What are the Health Dangers of Mold?
In caves, forests and other environments, mold, mildew and fungus breaks down rotting plant and animal matter and deposits nutrients into the surrounding soil, but it can cause major health problems when it starts spreading in your home. Fortunately, most kinds of mold is generally harmless, but a little patch may later turn into a large issue. Mold reproduces using spores that are released into the air and causes illness if inhaled by anyone with mold sensitivities or asthma. According to a few studies, there might be a correlation between an early exposure to mold and the development of asthma in some younger children. For many people, garden variety mold, mildew or fungi isn't irritating or even obvious. Unfortunately, it can hurt other folks who are allergy prone and who have asthma. Typically, the density of the mold and sensitivity of someone's allergies will effect their reaction. Sneezing, coughing, runny nose, red eyes, wheezing, headaches and other cold-like symptoms are commonly associated with mold and mildew allergies, making it difficult to pinpoint accurately. More severe allergies may result in harsh reactions like short breath. Those with asthma must be particularly careful near high concentrations of mold because it can cause asthma attacks. Additional groups at risk include:- Babies and children
- Those 65 and up
- Immune sensitive individuals
- Anyone with chronic lung disease
Mold in the House
Commonly found in damp areas, mold and mildew does build up over time. A house can get a mold infestation through open doorways, windows, vents and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold doesn't only enter a house through windows and doors-- it can also fasten onto your clothes, purses, animals and shoes and be transported indoors. Mold growth will affect your family's physical well-being, as well as your possessions and the structure itself. Mold usually grows in moist places, but it can be found in places you might not expect. These include:- Paper products
- Ceiling tiles
- Cardboard
- Wood products
- Paints
- Insulation
- Drywall
- Upholstery
Mold Prevention
When it comes to stopping mold from getting into your home, there are precautions you can take. We suggest doing the following:- Build in ventilation for bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchen
- Manage the humidity levels in your house
- In the case of a flood, clean and dry your house meticulously
- Repair leaky roofs, windows and pipes immediately
- Call your local mold damage restoration contractors for affordable mold remediation