Mold is everywhere in the world, but we do not always notice it when it is hiding in the corners of our homes and offices. Mold may not seem dangerous, but it can be very bad for your health, especially if you are allergic to it. Discovering and fixing mold problems in your home or business is easy with our website.
The hidden problem of mold.
Mold grows best in damp, warm places, so it is common in homes and businesses that have water damage, bad airflow, or leaks. Mold spores can cause allergic reactions in people who are likely to be exposed to them when they are released into the air.
The respiratory effects of mold.
Respiratory problems are one of the most common health problems linked to mold allergies. Mold spores can harm the lungs and cause a number of symptoms, such as:
- Coughing: If you have a mold allergy, you may have a prolonged cough as your body tries to get rid of the annoying particles.
- Sneezing: The body’s immune system responds to allergens by making people sneeze a lot. This is another sign of a mold allergy.
- Wheezing: Mold spores can make the lungs swell, which can cause coughing, especially in people with asthma.
- Shortness of breath: In serious cases, a mold allergy can make it hard to breathe, which makes it hard to do physical activities.
Skin sensitivity.
Skin irritations are another sign of a mold allergy. Getting mold or mold spores on your skin can lead to:
- Rash: Skin that has been exposed to mold may get a red, itchy rash.
- Eczema: For people who already have eczema, being around mold can make their condition worse by making their skin more inflamed and painful.
The neurological impact.
Mold allergies can affect more than just the skin and lungs. They can also have a big effect on the brain. Mold exposure has been linked to a number of brain problems, such as:
- Headaches: If you get headaches a lot, it could mean you are allergic to mold because your immune system is reacting to it and causing congestion.
- Fatigue: People who are allergic to mold often feel tired all the time because their bodies are working so hard to deal with the constant immune reaction.
- Cognitive difficulties: Some studies have found a link between being exposed to mold and cognitive problems like forgetfulness and trouble focusing.
Seek medical help immediately.
If you think you might be allergic to mold, you should see a doctor right away to get a correct evaluation and treatment. Getting help early can help ease symptoms and stop problems from getting worse.
Things you can do to prevent mold growth.
Consider taking the following steps to limit your exposure to mold and lower your risk of allergic reactions:
- Control moisture: Use dehumidifiers and vent fans in the kitchen and bathrooms to keep the humidity level in your home below 50%.
- Fix leaks right away: Fix any pipe or water leaks right away to stop mold from growing.
- Improve ventilation: Make sure your home has enough air flow by opening windows and using fans.
- Clean regularly: Wear protective gloves and a mask and clean moldy surfaces with a mixture of bleach and water.
- Get a professional mold cleanup: If you have a big mold problem, you might want to hire a professional mold cleanup company to get rid of the mold and stop it from growing again.
People who are allergic to mold can control their symptoms with air filters, regular cleaning, anti-inflammatory foods, and seeing an allergist. You can keep yourself and your family safe from the bad effects of mold allergy by taking these steps.
