Health Risks You Need to Know About Mold Damage, Exposure, and Necessary Removal Tactics
Mold is an organic substance found naturally all around us. It is a type of fungus that reproduces by releasing tiny spores that travel through the air throughout the environment. Mold can only grow, however, if it is given the right conditions, such as damp surfaces and moisture. Mold thrives in areas that provide warm, moist conditions, which is why it is commonly found in places like bathrooms, basements, crawl spaces, and kitchens.
Mold is not only something that is unsightly and, well, gross, it’s also a substance that can have negative effects on your health. If you notice mold in your home or in its surrounding areas, professional mold removal is the only way to avoid these potential adverse health risks.
Allergic Reaction
One of the most common adverse health risks of mold exposure is allergies. Exposure to mold can lead to sneezing, a runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, skin rashes and hives, and sinus inflammation and pressure. Over time, allergic reactions to mold can exacerbate and become more than just problematic.
Asthma and Lung Disease
Mold typically affects those with allergies or compromised immune systems more seriously. Long-term exposure can lead to an increase in asthma attacks, development of asthma in young children, hypersensitivity pneumonitis (an immune-related lung inflammation), and chronic bronchitis-like symptoms.
Neurological and Cognitive Symptoms
People who are exposed to mold can develop migraine headaches and fatigue or chronic exhaustion. They can also experience brain fog and difficulty concentrating. Over time, memory issues are commonly a problem and are often associated with mood changes, anxiety, and irritability.
Immune System Effects
Mold can affect anyone’s immune system, but it is especially dangerous to compromised and vulnerable populations. Mold can increase susceptibility to infections. It can also exacerbate someone’s autoimmune or inflammatory response, leading to chronic inflammation. Immune system effects are more severe in immunocompromised individuals who already suffer from an overactive immune system response.
Skin and Eye Conditions
Mold is caustic to the skin and eyes, causing reactions such as skin irritation marked by irritation and burning. It can also lead to dermatitis and red, watery, and swollen eyes.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
When someone has prolonged exposure to mold, it can lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. Although these gastrointestinal symptoms are more commonly linked to ingestion or high toxin exposure, it is something to be concerned about, especially in vulnerable populations.
Toxic Effects (Mycotoxin-Related)
When exposure to mold is in high degrees or occurs over prolonged periods of time, it can lead to chronic inflammation and hormonal disruption. More serious adverse health risks are potential liver or kidney stress and damage.
High-Risk Populations
Mold exposure can be adverse to anyone, but those who are at the highest risk are more vulnerable populations, such as infants and children, older adults, pregnant women, people with asthma, allergies, and COPD, and individuals with an already weakened immune system.
What to Do if You Find Mold
Mold spores can be microscopic, which is another reason why exposure can be dangerous. When it becomes airborne, not only is it microscopic and invisible to the naked eye, but it is also difficult to contain. Although there are a host of over-the-counter mold remedies, they are often not enough to eliminate mold spores and keep your family’s environment safe. Often, the only sure way to remove mold is by hiring a professional mold removal company. If you see mold, these are the best steps to take.
Immediate Action
Mold multiplies quickly, and mold spores can become airborne if not addressed. The best way to eliminate mold is to prevent it from growing, to begin with. The critical first step is address the moisture problem leading to mold growth. Without moisture and water, mold can’t grow, so removing the conditions that lead to mold growth is the best way to tackle it early and prevent exposure.
Clean it Properly
Mold isn’t just about what you see on the surface; growth is also often lurking where you can’t see. If you notice mold, rub it off immediately with detergent and water. Most importantly, dry the area completely to prevent it from growing again.
Dry Water-Damaged Areas Within 24-48 Hours
When you have water damage, time is of the essence! Mold can multiply quickly, within 24-48 hours of water saturation. If you have a leak, spill, or standing water, address it immediately. The best way to ensure you eliminate growth and contain it is to hire a professional mold removal company to reduce your health risks.
Discard Heavily Moldy Porous Material
Many materials can’t be cleaned properly and safely and must be removed. Things like ceiling tiles, carpeting, and drywall are porous and a breeding ground for mold growth. If water can penetrate a material, then it is best and safest to remove it entirely rather than attempting to clean it and risking mold growth and exposure.
Can You Handle Mold Alone?
The question isn’t really if you CAN handle mold; it’s if you SHOULD. Mold is not only something that can lead to costly repairs; it can also adversely affect your health. In most instances, if mold covers less than ten square feet (roughly a three-foot by three-foot patch), homeowners can remove it safely. If, however, there’s extensive water damage, large mold growth, valuable items involved, or you are unsure about how to successfully remove it, then it is always best to hire a professional who is certified to remove mold. That is the only way to ensure the safety of your home’s valuables, and the most valuable thing in your home, your family.
Mistakes to Avoid
Whenever you see mold, it is important that you don’t attempt to paint or caulk over it. It must be cleaned and thoroughly dried before you can begin repairs. Also, never mix ammonia or other cleaners together. The two combined can create toxic fumes that are hazardous and potentially life-threatening. Lastly, remember that killing mold isn’t enough. Mold must be removed completely because even dead mold can trigger an allergic reaction.
Most people are disgusted by mold because it is unsightly and gross, but removing mold is about more than aesthetics. If you see mold growth, don’t ignore it, or a small mold issue can quickly become a large, costly, and dangerous one. The best course to deal with mold is to call a professional company like ours to ensure it is removed quickly, safely, and completely. Contact us today to evaluate your mold issue.
