How Mold Can Affect Your Family’s Long-Term Health
Mold can have a negative health effect on all people, but there are certain age groups and people with preexisting conditions who should take extra precautions. Untreated mold in the homes of people who may be affected is a serious problem. CLEAR Restoration offers mold inspections and remediations for homeowners in Baton Rouge, so your whole family is protected from the harmful effects of mold.
Who is More Likely to Be Affected and Develop Mold Health Problems?
Children, the elderly, and people with immune and lung diseases have the highest risk of developing severe health problems when in the presence of mold for a prolonged period of time. With indoor mold exposure, all people are at risk of having allergies that could develop into something more serious later in life. Typical symptoms of mold exposure are similar to allergy symptoms, which include sneezing, eye irritation, sore throat, congestion, skin rash, and headaches.
Infants and Children
The Institute of Medicine (IOM) found some evidence linking indoor mold exposure and respiratory issues in children who were otherwise healthy. Research revealed that children exposed to indoor mold had developed shortness of breath or asthma. Other studies suggest a possible link between the development of asthma in children and mold exposure, particularly in children who may have a genetic susceptibility to asthma.
Infants living in a home infested with mold are advised to immediately move out of the home and visit a doctor. Babies breathing in mold are more likely to develop asthma and other breathing problems as they get older.
Elderly
As a person ages, their lung tissue and ability to breathe weakens. Age weakens lung function and mold exposure can help speed this process. If an elderly person is living or has been living in a home with mold, they are more likely to develop hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This disease, although uncommon, creates recurring flu-like symptoms. The elderly should regularly check for mold growth in their home and quickly remove any mold found.
People with Compromised Immune Systems or Lung Disease
The CDC reports that people with compromised immune systems or lung disease have the potential to contract serious infections in their lungs when they’re exposed to mold. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis also affects people with weakened immune systems. People with a comprised immune system are advised to stay away from sources of mold growth.
Lung disease is considered any issue with a person’s lungs that prevents them from working properly. A few of the most common lung diseases are asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia. Anyone with these lung problems are putting themselves at even more risk for allergy-like symptoms or a worsening lung condition in the presence of mold.
Precautions to Take to Avoid Mold Health Problems
- Keep indoor humidity levels between 30 and 50 percent, according to the EPA
- Repair leaks
- Increase air movement and ventilation by installing exhaust fans and opening doors and windows
- Keep appliance drip pans clean
- Regularly clean areas where mold is likely to grow
- Visit a doctor if allergies worsen
If you are concerned about the possible long-term health problems mold exposure can do to your Baton Rouge family, call CLEAR Restoration today to conduct a mold inspection.
