Mold Sickness And How Can It Be Controlled?

Molds are micro-organisms that are visibly present on the surfaces and undetectably present in the air in the microscopic form. Molds are the sticky, soft substances that are usually found in damp and humid areas. These fungi have the capability to thrive and multiply as mammoths. Molds secrete a perilous substance known as mold spores. The exposure to these molds for long duration adversely affects human health. The inhalation of these spores, metabolites (volatile organic compounds) or fragments leads to infection, allergic reactions and toxicity.  It directly impacts the immune system, liver, brain, kidneys and nervous system. Infants, children, people with weak immune system, pregnant women and elderly are the worst victims of mold sickness. All these facts should answer the question – what is mold sickness?

What are the mold sickness warning signs?

Mold sickness comes with some distinct signs and it is always advisable to seek medical assistance immediately as if ignored it may lead to severe health issues. Following are some of the warning signs of mold sickness that should be addressed immediately -

1. Allergies: Development of allergies is one of the most common signs of mold sickness. If there are untreated molds in your home then the members of your family are at a great risk of various health issues including allergic reactions.
2. Infections: The infections are the consequences of toxic mold. They are caused by pathogens such as aspergillus, fumigatus and histoplasma.
3. Digestive Illness: The metabolism in our body goes haywire due to mold sickness. Vomiting, diarrhea and internal bleeding are some of the major signs of digestive problems associated with mold sickness. The body fails to excrete the waste properly and thus the entire digestion system suffers.
4. Reproductive Problems: During complicated pregnancies, knowing what is mold sickness helps a great deal. The advanced signs of mold sickness pose fertility issues in some people because of the hormonal imbalances caused within the body. Mold sickness prevents women from having a healthy pregnancy.
5. Respiratory Illness: Air borne microscopic molds present in our environment are very dangerous. The breathing in of mycotoxins present in mold spores causes respiratory and lung related problems. It commences with stuffy nose but if the warning signals are ignored then it may ultimately lead to critical diseases.

What is mold sickness control method?

The best way to treat the disease is to ensure prevention. The following tips help to control the disease:

1. Keep checking the moisture levels and dehumidifying your/home once in a while. Relative humidity (RH) measuring instrument can be used to determine the humidity levels and dehumidifiers can be used to maintain the optimum level.
2. The roof leak, water leakage and condensation problems should be prevented.
3. Cleanliness of tiles, curtains, ventilation ducts and appliances is crucial for mold prevention.
4. Usage of air purification or filtration system reduces the microscopic air borne mold spores.
5. Anti mold products available in the market help resist moisture and prevent the disease.

Mold sickness symptoms (headache, rashes, eyes watering, nausea and vomiting) are very similar to other diseases such as sinus infections, asthma, fatigue and chronic lung infection. Therefore its diagnosis may be difficult at the onset. In order to prevent and cure this disease it is first important to know – what is mold sickness? Awareness about its signs, symptoms, risk involved, control measures and medical help available is the solution to this fast spreading health hazard.