If you reside in a flood-prone place, you have probably experienced calling for an emergency restoration to prevent further water damage. Otherwise, you may be at risk of developing a respiratory infection from mold exposure. While some molds are harmless, others can cause health problems, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
What Is Mold?
Mold is a fungi type that can grow both indoors and outdoors. Mold grows best in humid environments, such as bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. They multiply by releasing spores into the air. When these spores land on a wet or moist surface, they can start to grow.
Mold comes in different colors, including black, green, white, and brown. Some molds can also be toxic, and black mold is one of them. They can produce mycotoxins, poisonous substances that cause various health problems, including respiratory infections.
Often, mold arises after flooding. If your house has been flooded, it’s essential to clean and dry all wet materials within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth. If the disaster is severe, consider contacting a property damage company.
Ensure to find one within your community certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), such as PuroClean.
Signs of Mold in Your Home
There are a few signs that mold might be growing in your home, such as:
- Water stains on the ceilings, walls, or floors
- A musty or moldy smell
- Visible mold growth
- Peeling paint
- Excessive condensation
Take action right away if you observe any of these signs. The longer you wait, the more time mold has to grow and spread.
Health Risks Associated with Mold
Mold can cause a variety of health problems, including:
- Allergic reactions
- Asthma attacks
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Wheezing
- Skin rash
- You can have a higher risk of developing more severe health problems from mold exposure if you have asthma or allergies.
What Are the Symptoms of a Respiratory Infection Caused by Mold?
The symptoms of a respiratory infection caused by mold depend on the person’s sensitivity to mold and the present mold type. However, common symptoms include:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Watery or itchy eyes
How to Prevent Mold
The best mold prevention is to keep your home clean and dry. Consider the following tips:
- Keep your home clean and dry. Molds thrive in damp and humid conditions. Keep your home clean and dry to prevent them from growing. Regularly cleaning your home with a damp cloth or mop will help remove any mold spores that may be present.
- Use a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers help eliminate excess moisture from the air, preventing molds from growing.
- Fix any leaks. Leaks in your roof, walls, or plumbing can create damp conditions that molds need to grow. Make sure to fix any leaks as soon as possible.
- Ventilate your home. Good ventilation helps to remove humid air from your home and prevents mold growth. Opening doors and windows, using exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom, and running a window air conditioner with the vent open are good ways to ventilate your home.
- Keep mold out of your home. If you live in a mold-prone area, take steps to prevent it from coming into your home. For example, you can use doormats and exhaust fans when showering and keep the humidity in your home below 60%.
As a Summary
Mold can cause respiratory infection, especially in people with weakened immune systems. They thrive in humid environments and can multiply by releasing spores into the air. Remember, some molds are toxic and can produce mycotoxins, which are poisonous substances that can cause various health problems.
If you see any mold signs in your home, it’s vital to take action right away. Call professionals if the problem is severe. On top of these, keep your home clean and dry, use a dehumidifier, and ventilate your home to prevent mold growth.