Mold is More Than a Nuisance; It’s Harmful to Your Health
Is mold harmful to your health? The short answer is yes. Mold growth is harmful to your health because it can release virulent spores into the air. When inhaled, it can potentially cause allergic reactions or other health problems. Even more concerningly, some types of mold produce mycotoxins – toxic chemicals that can also be released into the air or onto surfaces.
When people are exposed to mold or mycotoxins, they may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Allergic reactions, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash
- Respiratory problems, such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and wheezing
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat
- Digestive issues, such as nausea and diarrhea
Exposure to mold can be particularly harmful for people with weakened immune systems and those with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions.
If you suspect harmful mold growing in your home or commercial property, it’s critical to take immediate action to protect your health and prevent the mold from spreading.
Here are some steps you can take:
- Identify the source of the mold. Look for any signs of mold growth, such as discoloration on walls and ceilings or a musty smell. Check areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
- Assess the extent of the mold problem. If you see mold growing on surfaces, there is likely more mold growing on surfaces that are not visible. Hiring a professional mold inspector to assess the extent of the mold problem is always advisable.
- Protect yourself. Wear protective clothing, such as gloves and a respirator, to avoid inhaling spores or mycotoxins when cleaning up mold.
- Remove the mold. Depending on the extent of the mold problem, you may be able to remove the mold yourself using a solution of bleach and water or a commercial mold cleaner. For larger or more severe mold problems, it is recommended that you hire a professional mold remediation company. When in doubt, we recommend reaching out to a professional regardless of the size of the mold growth.
- Address the underlying cause. Mold growth often indicates moisture problems, such as plumbing leaks or high humidity. To prevent mold from returning, it’s imperative to address the underlying cause.
- Prevent future mold growth. Keep your home or commercial property dry and well-ventilated to prevent mold growth. Clean up any spills or leaks promptly, and use a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity.
Prompt action to protect your health and prevent mold from spreading is essential to a clean, healthy environment. If you have any concerns about mold in your home or commercial property, contact a professional mold inspector or mold remediation company for help.
Are you located in the greater Orlando, Florida, area? Our expert mold specialists are ready to tackle your mold problem! Contact us today!