What is Black Mold?
No homeowner wants black mold, but what is it? Black mold (also known as Stachybotrys) grows in moist environments and is most commonly found in areas where condensation has collected or near untreated puddles inside. Spores enter the home by windows, other entrances and can also be tracked on personal items and clothing. Although most fungus around your home aren't dangerous, black mold leads to illness if neglected.Health Effects of Black Mold
Black mold is a toxic mold with airborne toxins. The most common symptoms include chronic sneezing, eye, nose and throat irritation and rashes. Other symptoms include chronic fatigue and persistent headaches. Nausea, vomiting and bleeding in the lungs and nose are seen in the most severe cases of long term exposure.About Mold
Mold quickly spread across walls, floors and ceilings. Whenever your home suffers water damage, you should have a professional check the walls for mold infestations. They can go ignored for weeks, and then spring up essentially overnight. Once mold produces colonies in your property, it quickly grows and releases toxins that make life difficult for residents:- Mold emits a pungent, musty scent that stops rooms from smelling fresh.
- Mold wreaks havoc on allergy-sensitive people, as well as those with asthma, making symptoms flare up.
- A black mold infestation can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.
- Mold toxins can trigger long-lasting inflammation and ongoing cold-like symptoms.
- People with weakened immune systems can get systemic infections of the lungs, skin, or digestive tract.
- In rare cases, mold toxins can cause neurological concerns or even death.
- The more extended the exposure, the more severe the danger.