Mold is a toxic substance that can be found in so many places outside and inside of the home. It is a kind of fungus that will break down dead materials and in turn will give back nutrients to the environment. It will feed off of plants, wood, paper, dirt, food, and animal matter. It will spread quickly by releasing tiny spores that are hard to see and are carried through the air.
The basement, laundry room, and trash cans are the most vulnerable to attacks of mold. It might be hard to see them in these places – but you should pick out a distinct odor. Mold can also grow on food that has rotted. You can spot it by looking for fuzzy green spots. Some types of molds will sprout roots and burrow within the food where you cannot see it.
Breathing in mold is bad for the body and can make it difficult for you to breathe. This is especially true for people who suffer from asthma or other respiratory conditions. For some people the effects of mold are worse because they have an allergy to it.
Mold Allergy Symptoms
Wheezing
Itchy, watery eyes
Rash
Hives
Runny, stuffy nose
Preventing Exposure
If you know that you suffer from mold allergy than it is important to avoid any exposure to it whenever possible. For most people it is difficult to avoid all exposure – but you can take steps to try. Check any food you eat to make sure that it has not gone bad. Do not smell them because if there is mold you will breath in the spores and trigger an allergic reaction.
Do not leave wet clothes, papers, or boxes lying around the home. Throw away any paper and boxes immediately. Any wet clothes should be cleaned and dried right away. Do not handle them if they have been sitting out for a whole day.
If your basement is prone to leaking than you should have it inspected for mold. Any leak – no matter who small it might be – is a breeding ground for mold. Hire someone to fix the leak and clean out the mold.