Have You Been Experiencing Respiratory Pain? You May Be Getting Sick From Mold.

Does your chest hurt or feel tight when you breathe deeply? If you feel like you have trouble breathing or have been sick for a long period of time without any real answers as to why, there is a good chance your home could have a mold problem. The growth of mold in your home over a long period of time can have pretty detrimental effects to your health. It can cause a variety of health issues, including trouble breathing, cough, wheezing, itchy eyes and more.

Black mold often thrives in areas that have high levels of humidity and moisture. Often times, black mold might be under a surface for a long period of time before making its way through to the visible eye. You should contact a mold remediation company at the first sign of mold, as you will want to quickly determine the type of mold it is and how extensive the damage is.

Black mold poisoning is a form of mycotoxicosis which becomes prevalent when a person breathes in too many mycotoxins over an extended period of time. The symptoms can vary depending on the person and their amount of exposure, but typically tend to appear similar to the symptoms of the flu or common cold along with skin irritation. Less common symptoms can be fever, headaches or serious lung infections. Black mold exposure can worsen the symptoms of other respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD or seasonal allergies. Black mold is more harmful to children as their immune systems might not be fully developed yet.

In order to diagnose mold poisoning, you might need a blood test or a skin prick test. The treatment for mold exposure can vary depending on how severe your symptoms are. Anti-fungal drugs, over-the-counter medications, nasal sprays, or other measures to support breathing can be provided in order to treat any symptoms. Mold poisoning is not something anyone should take lightly, and if you think you have been exposed for a period of time, call your doctor as soon as possible. If you're looking to contact a mold removal company to come and inspect your home, call or fill out the form to get started.

How to Prevent Black Mold Growth in Your Home

Preventing black mold growth is essential to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for you and your family. By taking proactive measures, you can avoid the costly and hazardous effects of mold infestation. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Control Moisture and Humidity Levels

Mold thrives in damp and humid environments. Use dehumidifiers in areas prone to moisture, such as basements and bathrooms, to keep humidity levels between 30–50%. Fix any leaks in plumbing, roofs, or windows promptly to prevent water from seeping into your home.

2. Improve Ventilation

Ensure that areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms have proper ventilation to reduce moisture accumulation. Use exhaust fans or open windows during activities like cooking or showering to circulate air.

3. Conduct Regular Inspections

Check your home periodically for signs of mold, especially in hidden areas like behind wallpaper, under carpets, or inside HVAC systems. Early detection is key to minimizing damage and health risks.

4. Clean and Maintain Your HVAC System

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can contribute to mold growth if not maintained properly. Schedule regular cleanings and replace filters often to ensure clean airflow and prevent mold spores from spreading.

5. Address Flooding or Water Damage Immediately

If your home has experienced flooding or water damage, act quickly to dry out the area. Remove wet items, and use fans or dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process. Mold can begin to grow within 24–48 hours in wet conditions.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of black mold developing in your home. If you suspect mold or want professional assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to BioClean to assess and address the problem effectively.