According to real estate website Ruby Home, mold is common in 47% of residential buildings in the US. About 21% of asthma cases in the country are linked to mold and dampness. Despite this commonality, few people recognize long-term mold exposure symptoms as they experience them.
What exactly are the health risks associated with chronic mold exposure, and how can you prevent mold from growing in your home? Read on to find out!
Causes of Mold Growth
Excess humidity or moisture can cause mold to grow in your home. Common sources of moisture that can lead to mold growth include:
- Building materials with high moisture content
- Wet/damp materials (clothes, upholstery, carpets)
- Poorly maintained/malfunctioning HVAC systems
- High indoor humidity
- Poor ventilation
- Flooding or water intrusion (from heavy rain storms)
- Insufficient or improper insulation in ceilings or walls
- Inadequate ventilation in laundry rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms
- Dampness in crawl spaces or attics
- Condensation on cold surfaces (windows and walls)
- Leaks from windows, roofs, or pipes
It’s important to address these sources of moisture right away.Otherwise, mold spores will settle throughout your home. They can grow on surfaces before causing a mold infestation.
If you suspect mold is growing in your home, trust Central Florida’s number one choice for certified mold inspections.Elite Mold Services can detect hidden mold issues and recommend remediation options as needed.
High-Risk Groups
People who are at high-risk for mold health risks include:
- People with pre-existing respiratory conditions
- Elderly individuals
- Children
- People with compromised immune systems
If you or a loved one falls into one of these groups, consult an expert mold inspection company. Our team at Elite Mold Services is highly trained in evaluating moisture and indoor air quality issues. We can test for mold to ensure your home is safe for every member of your family.
Initial Health Impact of Mold
Short-term health effects of mold exposure may include:
- Eye irritation
- Skin rashes
- Headaches
- Nasal congestion
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
If you or a family member experiences these symptoms, test for mold growth right away.
Long-Term Mold Exposure Symptoms
Long-term mold exposure can contribute to chronic health issues. If you experience these symptoms of mold exposure, consider having a professional test for mold in your home.
Respiratory Reactions Allergic Reactions
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, nearly 28 million people in the US have asthma (one in 12 people). It’s the leading chronic disease in children, as well as one of the most common and costly diseases in the US.
Mold spores can sometimes trigger asthma symptoms, including:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
- Watery eyes
- Skin rashes/itching
- Red or itchy eyes
- Coughing
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Feve
If you’re allergic to mold, breathing in mold spores may trigger an asthma attack. Exposure to mold in indoor spaces may worsen existing asthma symptoms.
Chronic mold exposure may cause inflammation of the sinuses (chronic sinusitis). This may cause ongoing discomfort and sinus infections.
Neurological Effects
According to a 2020 study,mold exposure may cause neurological symptomsin one of two ways: through the release of mycotoxins or direct infections.
For example, mold can cause an infection that invades the spinal cord and brain. This could lead to central nervous system (CNS) infection, which is rare and dangerous.
Mold exposure doesn’t commonly cause direct infections. Instead, it triggers an immune response that can affect the nervous system. This may cause issues with anxiety and memory.
Certain types of mold can produce toxic substances called mycotoxins. They can cause direct harm to the brain by interfering with the nervous system’s communication pathways. This may cause:
- Headaches
- Memory issues
- Sudden mood changes
Headaches due to chronic mold exposure can range from mild to severe. They may feel dull, pressure-like, or constant. Some people experience sensitivity to light and sound or nausea.
When it leads to CNS infections, mold may trigger seizures in some people. Mycotoxins may affect the brain’s electrical activity, causing a seizure. Seek medical attention as soon as possible if one occurs.
Mold exposure can also cause:
- Memory issues
- Difficulty concentrating or focusing
- Distraction
- Feeling mentally slow
Immune System Impact
Chronic mold exposure may weaken your immune system. This can make you more susceptible to other illnesses and infections.
If you have a pre-existing immune system disorder, mold exposure can worsen pre-existing symptoms. You could develop more severe health problems.
Tips to Prevent Mold Growth
Learning how to prevent mold growth can help protect your family from serious health issues. Here are a few ways to prevent mold growth in your home.
Control Humidity
Try to keep your indoor humidity below 50%. Place dehumidifiers in the dampest areas of your home to reduce moisture, including:
- The laundry room
- Bathrooms
- The kitchen
Make sure ventilation fans are installed in the kitchen and bathrooms. Use them to vent moisture out of your home.
If there’s a spill or flooding, dry the area within 24 to 48 hours to minimize the risk of mold growth. Remove any water-damaged materials, including carpets, insulation, or drywall.
Improve Ventilation
Prevent moisture buildup by improving the airflow throughout your home. You can:
- Open windows and doors
- Install ventilation systems
- Use dehumidifiers
- Rearrange furniture to improve air circulation
Regularly inspect vulnerable areas in your home that are more prone to mold growth. These can include air conditioning ducts, the kitchen, and bathrooms. Don’t forget to check behind appliances and under sinks.
Schedule Inspections
Schedule an annual mold inspection to minimize and remedy mold growth, especially if the area is prone to flooding. Our experts can use state-of-the-art technology to detect hidden mold.
Protect Your Home From Mold
If you start experiencing long-term mold exposure symptoms, don’t hesitate to request help. Working with a mold prevention and remediation team can make your home a safer place to live.
Look no further for help than Elite Mold Services. With 60+ years of combined experience, ACAC certifications, and NORMI certifications, our knowledgeable team can create a customized plan of action specific to your home and needs. Contact our certified mold experts now to check for mold in your home!