Molds are a normal part of life. Unfortunately, there are molds that are common in houses and buildings. In fact, mold can start growing as fast as 24-48 hours after a water damage incident.
Black mold is an average type of mold homeowners see in their homes, but people often believe black mold causes severe health problems because it releases mycotoxins.
What does the research say about the extent of these health concerns? Let’s learn about the dangers of black mold and black mold remediation.
What is Black Mold?
Mold is a fungus. Black mold is from the mold species call Stachybotrys chartarum. Many different types of black mold fall into this category.
Black mold releases fungal spores that feed on household materials like drywall, carpet, insulation, and sub-flooring. It is prevalent in humid, warm, and damp areas.
Sometimes, but not always, black mold is toxic.
Is Black Mold Dangerous?
Contrary to popular belief, black mold doesn’t cause serious health problems like cancer or lung disease. However, that doesn’t mean you should skip your regular mold inspection.
There are still some risks of black mold. Depending on the level of exposure and your sensitivity level, you can experience different symptoms.
For mild mold exposure to those with regular functioning immune systems, the risks are not substantial.
Most symptoms are associated with a respiratory response, similar to that of an allergic reaction. Therefore, those with a history of allergies are likely to be more sensitive to black mold exposure.
If you have chronic coughing and sneezing, watery or red eyes, wheezing, or mucus membranes, there is a chance you have mold present in your home. With prolonged exposure, you may begin to experience rashes, chronic fatigue, and headaches.
Immunocompromised people will experience these symptoms but may also be at risk of fungal infections. Those with asthma or pre-existing lung problems are more prone to infection from black mold too.
The News on Mycotoxins
Indeed, black mold sometimes produces mycotoxins, which cause serious health concerns. These concerns include mental and neurological problems, respiratory problems like those mentioned above, and circulatory problems.
However, even though mycotoxins pose more of a severe health risk, most molds can produce mycotoxin. It is not a problem only associated with black mold.
Luckily, just because mold is present, it doesn’t mean it is producing mycotoxin. So, while mycotoxin is still one of the black mold dangers, it doesn’t mean that you will automatically get sick if it invades your home.
As long as you get rid of mold in the home upon detection, you should be safe.
Schedule Your Mold Removal
Although black mold doesn’t pose as serious health concerns as previously thought, it is still essential to regularly take mold prevention measures.
You can start by hiring professionals to conduct a mold inspection and testing at home. Air quality testing helps determine if there is black mold present. For mold remediation around Walton County, Florida, contact us at D’Pure today.
