CAN HOME MOLD MAKE ME SICK?

 

Mold is a type of fungus consisting of microorganisms and is found almost everywhere. It can be green, purple, orange, white, or black, and we are exposed to it every day. Although small amounts of spores may be harmless, inhaling it can make allergic people and asthma sufferers sick.

When the spores on mold land in a wet place, they start to grow. During its growth, other spores may be released into the air, which can be inhaled by people. Mold can grow on your walls, floors, furniture, carpet, and even appliances. We asked the owners of Elite Moisture Solutions (a well-known mold removal company in Raleigh North Carolina) about common types of mold that might make people sick within their homes, and whether or not they can get sick from them, and here’s what they said:

Common types of mold in those areas

Several types of mold are found in many homes, whether in small amounts or in greater amounts due to conditions conducive to mold growth. However, something that all types of molds need are moisture, which is why they are most likely seen in wet areas such as laundry room, basement, kitchen, bathroom, and under the home within the crawlspace. These types include chaetomium, penicillium, aspergillus, and stachybotrys (also known as black mold).

Effects of mold

Some people are extremely sensitive to mold and can develop various complications. These include chest and nasal congestion, sore throat, headaches, watering or dry eyes, skin irritation, coughing, and sneezing.

Mold can also cause infections, particularly to those people who are already suffering from lung problems or have a compromised immune system. Besides that, several respiratory conditions are also caused by mold in healthy people. These include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and problems associated with the upper respiratory tract.

This is not all! Some types of mold produce mycotoxins, which a toxic by-product that the skin and airways can absorb. Exposure to this toxin for a large time can lead to other severe and even deadly conditions.

Professional removal of mold

Professionals use mold remediation equipment, which is specially designed to eliminate mold from your home. If you are facing chronic mold infestation, you need to hire a professional to remove the mold before you can restore your home. This will certainly save you from mold allergies and infections.