What is Mold and Mildew?
Mold and mildew are fungi - simple microscopic organisms that thrive in dark moist environments. In the natural environment they are necessary part of life; without them, organic materials would not decay and certain aspects of soil enrichment could not occur. Their ability to break down organic material is what creates problems for homeowners.
How long does it take to get mold and mildew
Mold and mildew colonies, can start to grow on a dark- damp surface within 48 hours. They reproduce by spores - tiny, lightweight “seeds”- that travel through the air. Molds digest organic material, eventually destroying the material they grow on, and then spread to destroy adjacent organic material. In addition to the damage molds can cause to homes, they can also cause mild to severe health problems.
Health effects of mold and mildew
While we are all exposed to many kinds of molds and mildew both inside and outside our homes. The exposure is greater in damp, wet conditions, especially when timely drying out do not have a chance to occur.
Of the thousands of molds that exist, some are known allergens (aggravating or causing skin, eye, and respiratory problems), and a few molds produce harmful mycotoxins (toxic chemical products produced by fungi ) that can cause serious problems. But all molds, in the right conditions and high enough concentrations, are capable of adversely affecting human health.
The potential for health problems occurs when people inhale large quantities of the airborne mold spores. For some people, however, a relatively small number of mold spores can cause health problems. Infants, children, immune-compromised patients, pregnant women, individuals with existing respiratory conditions, and the elderly are at higher risks for adverse health effects from mold.
Typical symptoms reported from mold exposure include:
- Respiratory problems -wheezing, asthma attacks, etc.
- Nasal and sinus congestion or dry, hacking cough
- Eye irritation - burning, watery, redness
- Nose or throat irritation -sneezing fits, bloody noses
- Skin irritations -rashes or hives
- Nervous system -headaches, memory loss, mood changes
- Aches and pains
The more serious health problems have been associated with the toxic black mold, Stachybotrys atra. The mold is greenish-black and slimy, resembling tar or black paint. Stachybotrys typically grows only on repeatedly wetted materials that contain cellulose - from paper to ceiling tiles, and any kind of wood.
Prevention of Mold and mildew
By far the best solution for the problem of mold and mildew is prevention. GoldenRod dehumidifiers work proactively to keep enclosures dry and free from humidity, not allowing mold and mildew colonies to develop.
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