The Health Dangers of Mold

In caves, forests and other environments, mold breaks down decaying plant and animal matter and deposits nutrients into the surrounding soil, but it can bring its share of serious health issues if it grows in your home. Fortunately, most kinds of mold is generally easy to ignore, but sometimes a tiny splotch can grow to large proportions. When mold reproduces, it releases particles into the air which can cause problems if breathed in by people with sensitivities or respiratory issues. According to a few studies, there is a link between an early exposure to mold and the development of asthma in some younger children.

For most, garden variety mold, mildew or fungi isn’t harmful or even obvious. That said, it can impact other folks who are sensitive or who have asthma. Usually, the amount of mold and sensitivity of a person’s allergies has the most effect on their response. If you have a mold allergy, you’ll likely sneeze, have a runny nose, cough, red eyes, wheeze, a skin rash or a headache when you’re near mold. More severe allergies can cause harsh reactions such as shortness of breath. Anyone with asthma should be particularly careful near large populations of mold because it may trigger asthma attacks. Other sensitive groups at risk include:

  • Babies and kids
  • Seniors
  • Immune compromised individuals
  • Those with chronic pulmonary disease

Where is Mold Found?

Commonly found in moist areas, mold and mildew does build up over time. Your home can get a mold infestation through open doorways, windows, vents and HVAC systems. Mold doesn’t only invade your home through doors and windows– it can also latch onto your clothes, backpacks, animals and shoes and be moved indoors.

Mold growth can affect your family’s health, as well as your possessions and the structure itself. Mold can grow in wet places, but it can be found in unexpected places. These include:

  • Paper products
  • Ceiling tiles
  • Cardboard
  • Wood products
  • Paints
  • Insulation
  • Drywall
  • Upholstery

How Can I Prevent Mold in the House?

You can take precautions to in order to stop mold from infesting your home. We suggest the following:

  • Set up ventilation for bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchen
  • Monitor the humidity levels
  • In the case of flooding, meticulously clean and dry your home
  • Repair leaky roofs, windows or pipes right away
  • Contact your local mold damage repair specialists for affordable mold removal

Call Paul Davis Today for 24/7 Emergency Mold Services

Do you suspect that there might be a mold infestation in your home that’s too much for you to take care of on your own? Call the mold removal professionals at Paul Davis. Call Paul! (239) 337-2500 for affordable mold removal.