Potential Health Effects Associated With Water Damage

 

Whether from a plumbing leak or a large-scale natural disaster, getting water damage in your home is dangerous and exhausting. While it has the potential to destroy parts of your house, such as its structure, water damage also poses a threat to your health. Any inhabitants living in your humble abode could be exposed to a high-risk environment!

Here are some of the potential dangers long-term water damage can bring to your health and how to clean up your home after a disaster:

Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew are notoriously known to grow in areas with flood water or water damage. Areas trapped by moisture are their favorite places to hide, but you’ll know if you have an invasion on your hands if you see mold spores, smell damp or odorous air, or have increased asthma and allergy issues.

Short-term exposure is most likely to cause occupants with allergies or asthma to feel symptoms more. Mold and mildew also cause sinus congestion, eye irritations, and nose and throat inflammation. Long-term exposure can often lead to shortness of breath and fevers — so needless to say, it should be dealt with right away!

Poor Indoor Air Quality

Allergy and asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly, are more likely to be susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality water damage can cause. While this is partially due to mold or mildew growth, it could also be the result of water contamination or damage to your HVAC system. If sick symptoms continue even after mold and mildew have been cleared out of your home, it may be time for an air duct cleaning.

 

Toxic Mold Growth

Mold can grow fast, and in spots we least expect. Often, toxic mold occurs when a flood-damaged area in your home has not been cleaned and disinfected properly. This type of mold is more cause for concern for your health, as it’s known to cause more serious respiratory issues, as well as insomnia, memory loss, inability to concentrate, and confusion.

Water Damage Evaluation in Suffolk County

At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we will test for water damage to ensure you and your family are safe after a rainstorm. If you suspect that there may be a problem in the home or building, call us to schedule your indoor evaluation at 631-940-8100.