Can you get sick from mold? Exposure can cause symptoms in some people, while others notice no effects. If you are concerned, consider both your health needs and any damp conditions in your home.
Mold can be a serious problem, and it’s important to know how to spot it before it becomes a major issue. Not only can mold cause damage to your property, but it can also make you sick if left unchecked.
You don’t have to live with the fear of getting sick from mold in your home any longer! With our helpful guide, you will learn how to identify and remove mold safely so that you can enjoy living in a healthy environment.
Read on for more information about the health risks of mold and how to spot it!
Different Types of Mold
Mold is a type of fungus that can grow in damp and humid environments. It can grow indoors on damp materials. Disturbing mold can release spores into the air, where people may inhale them.
The CDC overview of mold and health describes allergy-like symptoms and asthma concerns. Addressing indoor dampness is useful, but symptoms need a medical assessment rather than a diagnosis based on a building stain.
Penicillium is one of many molds found in indoor environments. Growth can occur on damp materials such as:
- Carpets
- Paper
- Other materials
Other names you may encounter include Aspergillus, Alternaria, and Stachybotrys chartarum. Appearance alone cannot reliably identify a species or its health risk. The important building question is where moisture supports growth.
There’s also:
- Mortierella
- Fusarium
- Mucor
Do not assume that a mold is harmless because of its name or color. A professional assessment can explain the conditions and cleanup needs. Avoid tasting or deliberately inhaling suspected growth.
Mold vs. Mildew
EPA describes mildew as a term for certain mold or fungal growth, often with a flat appearance. The terms overlap. Mildew does not require low humidity or grow independently of moisture control.
For household cleanup, focus on the affected material and the moisture source. The label alone does not tell you which treatment is suitable.
Health Risks of Mold
Mold can cause a variety of health issues in humans, ranging from mild to more severe reactions. Allergies are common when mold spores are inhaled, such as:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
Those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to developing pneumonia or other serious lung infections after mold exposure. Discuss symptoms with a clinician who can consider other possible causes.
It’s important to remember that mold can be hazardous if not detected early, so it’s best to keep an eye out for any signs of mold in the home.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common symptoms in detail.
Respiratory Symptoms
Mold can cause a variety of respiratory distress, including:
- Worsening asthma symptoms
- Coughing or wheezing
- Allergic reactions
People with mold allergies are especially at risk for these problems. Mold can also trigger symptoms in people with chronic lung diseases, such as COPD.
Skin Irritation
Mold can also cause skin irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin. A rash can have many causes, so seek medical advice if it persists.
Symptoms Do Not Identify the Cause
Headaches and dizziness do not establish mold exposure or toxin-related illness. Tell a clinician when symptoms started and what else was happening. Avoid attributing every new symptom to mold without an assessment.
Plan Around Household Health Needs
Keep children away from mold cleanup areas. If a household member has asthma, lung disease, or a weakened immune system, discuss exposure concerns with their clinician. Share relevant access needs with the remediation team.
Airborne Mold vs. Mold on Food
Food contamination and damp-building exposure involve different situations. The WHO guidance on mycotoxins explains that some molds produce toxins in food. Those food-related risks do not establish the effects of a particular mold patch in a home.
Breathing in airborne molds can irritate your throat and lungs, leading to coughing and wheezing as well as more serious respiratory issues such as asthma attacks. Seek medical advice for persistent or concerning symptoms. Severe breathing difficulty needs urgent medical attention.
Treating Mold-Related Illness
A clinician can assess symptoms and decide whether treatment or testing is appropriate. Explain any damp-building exposure without assuming it is the cause. Symptoms to discuss may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe headaches
- Dizziness
- Eye irritations
Seek urgent care for severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing. For other persistent concerns, arrange a medical assessment. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and your health history.
Also address moisture in the building. Medical care and property cleanup serve different purposes, and neither replaces the other.
How to Clean Mold Safely
Cleaning mold can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be a scary one. The most important thing to remember is to follow safety precautions and always wear protective gear such as:
- Nonporous gloves
- Eye protection
- Appropriate respiratory protection, such as an N95 respirator
When cleaning away the mold, use a non-ammonia detergent, wiping the area with a cloth or towel. Dry the surface fully. Seek professional advice for hidden growth or materials that cannot be cleaned.
If these areas need more attention or there is a larger patch of mold, contact an expert in mold removal who can use specific techniques and treatments to remove the mold safely. Follow the EPA cleanup guidance. Porous materials may need removal, and moisture repair is essential.
How to Spot Mold in the Home
Spotting the presence of mold in the home can be tricky but it’s essential if you want to keep your family safe and healthy. Thankfully, there are a few common signs to look out for.
A musty odor is one of the biggest indicators that mold might be present as this is usually due to moisture in the air. Similarly, water stains or discoloration on walls and ceilings could mean that there is excess humidity which allows mold to thrive. Additionally, large amounts of condensation on windows can also provide ideal conditions for mold growth so be sure to check areas that may not always get adequate ventilation.
If you spot these signs, it’s best to take immediate action and contact a professional mold assessor who can take steps to mitigate any risks associated with mold infestations.
Common Areas Around the House Where Mold Grows
Mold can grow in many parts of your home if given the chance. It loves damp, humid areas like bathrooms and basements, as well as:
- Behind wallpaper
- Under carpets
- Inside air ducts
Some appliances are also prone to mold growth, such as air conditioners and dehumidifiers. It’s a good idea to check for mold in these areas regularly, as well as any other area where water and moisture can accumulate, such as near windows or around pipes.
Finally, check your kitchen appliances regularly. Some fridges and dishwashers trap moisture, making them prime locations for mold growth. Be sure to check any areas that tend to stay wet and dry them immediately if you find any mold.
Are You Sick From Mold? Get Help Today
Mold is a serious issue that can cause health risks if not treated properly. When you find suspected growth at home, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family from its potential dangers.
For concerns about getting sick from mold, don’t delay seeing your family doctor.
However, treating the source of the problem is equally as important. Contact Suncoast Mold & Restoration right away for professional help in identifying and cleaning up the mold in your home safely and effectively.