Thursday, July 29, 2021

Black Mold - A Potentially Serious Risk to Health

Black mold is a dangerous fungus that can harmful to both your home and your health. Because it is often hard to determine the specific genus of mold, it is best to treat all contaminated areas carefully and safely. Here is some of the most important information to arm yourself with, when it comes to mold removal and your health.


Indoor molds are surfacing as one of the 21st century's first

biological wars - they occur in homes, apartments, schools, workplaces

and more. Growing concern over indoor air quality, combined with

awareness through the media about several high profile mold

infestations, have alerted the public to the potential health risk

associated with molds. Approximately 100 species of mold are toxic, and

about 15 are known to cause negative health effects in humans as well as

animals.

Currently the label of "Black Mold" and its association

with toxins is causing uncertainty, panic, fear, litigation, questions

and concerns. The toxins produced by molds are called mycotoxins. It is

need of the hour that the seriousness of mold infestations should be

understood. Myths must be put to rest, and the truth must be faced with

optimism to eradicate indoor mold, and to reduce the number of spores in

an infested dwelling.

Black mold is the notorious type of fungi,

which grows on surfaces in a powdery form. It grows in moist environment

and moderate temperature. They are hazardous, because they can grow on

walls, clothes, shoes, food, woodwork, and even in air conditioners.

Humidity is a vital factor for the growth of mold and if it is

restricted, molds can be controlled.

Black mold is considered

dangerous for health because it releases (VOC) Volatile Organic

Compounds, while degrading the surface for its own nutrition. A long

term exposure to High Volatile Compounds, can severely damage the

respiratory and central nervous system and cause throat irritation.

Some

of the symptoms associated with black mold exposure and poisoning

include; difficulty in breathing, headache, persistent coughing, skin

rashes, nausea and high level or prolonged exposure can also lead to

infertility of the person exposed.

Mold can be controlled by

making the environment unfavorable for its growth and survival. Lack of

moisture can keep mold at bay; be vigilant in ensuring there is no water

leakage, broken water pipeline or condensation problem. Air

conditioners and air ventilation system not cleaned regularly, can

become the hub for mold, and are an excellent mode for its dispersal

throughout the house. They should be cleaned regularly. Bathrooms are

most prone to molds. Bleach should be used to wash the tiles and

appliances to prevent mold growth. Taking such preventive

Exposure

to molds though dangerous, can be avoided. Use safety measures to

ensure moisture control indoors, and proper cleaning can restrain it.

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