The Many Dangers of Having Mold Growth at Home

Household mold is more than just an eyesore, whether it appears as slimy dark spots on the bathroom curtain, soft pale patches on your basement floor, or a slippery orange film on your kitchen drain.

In homes and buildings, mold is a very prevalent problem. Mold will develop in places with a lot of dampness, such as around pipes, windows, and roof leaks, as well as in recently flooded areas. Mold thrives on cardboard, ceiling tiles, paper, and wood goods. Dust, wallpaper, paints, insulation, carpet, drywall, cloth, and upholstery are some materials where mold can grow.

Find out how mold growth affects your health, what kinds of mold grow indoors, and how you can stop mold growth.

The Effects Of Mold on Your Health

Some people can experience irritation from mold, while others cannot. Those who feel irritation may experience varying symptoms, either minor or severe symptoms. Some minor symptoms include wheezing, runny nose, or itchy eyes or skin.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some people may experience more severe reactions, such as asthma or mold allergies. Workers exposed to a lot of mold at work, like farmers who handle moldy hay, may experience severe reactions. Fever and breathing difficulties are examples of severe reactions.

Here are some of the common issues that arise from mold problems.

Allergies and Asthma

Allergies are one of the most frequent ways mold can harm your health. Identifying all varieties of molds, spores, and fungal pieces may be challenging or impossible. However, there is compelling evidence that mold spores can contribute to several symptoms, including coughing, watery eyes, and sneezing. You can also encounter respiratory issues and skin rashes if you are allergic to mold.

Additionally, according to some specialists, extreme cases of mold allergies can result in anaphylaxis, a disease that threatens life. If your respiratory allergic symptoms, asthma symptoms, or mold allergy symptoms worsen, you should consult a doctor.

Infections

Most people commonly inhale mold spores without any negative health effects. However, mold can result in adverse health effects, especially in those with compromised immune systems. Bronchitis and respiratory infections appear more likely by spending time in wet environments with extensive mold growth.

Numerous respiratory illnesses, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, can be brought on by inhaling mold spores. Infections of the skin may also result from it. Awareness of the dangers of mold infection and taking precautions to avoid it are crucial if you already have a compromised immune system.

Signs of Mold Exposure

For most people, mold exposure is not dangerous. However, if you have a medical condition that puts you at an increased risk of problems and you think you may suffer from a mold-related infection, you must let your doctor know immediately.

  • Eye irritation
  • Runny nose and congestion
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Skin rash
  • Sore throat
  • Lung irritation
  • Headache
  • Wheezing

Common Types of Mold

The mold can develop in one location. With testing, it’s possible to distinguish between different mold types. You don’t need to be familiar with its species to eliminate it. Also, it is easy to know if you have it growing in the house because you can usually smell mold.

Cladosporium

This mold usually manifests in black, green, or brown. Both cool and warm environments support the growth of Cladosporium. The most typical places to find it are heating and cooling ducts, wood, carpets, or fabrics.

Penicillium

Blue, yellow, or green best describe this fuzzy mold. Water damage is frequently discovered in insulation, basements, and under carpets, particularly when there has been water damage.

Aspergillus

Aspergillus has a powdery appearance and is white, green, or gray with black dots. This particular mold doesn’t require a lot of ventilation. It thrives on dry food items and in fabrics, basements, attics, and walls.

Treatment Options & How to Prevent Mold Growth

Inform a doctor if you think you are experiencing symptoms related to mold exposure. It can be challenging to distinguish between mold, another illness, or an allergy as the source of your symptoms. Your doctor might suggest skin or blood tests to determine whether you have a mold allergy.

The following may be used as treatments and preventative measures for mold allergies.

  • Medications, such as antihistamines and nasal corticosteroid sprays,
  • Allergy shots may be particularly necessary if you suffer from severe symptoms throughout the year.
  • Home humidity control.

Although it is impossible to eradicate all mold and spores from your home completely, the easiest mold remediation strategy is to reduce moisture levels since mold spores cannot grow without moisture. If mold is already forming in your home, it’s critical to remove the mold and address the moisture issue.

Get Rid Of Mold With The Help Of Professionals

Duraclean is a professional cleaning company serving Myrtle Beach, SC. We have experience cleaning homes with indoor mold growth and a team dedicated to delivering amazing results. If you want to ensure that your house is mold-free, you should employ a professional mold-cleaning service. Enjoy a clean, sanitary home that is safe for you, your family, and your guests.

For a healthy home, Duraclean is prepared to clean and restore your house environment. We understand the value of mold-free homes in the Myrtle Beach, SC area. Contact us today at (843) 604-3280 for a free consultation.