What Health Hazards Can Mold Cause?
In the wild, mold, mildew and fungus processes dead plant and animal matter and deposits nutrients into the surrounding soil, but it can bring its share of serious health issues if it grows in your home. Luckily, most types of mold are typically harmless, but a small splotch may later become a big problem. Mold procreates with the use of spores that are freed into the air and causes problems when breathed in by those with allergies or asthma. According to a few studies, there is a link between an early exposure to mold and the development of asthma in some younger children. For a majority of people, household mold, mildew or fungi isn't harmful or even noticeable. However, it can affect other folks who are allergy prone and who have asthma. These allergies are common for a lot of the population and flair up at various times based on the density of mold. If you have a mold allergy, you'll likely sneeze, have a runny nose, cough, red eyes, wheeze, a skin rash or a headache when mold is nearby. More severe allergies may result in harsh reactions like difficulty breathing. Those with asthma must be especially cautious near high concentrations of mold because it can cause asthma attacks. Other sensitive groups at risk include:- Infants and toddlers
- Those 65 and up
- Immune compromised individuals
- Anyone with serious lung disease
Where is Mold Found?
Mildew and mold can grow bigger over time in damp areas. Mold can get into your your house through any opening, such as doors left ajar, open windows, vents and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold doesn't only enter your house through open windows and doors. It can fasten onto your clothes, backpacks, animals and shoes and be moved your house. Mold growth doesn't only affect your family's health-- it can affect your possessions and the structure itself. Mold can grow in moist places, but it can be found in unexpected places. These include:- Paper products
- Ceiling tiles
- Cardboard
- Wood products
- Paints
- Insulation
- Drywall
- Upholstery
How Can I Prevent Mold?
When it comes to stopping mold from getting into your home, there are precautions you can take. We suggest the following:- Build in ventilation for bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchen
- Control the humidity levels
- If it floods, carefully clean and dry your house
- Immediately fix leaky roofs, windows and pipes
- Call Paul Davis mold damage restoration specialists for affordable mold remediation