Roughly 21.8 million people in the U.S. suffer from asthma, and approximately 4.6 million of these cases were linked to dampness and mold exposure in the home. Mold, and especially toxic mold, have become a popular topic among health care professionals in recent years as we continue to understand the serious health effects.
What is toxic mold? Also known as black mold, this type of fungus is especially harmful to humans. Molds reproduce asexually and, as a result, reproduce quite often and in large numbers. Black mold grows when there is particularly awful indoor air quality.
Where does mold grow? Mold can enter a home by various means: doorways, windows, vents, heating and air conditioning systems, etc. Generally, these little spores can withstand temperatures between 40 degrees F and 100 degrees F and love to hang out around places with plenty of moisture (leaky roofs, windows, pipes, places of recent flooding).
How does it spread? Molds spread via spores that travel on air currents in the house and can also be transported on materials or can even hitch a ride on someone’s hand. Toxic mold spores in particular can survive long periods of time in dry conditions, which makes it especially difficult to get rid of.
Side effects of black mold: Black mold generally has the same side effects as other species of mold. It can cause a variety of health problems including itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing, allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and lung damage. Roughly 10 to 20% of the world’s population is allergic to mold.
Black mold health risks: Toxic mold can cause serious symptoms if you do not call a mold removal expert as soon as possible. Health issues include mental impairment, breathing issues, organ damage, and even death. Be sure to look for these symptoms:
- Respiratory symptoms
- Circulatory problems
- Mental and neurological symptoms
- Vision impairment
- Skin issues
- Lethargy or discomfort
- Immune system problems
Is black mold common? This type of mold is generally seen when there is little to no air circulation in a room and no steps are taken to initially remove the spores. Toxic mold removal can be somewhat difficult if it is found to be rampant within your home’s air conditioning ducts or within the pipes or walls.
How do you remove mold from buildings? Removing any type of mold from homes, schools, and offices should always involve a professional mold removal company. They will perform indoor air quality tests and ensure that every last spore has been accounted for and destroyed. The price may be steep depending on how much mold has accumulated, but its better to pay a price in cash than with your own personal health.
More research here: www.moldgone.net
