What Is The Outlook For People Who Have A Mold Allergy
Mold allergy cant be cured, but it can be managed with efforts to reduce your exposure to mold and with taking suggested medications if needed.
There are certain types of molds that are more dangerous to your health than others. These are molds that emit mycotoxins or cause infections, which can cause serious illness and even death.
What Amount Of Mold Is Harmful To Your Health
Generally, more mold is linked to negative health complications. If there is a lot of mold present, you are more likely to experience symptoms that quickly develop. This is also dependent on the individual. For some people, exposure just once to a small bit of mold will not be enough for them to experience symptoms. But for those who are reactive to mold, it can trigger adverse reactions very quickly.
How Can I Check For Mold
Its best to hire a professional to help you identify and remove mold, especially if youre allergic or vulnerable to it.
You should also consider hiring help if the mold covers more than 10 square feet or if its hidden behind wallpaper, ceiling tiles, or other areas.
Here are some steps for identifying and removing mold.
Recommended Reading: How To Check If There Is Mold In Your House
Create A Bleach Mixture
If the black mold growth in your home is small enough for you to treat alone, a simple mixture of bleach and water can help. Add one cup of bleach to one gallon of water and apply it to the moldy spots. You can also find commercial black mold removal products.
Soak a paper towel in the cleaner and press it over the mold growth to dampen the area. Then start scrubbing. Avoid spraying moldy areas, since the droplets will collide with the mold spores and launch them throughout the room, making them easier to breathe in and harder to eradicate.
Be sure to dry the area thoroughly when youre done.
Do NOT mix bleach with ammonia. This combination can create toxic fumes that are far more dangerous than any mold youre trying to clean.
Can You Get Sick From A Mold On Bathroom Ceiling
Yes, it is possible to get sick from a mold on a bathroom ceiling. Mold spores are microscopic, so it is difficult to know if it is in your home or not. If you have a mold on your bathroom ceiling, it could cause a wide range of health problems, depending on the type of mold and the persons individual sensitivity.
Symptoms can range from mild reactions such as a runny nose or sneezing, to more serious problems such as difficulty breathing and skin rash. Even if the mold is not visible, it can still be causing harm as some types of black mold release toxic spores into the air.
To reduce the risk of illness caused by a mold on a bathroom ceiling, it is important to identify the source of the problem and eliminate it. This might include making sure the bathroom is well-ventilated, fixing any water leaks or plumbing issues, or removing and replacing any moldy materials.
Don’t Miss: What Does Toxic Black Mold Look Like
What Happens If You Eat Mold
The thought of eating something covered in mold will likely give you a gag reflex.
After discovering that our kitchen was the source of the contamination, we had to throw away most of the food we stored inside the cabinets.
Even if you dont see any, there can still be mold growth in your food. Patches on the surface of foods are usually the last places mold shows.
The good news is that gagging will most likely be the only reaction you get from eating something that has gone bad. If youre less lucky, you may experience digestive discomfort for a few days. However, mold can cause severe and acute toxicity in some unlucky individuals.
You might be at a higher risk if you have pre-existing digestive and immune system issues and an already burdened and out-of-balance body.
Foods prone to mold growth are also high in histamines, which aggravates the already existing inflammation in the body.
As mentioned earlier, the bad news is that not all mold is visible to the human eye. Certain molds produce naturally occurring toxins called mycotoxins. Exposure to these might cause an immediate allergic reaction. Long-term exposure has been linked to the induction of cancers and immune deficiencies.
As a side note, be extra careful if you have a pet at home. Moldy foods are hazardous, toxic, and deadly to domesticated pets and wildlife.
So, what foods should you be conscious about, and how do you keep your food mold-free?
Sneezing And Nasal Congestion
While many things can trigger sneezing, its also a symptom of mold toxicity that should get your attention. If youve never had allergies or hay fever symptoms and youre positive you dont have a cold, those sneezes could indicate mold exposure.
Sneezing is the immune systems standard response to allergens. It could also be a warning sign that your home has a mold problem.
Don’t Miss: How To Kill Mold With Hydrogen Peroxide
Eliminate The Source Of Mold
Mold can grow anywhere there is dampness. To reduce the risk of mold in your home or office, fix water leaks. Use fans to circulate the air and dry the area. Clean susceptible areas like bathrooms often and use ventilation fans to decrease the humidity in your home. When cleaning, make sure that you wear a mask to prevent the inhalation of mold spores. Once you finish cleaning moldy areas, wash your clothing immediately, and take a shower to prevent spreading mold spores throughout your home. If your home has been subjected to extensive water damage, contact a mold remediation specialist and have your home professionally cleaned. The cleaners may recommend carpets, draperies, and upholstery to be disposed of if they cannot be properly cleaned by the professional.
Mold can be several different colors, including green, black, and brown. Sometimes mold will appear as a spot and begin to grow. Mold has a musty, earthy smell. Mold can be hidden behind drywall, under carpets, or behind wallpaper. Routinely inspect your roof, basement, and crawl space for moisture. Check plumbing pipes, kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms for any signs of mold. Routine inspections of these areas can prevent a large mold infestation. As soon as you notice the first traces of mold, use a mixture of bleach and water to clean the area, and destroy the mold spores.
Indoor Air Quality Solutions For Mold
The best way to avoid mold in the home or workplace is to prevent its growth altogether. Because mold thrives in damp, warm environments, you can try:
- Keeping the relative humidity in your home between 30% and 50%.
- Checking high-moisture areas, such as window sills, under-sink cabinets and indoor plants, regularly for visible mold growth.
- Increasing ventilation in your homeespecially in high-moisture areas such as the bathroom, kitchen and laundry room. You can do this by installing an exhaust fan, running your HVAC system or opening windows .
- Adding an air purifier to help remove mold spores from the air in your home. Make sure to follow the manufacturers instructions on cleaning and replacing the filters. The Molekule air purifier with proprietary PECO technology destroys mold spores that pass through the device, instead of trapping them within the unit.
You May Like: How To Test For Mold Air Quality
Actions You Can Take To Reduce Mould
The most important actions you can take to prevent mould in your home are those that minimise moisture.
- Fix leaky plumbing and roofs and other building faults
- Ensure gutters are cleared and maintained
- Reduce condensation by using exhaust fans, or open windows in the bathroom and kitchen when showering, cooking or using the dishwasher
- Wipe up excess water caused by condensation such as on single glazed windows and on shower glazing
- Air the home regularly by opening windows and doors on warmer days
- Vent clothes dryers to the outside and clean lint filters according to the manufacturers instructions.
Refer to information about cleaning up mould: refer to the information on the Better Health Channel website.
How Soon After Mold Exposure Can You Get Sick
What’s Inside?
Molds are tiny fungi that thrive in moist environments. They reproduce by setting spores free into the environment, to fly around in air currents. We can breathe in mold spores, which is generally not harmful. However, large amounts can cause cold-like symptoms. People with allergies or asthma may experience more severe reactions to mold exposure.
Several factors, such as your health and environment, can play a role in how soon symptoms begin. Let’s chat about the reasons for mold, as well as the sicknesses it can cause.
Also Check: How To Have House Tested For Mold
Will A Dehumidifier Or Air Purifier Help With Mold
You can slow the spread of mold in your house with a dehumidifier that helps keep an area dry and an air purifier, which can capture mold spores in the air. Wiping down surfaces such as bathroom tile will also help.
Once mold is present, you have to treat it to get rid of it. If the mold hasnt extensively spread, you can use household cleaners such as white vinegar or bleach diluted in a lot of water. If youre allergic or sensitive to mold, its best to wear a mask when cleaning. Seek out the help of a professional if mold covers a large area or if its gotten into the drywall, ceilings or floors because the materials may have to be replaced.
Different Types Of Mold
Allergenic Molds. Allergenic molds are on the low end of the danger scale. They only cause problems for those with asthma and a predisposed allergy to the specific mold. Children are more likely to have mold allergies than adults.
Pathogenic Molds. Pathogenic molds will cause some infection. This is a big problem for those with a suppressed immune system. An acute response resembling bacterial pneumonia is commonly found with those exposed to these types of mold.
Toxigenic Molds. As the name implies, these molds produce mycotoxins that can cause serious health effects. They have been tied to immunosuppression and cancer. The toxic chemicals found in these types of molds can be absorbed into the body when one inhales them, eats them, or even touches them.
Recommended Reading: What To Do If Your House Has Black Mold
Who Might Be At Risk From Basement Mold
So, whos most at risk of becoming sick from basement mold? There is a misunderstanding that someone is allergic to mold, when in reality there are a number of reasons someone can be affected, McBride told Live Science.
One study published in the Frontier in Immunology journal indicates that the factors contributing to what is referred to as dampness and mold hypersensitivity syndrome could be a combination of:
- Genetic predisposition
- Cumulative exposure time over the course of someones lifetime
- The age at which someone was first exposed to toxic mold microbes
What we do know is that people who are more sensitive to being ill as a result of basement mold are babies and children, the elderly, people with existing skin problems such as eczema and respiratory problems such as allergies, as well as people who have a weakened or compromised immune system.
Related:Dehumidifiers on sale
Keep in mind that long-term short-dose exposure can be just as harmful as short-term large-dose exposure, said McBride. Basement mold can make you sick, so its vital you do whatever you can to eliminate moisture and reduce the risk of mold growing.
If you think you might be at risk, its important to discuss your concerns with a health professional.
Dont Miss: How To Remove Mold From Canvas Awning
Can Sleeping In A Room With Mold Kill You
No, it is not healthy to sleep in a room with mold and mildew. An interior mold of any kind of exposure is something to worry about and mold inside your bedroom is particularly so, simply as a result of the number of hrs you invest in your bedroom breathing it in while you rest. Beyond the instant allergy signs and symptoms, mold and mildew direct exposure usually create rest concerns, too.
Recognize What Are The Symptoms of Mold Exposure
If they enter into contact with mold, they may experience signs and symptoms, such as:
- a dripping or blocked nose.
- watery, red eyes.
- an aching throat.
So, how long you can really stay inside a room with mold? 2 days. Also even worse, if you dont take any action the mold will certainly continue growing until actions are taken to get rid of the problem. Drying out extensively may assist avoid prompt and long-term health problems. Permit areas to completely dry a couple of days before replacing damaged products.
If you have mold on your property you should call a professional mold remediation company right away. give us a call today at 866-632-6270.
Read Also: How To Clean Black Mold Out Of Washing Machine
You May Like: How To Get Rid Of Mold Growing On Soil
Summary Of Health Problems
Many types of indoor mold, not just black mold, may cause health problems in some individuals.
Long-term exposure to high levels of mold in the home, however,
People who are most at risk of the symptoms of mold exposure are:
- infants and children
- people with allergies or asthma
- people with weakened immune systems
The main health risks related to mold exposure are allergies and irritation, which typically cause respiratory symptoms.
People with weakened immune systems may also have a risk of fungal infection.
Q: Can Mold On Toothbrush Make You Sick
A: Yes, mold on toothbrushes can cause health issues such as asthma, sinusitis, and allergies. The best way to prevent mold from growing on your toothbrush is to keep it clean and dry. If you do not want to throw away your toothbrush, then you should soak it in hot water for 10 minutes. After soaking, rinse it thoroughly with soap and water.
Recommended Reading: What Can Mold In Your House Cause
How To Be Preventative About Moldy Weed
Thereâs a lot of risk that goes along with smoking moldy weed, and although you may not experience serious, life-threatening side effects, itâs never a good idea to take a chance â no high is worth that!
Unfortunately, once your weed has been contaminated with mold, thereâs no salvaging it. Desperate consumers have attempted cutting around the mold to get to the âgoodâ part, but once mold has entered the chat, there isnât a whole lot of âgoodâ left.
If you have reason to believe thereâs something wrong with your weed, youâre probably right. Itâs best to err on the side of caution and toss it, rather than take the massive risk.
Luckily, there are a few measures to take to ensure your cannabis stays fresh, healthy, and mold-free:
- Store your weed properly. To prevent moldy weed, your best defense is proper storage. Exposing cannabis to the wrong lighting, temperature, humidity, or oxygen levels can easily promote mold growth.
To combat this, use airtight containers , and avoid storing your cannabis in the freezer or fridge. The low temperatures and moisture are too risky. You should also store your stash in a dark, dry place and be wary of excess humidity levels.
Smoking moldy weed is never worth the risk, and you should never pass contaminated cannabis on to others. When in doubt, throw it out.
The Bluntness is gearing up for big things. Dont miss out! for our newsletter to stay in the loop.
Myths About Black Mold
Its important to address myths some people may have about black mold. One common rumor is that black mold releases toxic compounds called mycotoxins that cause health issues, like memory loss, headaches, and infant pulmonary hemorrhage.
But according to a review from 2017, theres no evidence that exposure to black mold causes particular health conditions.
Furthermore, while a variety of molds produce mycotoxins, these compounds are primarily dangerous for humans only when eaten in significant quantities.
A 2019 review of research into this topic states theres currently no evidence that mycotoxins in the air cause disease.
Read Also: How Do You Know If Mold Is Toxic
How Long Does It Take To Get Sick From Mold Exposure
As we were settling in, making our house a home, and enjoying life in a new country, something started to feel off.
Within a few days of moving in Andris sleep was getting progressively worse. From tiredness to pure exhaustion. He started experiencing different allergies and skin issues. His stomach was constantly bloated, and he looked like he was entering his third trimester of pregnancy. There was a massive contrast from the healthy, strong man I was used to seeing.
When we moved in, I cleaned all the kitchen cabinets because they had a horrible musty smell, but it kept coming back. So it didnt take me too long to put two and two together and understand what was going on.
After a few more days passed, Andri was already struggling to think straight.
He was experiencing brain fog and couldnt focus on anything. We continued to try solve the problem, hoping that our new home would be the happily ever after we envisioned.
But then, around day 9 of moving in, Andri started getting dizzy, and his vision was so blurry he couldnt even read his phone.
So, finally, we knew we had to get out and we escaped our new dream home in Portugal.
What was happening to us?
It turns out that Andri is allergic to mold. He started experiencing various health issues almost immediately. And as soon as we discovered that its coming from the kitchen, he started avoiding the area.
But since I didnt feel anything, I continued to spend time there.
