Mold can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. It is unsightly and smelly and can cause health issues if not promptly resolved. While mold can grow almost anywhere, it is prevalent in areas with poor ventilation or high humidity levels, such as:
- Bathrooms
- Basements
- Kitchens
The presence of water damage can also increase the risk of mold growth. In this blog post, we will discuss how water damage can lead to mold growth and its potential health implications.
What Causes Mold?
Mold spores are everywhere, so they need an environment conducive to their growth to flourish; this environment tends to be moist or wet. Therefore, when you have a water leak or flood in your home, it creates an ideal situation for mold growth.
If you don't take steps to prevent and eliminate any source of moisture from your home, then you could have a significant mold problem on your hands.
Health Issues Caused By Mold
Minor Health Issues
Unfortunately, mold can have severe impacts on our health, even if it's just in small doses. Most people may think of coughing and sneezing when they hear mold, but the "minor" mold reactions go far beyond that.
These reactions are primarily caused by mold toxins (mycotoxins), which can cause rashes and irritation on skin contact. Itchy eyes, dry coughs, congestion, headaches, and even wheezing can also be caused by mold exposure.
Major Health Issues
Mold is known to cause many physical health issues, namely respiratory illnesses and even potential cancer risks. Beyond physical concerns, mold can also bring about neurological issues like personality or cognitive functioning changes.
Depending on the mold exposure level, these symptoms vary from person to person, so take time to identify mold early on if you find it in your home. Whether it's through musty smells or visible patches of mold, don't let mold take the reins on your health - be proactive about testing for mold growth if something seems off.
How to Prevent Mold Growth
To prevent these health issues caused by mold growth, it's important to act quickly when water damage occurs in your home. Professional restoration experts will know how to properly assess the severity of the situation and take preventative measures, such as:
- Removing wet insulation
- Installing sump pumps
- Installing dehumidifiers
Additionally, regular inspections are beneficial because they allow you to catch any signs of moisture before they become a more significant issue down the road.
If you have water damage and suspect mold in your home, our experts at DryZone are here to help! Contact us today. (239) 360-5207