In Severe Cases Symptoms Caused By Inhaling Black Mold Can Lead To The Following Health Troubles:
- Vomiting
- Asthma
- Respiratory complications
Sometimes mold invades spaces that are hard to see and reach. It spreads fast, burrowing into walls and ceilings and hiding in cupboards and under carpets. Quite often, people are exposed to black mold without even knowing it. If you or anyone in your home is experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms without knowing why, you may be exposed to mold.
Black mold should be approached with extreme caution. Tackling black mold without proper knowledge and equipment is unsafe. The suspected contamination should always be examined and removed by professionals.
A professional black mold removal service will tackle the contamination with advanced equipment and technology. For instance, protective masks and gear should be worn at all times, to ensure maximum safety.
Speaking Of Chemicals That New Car Smell Is Toxic
If you’re like many, you’re in love with that “new car smell.” There are even car air fresheners that attempt to mimic this aroma so you can feel like your car came straight from the dealership. But the chemicals that make up this new car smell are actually dangerous and can make you sick.
A study conducted by the Ecology Center analyzed the air quality in over 200 new cars. There were over 275 chemicals present in these cars, mainly due to the new materials used to manufacture the vehicle’s interior. Some of the most toxic chemicals found were lead, chromium, and brominated flame retardants . These chemicals are linked to liver problems, cancer, birth defects, and impaired learning.
Recommendation: Keep your windows rolled down as much as possible for the first few weeks after you buy a new car. You can also buy a small portable air purifier that attaches to your a/c vent to assist with ventilation. Don’t use the air circulation option on your a/c until after the new car smell is gone.
Test Your Environment For Mold
Testing your environmenthome or workplacefor mold can be very beneficial since the symptoms of mold-related illness can be similar to other chronic inflammatory conditions such as Lyme.
There are different avenues you may take to address mold testing. Options exist for both professional testing and for self-testing.
DIY Mold Testing
There are pros and cons to each so a combination of these may be used:
Find a Qualified Indoor Environmental Professionals for Inspection
An indoor environmental professional knowledgeable about the effects of mold on sensitive populations can be helpful. Their trained eyes and tools can be helpful in identifying the source of your mold. Here are tips for finding a qualified mold inspector:
- Be sure the professional offers just inspection, not inspection with remediation to avoid conflicts of interest.
- Consider a virtual or phone consultation with indoor professionals aligned with the International Society for Environmentally Acquired Illness and their standards for indoor health.
- Look for a local IEP through ACAC.org
- Find inspection professionals with the CIEC and CMC certifications.
- Find remediation professionals with the CMRS and CMR certifications.
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When To See A Doctor For Mold Exposure
In the last few years, education and awareness on the impact of toxic mold on human health have increased. Mold spores tend to build up in an environment long before any visible signs of an infestation are clear, leading to long-term exposure to this harmful toxin. Mold exposure can be hard to diagnose since toxicity symptoms mimic several other health conditions. However, in severe situations, exposure to mold warrants a visit to a medical professional. This guide can help you narrow down your exposure, possible signs of illness, and how a doctor can help.
Strategies To Keep You Safe In The Shower
Dr. Brown suggests three actions you can take to keep your shower the sanctuary you need it to be:
Clean or replace your shower curtain liner
I recommend replacing your shower liner every six months to a year, says Dr. Brown. Alternatively, you can pop it in the washing machine and run a rinse cycle with bleach or vinegar. Then, hang it on the line outside or back in the shower to dry.
Dr. Brown doesnt recommend standing in the shower and spraying your shower curtain with a cleaning solution. In a twist of cleaning irony, inhaling the cleaner is worse for you than the dirty shower liner.
Keep your tub and shower surround clean
Dr. Brown suggests cleaning your bathtub and shower walls with an all-purpose bleach cleaner every week, which will keep surfaces clean enough for a babys bottom. Spray the solution on the surface and let it sit for 10 to 15 seconds so it can kill any lingering bacteria. Next, wipe down the shower and tub surfaces, then rinse.
Close the toilet lid when flushing
Studies have shown that when you flush the toilet, the water mist can spray up to six feet, says Dr. Brown. If your toilet is situated next to the shower, you increase the likelihood that the toilet water can touch the shower curtain or surround.
So close the toilet lid before you flush to keep the mist contained.
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What Temperature Kills Mold Spores In Food
Most molds are killed off by temperatures of 60-70°C . Thus, boiling water is generally enough to kill off mold. Remember, though, that mold doesnt just grow on the surface: heat will have to penetrate into whatever the mold is growing in to kill it. Also keep in mind that the mycotoxins produced by certain mold can survive intense heat: boiling may kill the mold but leave its poisons still intact.
Encontr Moho En Mi Casa Qu Prueba Debo Hacer Para Saber De Qu Tipo Se Trata
Si usted puede ver u oler el moho, es posible que haya un riesgo para su salud. No necesita saber qué tipo de moho está creciendo en su casa, y los CDC no recomiendan ni analizan muestras de moho de forma rutinaria. No importa qué tipo de moho tenga, usted debe eliminarlo. Como los efectos del moho en las personas pueden variar mucho debido a la cantidad o el tipo de moho, usted no puede depender del análisis y cultivo para saber el riesgo para su salud.
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What Are Symptoms And Signs Of Mold Exposure
Molds produce irritating substances that may act as allergy-causing substances in sensitive individuals. Furthermore, some molds produce toxic substances known as mycotoxins, but mold itself is not poisonous or toxic. The term “toxic mold,” therefore, refers to the fact that certain kinds of mold can produce mycotoxins. The conditions under which some molds produce toxins are not understood, and the presence of mold, even a mold that is capable of producing toxins, does not always imply that toxins are being produced or that a health risk or problem is present. Mold may not cause any health problems, or it may lead to allergy or other symptoms in people, including adults and children, who are sensitive to molds.
Allergic reactions to mold are the most common health effects of mold and are therefore the greatest health risk related to mold. Allergic reactions may happen immediately or develop after a period following exposure. Both growing mold and mold spores may lead to allergic reactions. Symptoms and signs of mold allergy may include
Mold or mold spores may cause asthma attacks in people who have asthma and are allergic to mold. Even in some non-allergic individuals, mold can cause symptoms of irritation in the eyes, skin, and airways. For example, the “black mold”Stachybotrys, along with some other types of mold, produces toxins known as mycotoxins that can cause irritation of the skin and airways in susceptible individuals.
Addressing Mold Toxicity In The Body
If you find elevated mold toxins in the body, you will want to take measures to improve detoxification systems. In addition to this, you will want to ensure the source of mold is remediated properly. Using an air purification system like The EnviroKlenz Mobile UV Air System is the last step in a comprehensive mold mitigation protocol.
When it comes to getting mold toxins out of the body, the following is my go-to stack:
ThyroLiver Protect: A combination of selenium, milk thistle extract, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, and N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine. This combination assists liver detoxification while supporting the production of glutathione. Taking 12 caps, 2 times daily helps your liver neutralize and process the mold spores.
Super Glutathione: For tough cases, extra glutathione can be necessary. This is an acetylated form that is able to be absorbed by the digestive tract. I recommend 12 caps 2 times daily. This is especially important if you are suffering with a lot of symptoms from mold exposure.
Coconut Charcoal: When detoxification systems are upregulated, many toxins are released into the digestive tract. If they are not bound by something like charcoal, they are given the opportunity to reabsorb and cause more problems. Using 12 caps of charcoal between meals and immediately before bed is a great strategy.
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Types Of Mold Sickness And Symptoms
Mold can be found almost everywhere, though it thrives in warm, humid environments. It spreads by releasing tiny spores that float through the air. Some types of mold also produce mycotoxins, microscopic organic compounds that can attach to mold spores and cause additional health effects when inhaled.
Mold exposure does not always cause adverse reactions, and different types of mold can cause a person to react in distinctly different ways. However, those who are sensitive to mold or have mold allergies may experience the following symptoms after exposure, according to the CDC:
- Nasal stuffiness
- Eye, throat or skin irritation
- Coughing or wheezing
Reactions may be more severe in those with:
- Mold allergies
- Weakened immune systems
- Chronic lung illnesses
If you are in one of the above groups, the CDC recommends staying away from likely sources of mold, such as wooded areas, compost piles and freshly-cut grass.
Which Food Will Mold Fastest
Storage conditions will have a significant effect on how quickly a given food turns moldy. However, all things being equal, food with a high moisture content will mold first. Thus, in the fridge, fruits such as strawberries or cucumber might get moldy before other foods. Stored at room temperature, natural bread can get moldy quite quickly.
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What Are The Signs Of Mold
Mold starts out as a little spot but expands quickly. Youll usually notice it early on, unless its in an out-of-the-way location.
Mold can be black, white, spotted, or just about any color, and may appear powdery, cottony, or velvety.
If you notice a spot and arent sure if its just an old stain or a splotch of dirt, heres how to tell if it could be a sign of mold:
- It has a musty, earthy smell.
- Theres a nearby source of moisture, but not much light.
- You see warping, cracking, or peeling of whatever material its growing on.
- A drop of bleach lightens its color in a minute or two.
- Unchecked, mold will continue to grow. Dirt and old stains wont.
Having mold in your home wont necessarily make you sick. But it does have the potential to cause certain health issues.
Touching or inhaling mold spores can cause allergy-type symptoms such as:
- runny nose and congestion
- lung irritation
- wheezing
In many cases, you can get rid of household mold yourself. Mold can be removed with:
- commercial products
- a bleach solution of 8 ounces of bleach per 1 gallon of water
Before you begin:
- Wear protective eyewear, nonporous gloves, and a face mask or N-95 respirator.
- Never mix other cleaners or ammonia with bleach, as it can create toxic fumes.
Use a brush to scrub mold off surfaces, making sure you get it all. Porous materials, such as carpeting, furniture, and ceiling tiles, may have to be discarded. Dont paint or caulk until youre sure all the mold is gone.
How Long Does It Take For Black Mold To Kill You
Black mold, or Stachybotrys atra, has a reputation for being fatal. This is due to reports that black mold was related to infant deaths in the 1990s. Its also been linked to the idea of sick building syndrome and is often called toxic black mold.
But theres no solid evidence proving that black mold is toxic. Black mold, and mold in general, is not deadly.
Still, black mold can cause unwanted side effects, especially those in people who are sensitive to mold. This includes people who are young, old, or have compromised immune systems.
Visit a doctor if you have:
- persistent sinus and nasal congestion
- frequent headaches
- unexplained skin irritation
- more frequent asthma attacks
Sometimes, it can be difficult to know if mold is causing your symptoms. Many side effects of mold exposure are similar to other conditions, like seasonal allergies. Some symptoms also take time to appear.
Your best bet is to see a doctor, even if youre unsure your symptoms are related to mold. They can help you find relief.
The best way to treat mold exposure symptoms is to reduce exposure. Follow these tips:
- Avoid contact with moldy items or surfaces.
- Avoid damp rooms, like basements.
- Remove mold from the home by cleaning surfaces and drying damp areas.
- Increase ventilation by using a fan or opening windows.
- Reduce indoor humidity with a dehumidifier.
The length of time it takes for mold to leave your body will depend on your level of previous exposure.
- a musty, earthy odor
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How Do Doctors Test For Mold Exposure
If you are aware of mold growth in your home and you feel sick let the doctor know that right away. But sometimes you cant see mold, and it is not clear whether its mold exposure thats made you sick or not.
Because mold allergy or mold exposure symptoms can resemble that of other allergies, the doctor will typically start by asking about your medical and family medical history. Additionally, doctors usually run tests for mold exposure which may include one or more of the following:
- Skin test for reactions to allergens, including mold
- IgG mold antibodies test to see the immune systems reaction to molds. A positive test means that an individual was or is currently exposed to mold
- Urine mycotoxins test
- A fungal culture of the nose sinuses
The type of testing youll receive depends on the doctor you visit, so be sure to ask questions ahead of time so you can feel confident in your diagnosis.
It’s Basically Bacteria On Wheels
Most surfaces, including public restroom doors, phone screens, and kitchen counters, have a small amount of fecal matter and other hazardous bacteria. These areas are considered “touch points,” which means hands are frequently touching them and spreading these nasty germs.
Your car is full of thousands of touch pointsthe gear shift, the door handle, the steering wheel, buttons on the radio. All of these touch points are also susceptible to dangerous bacteria and germs, including fecal matter, which can have e. Coli or salmonella. Factor in the crumbs from the snacks you munch on in your car from time to time and you’re adding in rotting food particles, which creates a breeding ground for this bacteria.
According to a study conducted by CarRentals.com, there are an average of 700 strains of bacteria festering throughout the interior of your car. The average steering wheel has about 629 colony-forming units per square centimeter, making it four times dirtier than a public toilet seat. If you touch the steering wheel, then eat food, bite your nails, or wipe your nose, you’re only spreading it and exposing yourself to potential illness.
Recommendation: Clean your car after every long road trip and once every few weeks. Use a cleaner with antibacterial properties and wipe down all touch points thoroughly, including the dashboard and buttons. Keep sanitizing wipes in your car to use after eating.
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Mold Toxicity Vs Mold Allergies
Often times confusion surrounds the different mold illnesses, specifically mold toxicity and mold allergies. These two separate illnesses illicit different reactions in the body and can affect a person differently.
Mold allergies are caused by mold spores that become inhaled and stimulate symptoms similar to those of hay fever . Mold toxicity, in comparison to mold allergies, is caused by the volatile toxic vapors that are dispersed by mold that in turn elicits a chronic inflammatory response.
Diagnosing this condition is very hard, especially for medical professionals who often misdiagnose it because of the wide variation of possible symptoms. The first step in diagnosing mold toxicity or even mold allergies is identifying mold within your environment, particularly in your home.
What Is House Mold
Have you started to notice signs of mold growth in your home allergy-like symptoms, discoloration on surfaces, or even the distinct smell of mustiness in the air? These can all be signs of potential house mold growth within this indoor environment, and it is important not to ignore these indicators if present in your home. Household mold is a fungus that is versatile, allowing it the ability to grow in both indoor and outdoor environments where conditions for its growth and development are optimal. According to Medical News Today, mold can enter into your home through the air or even by attaching to objects or people that are brought into this environment, and thus allowing it to enter and grow rapidly on surfaces.
This type of fungus will spread rapidly throughout the indoor airspace through tiny spores that are unknowingly floating within this air in your home. These spores are called mold spores, these spores are minuscule reproductive seeds that move in the air in pursuit to attach to surfaces and begin its growth and development furthering the mold invasion in the environment. As mold spores travel in the air, the health risks become heightened since these small spores can easily become ingested and/or inhaled into the body, reaching deep into the recesses of the lungs and potentially into the bloodstream this can cause significant health issues quickly.
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