.

What Are the Four Tell Tale Signs of Mould Toxicity?

While mould illness can trigger a wide range of symptoms, four stand out as especially distinctive indicators of mould toxicity:

• “Ice pick” or “lightning bolt” pain
• Frequent static shocks
• Internal tremor or vibration
• Fibromyalgia, ME, or chronic fatigue-like symptoms

If you notice any of these, it’s time to explore whether mould exposure could be the missing link.

1. What Is “Ice Pick” or “Lightning Bolt” Pain in Mould Toxicity?

These are distinctive, sudden, stabbing pains that arise from mycotoxin illness.

“Ice pick” or “lightning bolt” pains are sharp, electric-like stabbing or shooting sensations that come on suddenly. People with mould illness describe them as brief but intense, sometimes paired with numbness, tingling, or static-like zaps.  They may stem from nerve inflammation or neurological disruption caused by mycotoxins. Their distinctive, unpredictable nature makes them a hallmark symptom of mould toxicity.

2. Why Do People with Mould Illness Experience More Static Shocks?

Frequent static shocks may result from hormonal or neurological imbalances caused by mycotoxins.

People with mould toxicity often report being “shock magnets”—getting zapped by doorknobs or electronics far more often than other people.  While the exact cause isn’t proven, experts believe it may be due to mycotoxins affecting hormone balance and neurological function. If you’re constantly discharging static electricity, it could be a subtle sign of mould’s influence.

3. What Is the Internal Tremor or Vibration in Mould Toxicity?

A buzzing or vibrating sensation inside the body is a unique mould-related symptom.

An internal tremor or vibration feels like the body is humming or buzzing on the inside—similar to a caffeine rush or like a mild internal earthquake. There’s no visible shaking on the outside, yet the sensation can be relentless and unsettling.  This symptom often points to nervous system dysregulation triggered by mould exposure. Many people describe it as one of the most distinctive and uncomfortable effects of mould toxicity.

4. How Is Mould Toxicity Linked to Fibromyalgia, ME, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

A key piece of research suggests mould illness may be a factor in fibromyalgia.

A 2013 study published in Toxins found that 92% of fibromyalgia patients tested positive for at least one type of mycotoxin (Brewer JH et al., 2013*). Because mould illness produces similar symptoms—fatigue, pain, unrefreshing sleep, and brain fog—it raises an important question – could mould toxicity be a hidden cause for some fibromyalgia or ME/CFS cases?  If you’ve been diagnosed with any of these conditions, it’s worth completing our Mould Illness Questionnaire to assess for mould illness.

What Should You Do If You Recognise These Symptoms?

Simple tests can clarify whether mould toxins are affecting you.

If you recognise any of the symptoms above, take our Mould Illness Questionnaire to help assess whether mould may be contributing to your health issues.  For those whose questionnaire results suggest a higher likelihood of mould illness, a urinary mycotoxin test can provide more definitive insights. You can learn more about it testing here OR order a test here.

Taking the Next Step

Experiencing symptoms of mould illness can be concerning, but support is available.

Where to Get More Help

It’s completely understandable to feel worried if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above. Mould illness is complex, but there are practical steps you can take to identify exposure, support your body, and begin recovery.

If you want to learn more, you can download our free ebook Is Mould Making You Unwell?, or contact us directly and we’ll help you get the help you need.

*Brewer JH, Thrasher JD, Straus DC, Madison RA, Hooper DC. Detection of Mycotoxins in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Toxins. 2013;5(4):605‑617.