Activities at home can result in moisture indoors and mold growth, whether the weather is cold and damp or warm and humid.
It is possible for mold to grow on walls, clothes, books, toys, and even CDs. As a result, prized possessions can become rotten relics fit only for the bin.
But is it a health hazard as well? Mold can have what effects on a person’s body?
The purpose of this article is to explain what mold is, why it grows, and how to stop it from spreading.
Mold: what is it?
Molds are a form of fungus. It can occur both indoors and outdoors, and there are many types.
Mold produces spores that spread through the air. All indoor environments contain mold spores. It is impossible to prevent mold spores, and they can persist even in conditions in which mold is not able to grow.
Moisture and warmth are conducive to mold spore growth, so when they land on a damp surface, they begin to grow.
A variety of surfaces can support mold growth, such as fabric, paper, wood, glass, and plastic. In the course of growing, they may digest the material they are growing on.
Mold types
The number of types of mold is unknown, but experts estimate that there may be 300,000 or more types. There are some that are more likely to appear in the home than others.
These are some of the most common molds found indoors:
Alternaria: Found indoors in damp places, such as showers and leaky sinks.
Aspergillus: This is a common indoor fungus found in dust, powdery food, and building materials.
Penicillium: Usually found on water-damaged materials. There is often a blue or green tint to it.
Molds come in a variety of shapes and textures. Surfaces can be discolored or stained by them, and they can be white, black, yellow, blue, or green.
Molds may also have a velvety, fuzzy, or rough appearance depending on their type and location.
How does mold get into a house?
There are mold spores everywhere, indoors and outdoors, but they can’t be seen by the naked eye.
Home-invading spores include:
Through the air: Windows, doorways, and ventilation systems can let them inside.
Objects such as clothing, shoes, and pets can become vehicles by attaching themselves to them.
The spores of mold can only flourish if they land in conditions that are conducive to growth, such as moisture and nutrients. As long as the spores are not in an environment that is suitable, they do not usually develop or pose a problem.
Places where mold often appears include:
- Areas affected by leaks and flooding
- Condensation-prone windows
- Places without air circulation, such as behind closet doors
- The most conducive environment for mold growth is wet cellulose materials.
Examples include:
- Wallpaper and paper products
- cardboard
- ceiling tiles
- wood products
- insulation materials
- upholstery and other fabrics
There is usually visible mold growth, and it often gives off a musty odor. Household items can be damaged, and it can also affect health.
Health and mold
People with allergies, existing respiratory conditions, or weakened immune systems are more likely to be affected by mold.
Problems breathing
In addition to spores, cells, and fragments, mold produces unstable organic compounds. They can cause allergies, irritability, and mycotoxins. The effects of some of these substances can be harmful, especially to individuals who are sensitive to them.
Additionally, dampness causes materials to breakdown, which increases the amount of dust in the air.
People with breathing problems, asthma, or chronic lung conditions may experience irritation of the lungs, nose, and throat from these particles.
Allergy
If you have a high sensitivity to mold or an allergy to mold particles, you may react to them.
There are many similarities between mold allergies and other allergies, such as hay fever and seasonal allergies. The upper respiratory tract can also be affected by airborne substances.
Symptoms include:
- a blocked or runny nose
- an itchy nose
- an itchy throat
- sneezing
- watery eyes
When mold is present in the environment, people with asthma and mold allergies are more likely to have asthma attacks.
The more dust there is, the more dust mites will be present, which can lead to allergic reactions in some people.
Aspergillosis
Molds, such as Aspergillus, can cause serious health problems, such as aspergillosis.
A person with a weakened immune system or an existing lung condition may have a severe reaction to inhaling the spores of this fungus.
The following are the main types of aspergillosis:
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA): This can affect the lungs and cause breathing difficulties.
Allergic aspergillus sinusitis: Can cause a headache and affects the nose.
Aspergilloma, or fungus ball: Symptoms include coughing up blood and breathing difficulties.
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis: It causes breathing problems, a cough, and weight loss.
Other conditions
Mold can also trigger the growth of bacteria and microbes. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exposure to these bacteria can trigger an inflammatory response.
In addition, mold and its microbial agents may increase bronchial and fungal infections, according to the WHO.
There is some evidence that it might lead to:
- hypersensitivity pneumonitis
- bronchitis
- allergic alveolitis
- chronic rhinosinusitis
- allergic fungal sinusitis
- lower respiratory tract problems in previously healthy children
Evidence from the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that people experiencing these symptoms after spending time in an environment with mold:
- skin and eye irritation
- wheezing
- fever
- fatigue
- nausea
- headache
- insomnia
- mucous membrane irritation
- sick-building syndrome
The following factors contribute to the likelihood of mold causing health problems:
- A person’s respiratory or immune system
- The amount of mold present
Some people can get bronchitis from mold. Is it possible to treat bronchitis at home?
Protection and prevention
In order to prevent mold from growing indoors, moisture must be controlled. A well-ventilated and clean home is also essential.
The following factors contribute to home humidity:
- People’s and pets’ breath
- Washing and cooking with water
- On rainy or humid days, there is moisture in the air
- Leaks of water
- Buildings with tightly sealed windows and doors
Humidity reduction
Moisture and mold can be reduced by:
- In the event of a leak or spill, act quickly
- Using a dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity
- When possible, open the windows to let the air circulate
- Cooking with extractor fans to remove moisture
- Avoiding indoor activities that produce moisture, such as drying clothes or heating with kerosene
- Before storing fabrics, make sure they are thoroughly dry
- Regularly emptying and airing rarely used drawers and closets
- Clean surfaces regularly so that mold doesn’t grow on them
- When cleaning the bathroom, use mold-killing products
- In bathrooms and basements, avoid laying carpets
- Keeping buildings, facilities, gutters, and drains leak-free
Mold cannot always be prevented, but regular cleaning and wiping can reduce the likelihood of it appearing or getting worse.
Removing mold
Mold can be removed using a number of commercial products.
In order to remove mold or clean it:
Surfaces should be cleaned with a suitable commercial product, soap and water, or heavily diluted bleach solutions. To prevent mold from recurring, dry the surfaces after use.
Check porous surfaces regularly to see if mold has returned, as it can infiltrate these materials. In the event that mold continues to appear on these items, consider disposing of them.
Visit your local hardware store for antifungal paints and other products that can prevent mold growth.
If there are large areas of mold, you should contact a professional.
If you suspect mold is causing health problems, consult a doctor.
Mold-fighting items can be purchased online.
These include:
- dehumidifiers
- humidity gauges
- cleaning and other products
Outlook
It is inevitable that indoor environments contain some mold spores, but most people are not affected by them.
Nevertheless, people with compromised immune systems may be at greater risk of illness, especially lung problems, if the environment is contaminated with mold spores and mold. Some people may experience allergic reactions.
It is best to keep an indoor area clean, dry, and well ventilated in order to prevent mold growth.
Health care providers should be contacted if you have concerns about mold in your home, your workplace, or an educational setting.