Many molds are pretty harmless, but others, like black mold (also known as toxic mold), can be dangerous. Black mold is a type of fungi that grows on anything – from walls, wood, inside air conditioners, clothes, food,
Many molds are pretty harmless, but others, like black mold (also known as toxic mold), can be dangerous. Black mold is a type of fungi that grows on anything – from walls, wood, inside air conditioners, clothes, food, carpets, etc. – in humid/damp areas with very little light.
This article from Buzzle.com outlines the signs of Black Mold, symptoms of Black Mold poisoning and tips for controlling Black Mold.
What are the signs of Mold?
- Moisture on the surfaces: Mold loves moisture. It is one of the key components of mold growth.
- Stains on the wall: Yellowish stain, due to moisture, can greatly help initial mold growth. If you start to see greenish, blackish or brownish patches sprout up, that is probably mold.
- Odor: A musty odor almost always indicates mold growth.
- Respiratory system response in the people: If anyone in your houshold begins to develop respiratory problems (allergies, asthma, etc.), then in that case there is a possibility of high mold growth.
- Poisoning due to mold: Poisoning due to the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) formed by mold is one of the most prominent sign of potential mold growth.
Symptoms of black mold poisoning:
o Uneasiness in respiration
o Red eyes
o Development of rashes and hives on skin
o Memory loss
o In some cases, people experience bleeding in lungs
o Lack in concentration
o Problem caused due to irritation in mucous membranes
o Allergic reactions (such as itching of nose, runny nose etc.) of respiratory and/or nervous system etc
o Irregularity in blood pressure
o Damaged digestion and respiratory system
o Infections of urinary track, problems in urination etc.
o Pain in liver and other internal organs
o High level or prolonged exposure to mold can lead to infertility in the patient
How mold can be controlled? (Tips for controlling mold problem)
o Moisture is one of the most important factor for the growth of mold. By making it sure that the level of moisture is under check you can keep molds at bay. (Relative humidity i.e. RH can help in finding out when you need to dehumidify your building/house)
o If there is any water leakage/intrusion, pipe leak, roof leak, condensation problem etc; it should be prevented first.
o Ensure the air conditioners, HVAC systems, and air/ventilation ducts are clean. Normally mold formed in these systems are more dangerous as it easily escapes the human eye inspection.
o Bathrooms are the most prone places for mold formation and growth. The tiles, curtains and appliances inside the bathrooms should be properly cleaned/removed in order to avoid mold formation.
o If possible, use air purifiers to cleanse the air inside your house. Air purifiers can help in reducing the airborne particles of mold spores.
o Now a day, there are many paints/anti mold products available in market that can resist moisture and/or mold at certain level. Using such products can also help in prevention of mold.
Mold is nothing to play around with. If you think you have the early signs of mold, contact a professional mold remediation service as soon as possible. If you have any questions, contact Atlantic Environmental Solutions by calling 877-296-665 or click here today!
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