What Is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that grows on plants and fibers and is most often associated with damp, musty locations such as bathrooms, basements and attics. Mold travels through the air as tiny spores which like to make their home in wet areas, where they will breed. If mold is spotted, it’s best to nip it in the bud immediately lest it spread to other areas. It’s also a good indication of a moisture problem, which should be dealt with as soon as possible.
In addition to its unsightly appearance, mold can present a hazard to one’s health. It’s an allergen and an irritant. Someone who suffers from household allergies or asthma will no doubt have trouble breathing in homes with mold infestations. Eyes, ears, noses and throats can become irritated as well.
Health Issues Associated With Mold
Molds produce negative health effects through inflammation, allergy or infection. Allergic reactions, including fever, are common after mold exposure. Symptoms of those exposed to toxic molds which issue mycotoxins both individually or in combination are:
- Immune system suppression
- Respiratory problems including asthma and infections
- Eye irritation with burning, watery or reddened eyes
- Cough – dry and hacking
- Nose or throat irritation or both
- Skin rashes or irritation
- Memory impairment
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Body aches and pain (Chronic Fatigue)
- Food Intolerances and allergies
- Headaches
- Mood swings
- Nasal and sinus congestion
What To Do If You Suspect Mold Growth
If you suspect that mold is present in your home it is a good idea to call in a company that specializes in mold testing. They will establish the location, cause and extent of mold presence. Then they will identify the sources of moisture.
From here onwards you can deal with the issue yourself or hire professional to come in and take care of the problem for you. It is then necessary to eliminate the moisture. Clean and dry the moldy areas while containing the affected areas. Bag and dispose of all material that may have moldy residues. For areas of high contamination, or in excess of 10 sq. ft., professional services are recommended. Air ducts may be contaminated.
If removing mold yourself, wear gloves and mask protection. To decontaminate non-porous materials, use non-ammonia soap or detergent in hot water and scrub the entire area. Rinse cleaned items in water and dry thoroughly. Using bleach straight from the bottle is less effective than a diluted solution of 10% household bleach. Be sure there is adequate ventilation. Use a high quality dust mask and place contaminated materials in bags for disposal.
Once mold starts to grow in insulation or wallboard, the only way to deal with the problem is by removal or replacement. In areas where flooding has occurred, prompt cleaning of walls and other flood-damaged items with the diluted 10% chlorine bleach is necessary as a first step to prevent mold growth. Never mix bleach with ammonia as toxic fumes result.