How Do You Know If Mold Is Making You Sick?

Mold exposure can affect anyone, even if there are no immediate symptoms. Some types of mold release substances called mycotoxins that can harm your health in the long run.

However, some people are more sensitive to the effects of mold, including:

• Young children
• Elderly people
• People with:
  • Seasonal allergies or allergic rhinitis
  • Chronic respiratory diseases (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, occupational lung disease)
  • Asthma
• People on immunosuppressant medications

Mold often emits a distinct musty smell and may be black or gray, but color or odor is not an indication of how dangerous it is. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), any visible mold growing inside the house is a potential health hazard and should be removed as soon as possible.

The CDC recommends regular inspection of your building for evidence of water damage and visible mold. When molds creep inside your house through vents, ducts, flooring, or furniture, they become a reason for worry.

The only way to prevent the growth of mold indoors is by controlling moisture levels:

• Use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months and to keep humidity levels between 30%-50%. Anything higher causes fungal spores to mature and mold to spread over the house.
• Fix leaky roofs, windows, and pipes as soon as possible to prevent mold from returning.
• Keep your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room well-ventilated.
• Avoid carpet since it tends to retain moisture and becomes an ideal breeding ground for mold. Once mold starts to grow in carpet, the only way to deal with the problem is to remove it completely.
• If the infestation is mild, use bleach or hydrogen peroxide to kill the mold.
• If the infestation is severe, consider using professional mold removal services. Mold removal professionals use antimicrobial solutions to kill the mold, then use a sealant to make treated areas more resistant to moisture.