Mold & Breathing Problems

The presence of mold is a source of respiratory problems for sure, and there are ways to detect and remove mold before it becomes a problem. Mold is seen and smelled, appearing as fuzzy patches or as discolored or slimy patches. A strong musty odor is a sure sign even if the mold is not visible. Experts do not know how much exposure is too much, while all agree exposure is not healthy.

Breathing problems

• Sinus headaches are sometimes a symptom of mold exposure.

  There are both visible and not visible effects directly relating to mold exposure. Allergies and allergic reactions are common as is asthma. Irritation of eyes, nose, throat and sinus congestion and sinus headaches are effects identical to the common cold. A runny nose (rhinorrhea) and wheezing are two more effects that result from exposure to mold spores. Two serious but not visible effects are chronic airway inflammation and infections, which can cause scarring and sometimes serious illness.

Alert to danger

• Each exposure to mold is more dangerous than previous ones.

  A cautionary note: Each successive exposure to mold for those that are allergic will cause more severe symptoms than the previous episodes. Avoidance of mold and mold spores is especially important to those that are sensitive and is actually sound advice for everybody.

Mold growth

• Mold thrives in damp areas.

  Mold requires moisture and a food source, such as cardboard, wallboard, damp clothing or rags and similar items. The not so good news is even if the mold is not actively growing, the dead spores cause the same problems as the live spores. Some sources encouraging mold growth are areas that have been previously flooded, roof and plumbing leaks, and drainage problems. Damp basement and crawl spaces are very common areas for growth. Frequent steam from cooking and bath use, condensation, humidifiers, poor ventilation and old air conditioner filters are also common areas where mold thrives.

Steps to control

• Never store wet clothing in closets.

  Regularly use the exhaust fans in the kitchen and the bath, and use mold-killing cleaner on bathroom surfaces such as the shower walls, curtain and tiles. Remove or never use carpet in the bathroom--floor tiles are the sensible choice. Use the very best quality filters in the air conditioning and the heating system, this is not a place to save a dollar. Never put away wet footwear and never put wet or even damp clothing in drawers and closets. Any water leak should be repaired promptly or call a professional. Last but not least, do not burn firewood that has mold on the bark in a wood stove or a fireplace.

Weakened immune system

• Those with occupational exposure to mold must take precautions.

  People with less than a strong immune system should be especially careful because exposure to mold might cause serious complications such as infection. A person recovering from open surgery should strictly avoid mold and moldy places such as a damp cellar or crawl space. People in repeated contact with mold in an occupation should wear protective clothing for the skin and respiratory protection if warranted.