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American Mold Masters Inc. uses the Vapor
Clean TR6 for
contained mold removal
Effects of Mold
In addition to damaging furnishings, molds can trigger an immunity response
among vulnerable populations, particularly those commonly susceptible to
pollen and dust allergies, individuals with compromised immune systems and
those with underlying lung disease. Common airborne molds found indoors
include Alternaria, Penicillium, Cladosporium and Aspergillus, all of which
may cause allergic reactions, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation
of America (AAFA). Some molds, such as the greenish-black Stachybotrys
chartarum, have the potential to produce toxic chemicals, or myotoxins,
which can induce more serious symptoms, including coughing, nasal
stuffiness, irritated eyes and throat, skin rashes
and diarrhea, notes the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI).
Is Your Child in Danger?
Household Mold
It is not uncommon to find mold in everyday households, in fact, many
households function quite well with the existence of mold, but this is not
to say that parents should turn a blind eye to the existence of mold. Mold
comes in many forms and can cause a multitude of problems. The variation of
toxicity is what determines the danger of the exposure, especially to
children, as they are most susceptible to health problems. Problems with
mold can include allergies, infections, irritations, and toxic problems.
Each of these can easily affect a growing child, and since your child is
still in its developing state, he or she is more susceptible to adverse side
effects. This means that as a parent, one has to be very aware to the risks
and problems presented by exposure to mold, and act accordingly.
Allergies to Mold
Allergies to mold are the easiest to deal with, as there are medicines and
treatments specially formulated to deal with allergens. If serious allergic
reactions are present however, it will be a priority to find and exterminate
as much of the mold present as possible. Infection from mold is rare to
find, since there are very few strains of mold that can infect humans, but
it is possible. Patients who contract these rare infections are found to be
susceptible to the infection in the first place. Other reactions to mold,
such as irritations and odor reactions yield the typical stuffiness, nasal
problems, and skin irritations that can be part of an allergic reaction.
Is Mold Toxic?
Toxic problems are the most serious reaction to mold spores. This means a
toxic reaction occurs to the patient when he or she comes in close contact
with the mold spore. This can happen out of the blue, and is not a
predictable thing. Varying problems can result, but all are serious.
Anything from respiratory problems to digestive problems to problems with
the nervous system can occur.
Any of these conditions can easily hurt your child, so it is very important
to get your child tested for allergies and maintain your home to eliminate
as much mold as possible. Prevention is the key. There are a few ways to
minimize mold growth in your home. Make sure the humidity level in your home
never falls below 40% and never rises past 60%, and during the humid summer
months, use a dehumidifier to not only diminish the amount of mold, but to
aid your child�s breathing. Adding mold inhibitors to your paint will also
help, and avoid carpeting bathrooms and basements. Always, ALWAYS clean your
bathroom for mold as well as for bacteria, and never leave soaked carpets
and upholstery in place after drying. Mold will grow and flourish on these
surfaces. Taking focused steps like these will safeguard your child to the
fullest from toxic mold, and will help you sleep that much better.
* Keep indoor humidity low. Experts recommend a range between 30 - 60
percent relative humidity.
* When water leaks or spills occur indoors, take action immediately.
Generally, it takes 24-48 hours before mold will begin growing, so the
faster the area is cleaned and the problem fixed, the better.
* Regularly repair and clean roof gutters.
* Keep air-conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines flowing
properly.
* Increase ventilation and air temperature to prevent condensation.
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