Mold is a fungus that multiplies by means of tiny airborne spores less than half the width of a human hair. It causes property damage and the health risks of mold in the home pose more than a threat to cleanliness.
Mold requires moisture to grow and is often found in damp areas of the home, near leaking fixtures or where there’s been flooding. Mold can grow on wallpaper, carpet, upholstery, or furniture, anywhere there is moisture.
Health Risks of Mold in the Home
The health risks from mold in the home are troublesome, especially if you already suffer from asthma or allergies. When you inhale mold every day, you risk irritation of the eyes, skin, throat, nose, and lungs. Mold can even affect the brain. Headaches and fatigue are sometimes attributed to mold.
Symptoms of Mold Exposure
Molds have the ability to produce health symptoms such as skin rashes, respiratory distress, various types of inflammation, cognitive issues, and immune suppression. The most common symptoms associated with the health risks of mold in the home are allergic rhinitis (stuffy nose) and adult-onset asthma.
Exposure to mold may cause respiratory problems such as asthma in otherwise healthy children. For people who are already dealing with allergies, the presence of mold can worsen those symptoms. Those with chronic pulmonary diseases, lower immune function, the elderly, and children and infants have more severe reactions to mold in the home.
How to Prevent Mold in the Home
Manage your home’s humidity to help minimize mold growth. If you notice moisture or water damage, get to the source of the problem. Inspect for leaks in your plumbing or roof and have those leaks repaired quickly to prevent mold from growing.
Mold may be present even if it is not visible. If you are experiencing health issues or symptoms that last longer than a standard cold or flu, consider hiring a home inspector to test for mold in your home. Learn more about steps to take to remedy the issue and reduce the health risks of mold in the home.
HomeSpec Inspection and Renovation Consultants offers mold testing in North Mississippi. Contact us to schedule an inspection for your home.