Everyone is familiar with that fluffy dingy trim on the shower curtain, but are you aware of the more hidden places that mold can grow and the effects it can have on your health? Even if you practice good hygiene and clean often, mold can catch you off-guard and cause a heap of problems. Here are the ways mold can develop in your home and the harm it can cause once it spreads.
What Types of Mold Exist?
Toxigenic molds are just as terrible as their name sounds—they are absolutely toxic and are linked to a weakened immune system and cancer. Pathogenic molds can cause infection and are particularly dangerous to those who suffer from immunosuppression. Bacteria-caused pneumonia is often a result of contact with this type of mold. Though less harmful than those mentioned earlier, allergenic molds can be a nightmare for someone with asthma or someone with an allergy.
It’s more likely that children will be allergic to mold, but anyone is susceptible to the adverse effects of it. It can spread quickly, so you’ll need to hire someone for mold removal if you notice its growth in your home. It can be a matter of serious hospital treatment in some cases of extremely toxic mold strains.
Where in Your Home Can Mold Occur?
Mold will typically flourish in moist areas with little ventilation. Some areas that this is common but often overlooked are attics, basements, garages, under sinks, or anywhere with poorly sealed pipes, bathtubs, or anywhere else that doesn’t get much light where water is present.
What Are Its Effects on Health?
If you find mold growing in your home, you could have already been subject to its effects without realizing it yet. It can be highly dangerous if inhaled for long periods of time, so it is crucial to remove it quickly and effectively. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms below, then contact a doctor immediately and hire a specialist to search your home for the source.
Symptoms of Exposure
If you have been exposed to mold, then you may experience the following symptoms:
Sore throat
Coughing
Wheezing
Stuffy nose
Itchy eyes
Skin rash
Bear in mind that some people might not notice any symptoms at all, and others who are allergic may experience the more severe side of these symptoms. Those living with asthma might develop more frequent asthma attacks. People with chronic respiratory disease will also have their breathing troubles heightened above the typical difficulties.
Long Term Health Effects
If you or your family are exposed to mold for an extended amount of time, then there’s a possibility that you might have some healing to do afterward. Reduced lung function and asthma are just two examples of serious health problems caused by long term exposure. Studies have also shown that those impacted by mold in their home are more likely to suffer from depression, which can, in turn, trigger more asthma attacks.
The list of health defects caused by mold goes on, but the reason for the mold is almost always the same—dark, moist places not getting enough air ventilation. Try your best to protect your family by paying a visit to each nook and cranny in your home to ensure there are no unwanted guests.