How Mold Can Affect Your Health

Black mold has gotten quite a reputation for being hazardous to your health — and for good reason. But black, or toxic, mold isn’t the only type of mold you need to be cautious of. In reality, all mold, no matter what type or how much, is dangerous to your health.

Mold and Your Health

People who are sensitive to mold may experience congestion, throat irritation, coughing, wheezing, and eye irritation. Those with a mold allergy may have more severe symptoms, like difficulty breathing and sever throat, eye, and skin irritation.   

People who are immunocompromised or have asthma are also more likely to be negatively affected by mold spores. One study found that people with obstructive lung disease were more likely to get a serious lung infection after being exposed to mold.

But mold symptoms are not just related to your respiratory system. Other symptoms include:

• Muscle and joint pain.
• Headaches or memory loss.
• Anxiety or depression.
• A compromised immune system.
• Fatigue.
• Gastrointestinal problems.

Though one, or more, of these symptoms does not guarantee that you have mold in your house, you should speak to your doctor right away, and consider having your house professionally inspected and cleaned.

Controlling Mold

• Control your home’s humidity levels with a humidifier in the winter and a dehumidifier in the summer.
• Fix any leaking pipes or windows the moment you notice them.
• If you experience a flood, make sure the affected room is completely dry and clean before moving furniture and other large objects back in.
• Ventilate your shower and kitchen well.
• Add mold inhibitors to your paint before you paint a room.
• Have your home professionally inspected and cleaned of any mold or mildew spores.

GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration offers professional attic cleaning and mold removal services to homes across Long Island. If you live in Nassau County or Suffolk County, call us to get started with a free estimate at (631) 940-8100.