Health Conditions Caused by Mold Growth in your Home

by Anita Freeman


Mold is the term given to a specific class of microscopic fungi. While there are a few types of molds that are used for beneficial reasons such as to promote biodegradation, there are also some others that are used to produce antibiotics and even foods and beverages. Some types of mold such as the mold in certain types of cheese are purposefully introduced to enhance the flavor. However, there are also many molds that pose health risks. These health risks are broadly categorized as:

Allergic Reactions

Different people react differently to mold and while some people are completely unaware of its presence, others may get violent allergic reactions. When a person inhales a large number of spores, his/ her immune system responds to it as it would to a threat. This reaction causes a runny nose, prolonged bouts of sneezing and a sudden increase in mucous secretions.

Respiratory Problems

Molds can also cause more serious problems such as lung infection wherein the mold attacks the tissues of the lungs and the respiratory tract. Asthma is a respiratory problem that is often connected to mold exposure and can cause severe breathing problems. In addition to this, an asthmatic patient may have a asthmatic attack if they are exposed to high levels of mold.

Mycotoxins

Molds produce certain toxins known as mycotoxins. Under normal circumstances, these toxins are not really dangerous to humans, but if they are inhaled in large numbers, it can be extremely hazardous and even lethal.

The only protection from mold is to protect your home from these microscopic invaders. Since mold grows mainly in areas that are damp and dark, deprive them of this environment. Air out your house everyday and make sure that there are no leaky pipes or taps in your house. In addition to this any leaks in your roof must be seen to immediately so that the damp cannot seep in. If you notice a damp spot, use a blow dryer to dry the area completely. If mold is already present, wipe the area first with a damp cloth as a dry cloth will cause the spores to be released into the air. After that, soak a piece of cloth in any anti-fungal solution and wipe the area once more. Allow this area to remain undisturbed for a while and then use a dryer to ensure that there is no moisture that may cause the mold to reappear.

Reference:

  1. U.S. EPA. 2002. A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home. EPA 402-K-02-003. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
  2. Indoor Environmental Quality Dampness and Mold in Buildings. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. August 1, 2008.
  3. New York City department of Health, “Guideline on Assessment and Remediation of Fungi in Indoor Environments.” Bureau of Environmental & Occupational Disease Epidemiology, November 2000.

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.


Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
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