What is Mold?

Molds are microscopic organisms found virtually everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Mold growths can be seen in many shapes and sizes. Colors can range from white to orange to black. There are also many distinct textures flat, raised, fussy, hairy and so on. Molds produce spores, which are very tiny, and lightweight, they can be detached by airflow, vacuuming or just by walking on carpet. Molds release millions of these spores, which can themselves start a mold growth or colony. All they need is a source of moisture and a place to grow.

Why is mold growing in my home?

Molds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.

Where is mold found?

Everywhere. Mold needs water to grow, therefore mold is most commonly found in water-damaged areas. Most common places to look for mold in your home:

• Basements
• Attics
• Crawl Spaces
• Bathrooms

Can mold cause health problems?

Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins).

Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people. Symptoms other than the allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling mold.

Health Symptoms of Mold

The most common predominant health symptoms that indicate you or a family member may be suffering from allergy to mold, animal dander, or dust – or having asthma triggered by mold exposure includes:

• Memory loss or memory difficulties/Alzheimer-like symptoms.
• Difficulty breathing
• Sinus congestion and sinus problems
• Hives, skin rashes/redness
• Itching of the nose, mouth, eyes, throat, skin or any area
• Seizures
• Sneezing fits (more than three sneezes in a row, happening often)
• Coughing and resulting sore lungs/chest from excessive coughing
• Coughing up blood
• Chronic, excessive, or continued fatigue
• Bleeding lungs
• Redness of the sclera (white of your eyes)
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

How much mold can make me sick?

It depends! For some people, a relatively small number of mold spores can cause health problems. For other people, it may take many more. The basic rule is, if you can see or smell it, take steps to eliminate the excess moisture, and to cleanup and remove the mold.

If mold is a problem in your home, you should clean up the mold promptly. It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.