Respiratory Problems Caused by Mold are Deadly

Respiratory problems caused by mold should always be taken seriously. If you are suffering from any health issue because you were exposed to mold, mildew, or any of that species, you should see a doctor right away. Mold is one of the most hazardous things that you can have in your home, office, or just about anywhere. 

Some of the conditions that you may develop when mold is present in your surroundings are chronic headaches, coughing, eye irritation, and skin allergies. But some health issues, such as asthma, may get out of hand and even lead to death. That is why it is essential to stay on top of things and keep your environment clean.

Also, keep in mind that people have different sensitivity levels to mold. Individuals who are more sensitive are prone to developing more allergies and suffering from severe reactions. Their concern may start with simple nasal stuffiness and later on progress to obstructive lung disease. 

You have to be extra careful with mold if you have a history of any respiratory problem. Some people tend to treat asthma very lightly, when, in fact, it can be really dangerous. Many people have already died from this condition. And most of the time, the attack happens very sudden that the person or the family does not have time to prepare.

If you are in a similar situation, checking up your home and office for any mold infestation is just as important as seeing your doctor on a regular basis. Always remember that mold formation is made possible by three things – moisture, organic compound for food, and the right temperature. If not dealt with right away, mold can spread like wildfire and become uncontrollable before you know it.  

Respiratory Problems Caused by Mold – What are the Symptoms?

Luckily, not everyone is born susceptible to mold allergies. But to those who are, every breathing day can be a lifetime battle. Why? Because molds are present anywhere! There are molds in your home, at school, in the office, at the mall, in the cafeteria, in your garden, and even inside your air conditioning unit. 

There are even molds outside that can cling to your clothes and rapidly spread from there. It may be impossible to eradicate mold completely, but what you can do is control the level of its infestation.  

But for those who are really allergic to mold will almost always react to its presence. Your immune system goes into a frenzy whenever you’re exposed to spores. You cough, sneeze, feel itchy, and all the other uncomfortable feelings. You wouldn’t understand where the uneasiness comes from because you were feeling well just a while ago. The severity of your allergic reaction also depends on the level of mold infestation in your environment.

Most of the time, mold allergies are linked to asthma because you will experience difficulty in breathing. You can tell if you’re having one because the symptoms are very similar to most respiratory allergies. For example, if you have allergic rhinitis caused by mold, your skin will be dry and scaly, you will have airway passage issues, wheezing, and more.

Also, keep in mind that signs will vary from one person to another. Some people may experience mild ones, while others may suffer severely. There are also individuals who have symptoms all year long while others at certain periods. It’s really a case-to-case basis, that’s why consulting your doctor is important. Your doctor will help you determine the factors that can trigger your allergy and of course, give you proper medication.

Respiratory Problems Caused by Mold are Associated with Asthma

As stated above, one of the most common symptoms of mold allergy is difficulty in breathing. That is why it is usually linked to asthma. What will happen is that the presence of mold will trigger your asthma symptoms. You will experience shortness of breath, watery eyes, sneezing, stuffy nose, etc. If these symptoms persist, it is highly recommended that you see your doctor right away.

Allergies surfaced when your immune system overreacts to something. The first time you inhaled mold spores from the air, your body labeled them as invaders and therefore produced special antibodies to fight them. 

Your immune system will continue to react to these ‘invaders’ and will eventually release a substance called histamine. The most common effects of this substance include itchiness, irritated eyes, and wheezing – the usual symptoms of an asthma attack.

Respiratory Problems Caused by Mold are Not All the Same

Molds can come from and grow in all places. It can be indoors such as the living room or outdoor like the football field. As long as the area is damp, has water, and humid, the formation of mold will be unstoppable.

The good news though is that not all molds can cause allergic reactions. And if you have an allergic reaction to one species, it doesn’t mean that you will also react to a different one. The most popular molds that are known to cause allergies are Cladosporium, Alternaria, aspergillus, and penicillium. To see if you’re allergic to any of these, you have to consult your doctor and undergo some laboratory tests.

Also, allergies to mold can either be inherited or developed because of your environment. And if it’s already existing, there is a possibility that it can get worse over time. If your family has a history of asthma or if someone from your clan has suffered from a mold allergy, it is likely that you will also have it. If it skips your time, then it may be passed on to one of your offspring.

People who do not have a history of either asthma or mold allergy may have acquired it from the place they work or live. Examples of the occupations that can put you to high mold risk are farming, dairy work, winemaking, furniture repair, carpentry, baking, and more. If you work or live anywhere where the humidity level is higher than 50 percent, then it is not impossible for you to develop mold allergies or any respiratory problem related to it.

Remember that mold can grow just about everywhere, especially when there is moist and warmth. The most common places where mold infestation is present are basements, bathrooms, wine cellars, and anywhere that has soap-coated grout or damp surfaces. Mold formation also happens in carpets, which is why you should also buy a vacuum if you own one.

Places Where Respiratory Problems Caused by Mold are Imminent

Now that you know how dangerous mold can be, especially to your respiratory system, you may want to make a mental note on the places that you should avoid going to. Although mold can be anywhere, you can at least avoid the areas where the infestation is high and harmful. 

Areas that have excess moisture and dampness are obviously a no-no. If you have leaky pipes, water seepage, or if your house or office has gone through flood damage, you have to have it fixed and checked by a professional.