Although seemingly harmless, mold can create some pervasive and risky health situations. Specifically if toxic mold grows in your home or workplace you could be opening yourself up to significant harm. Of course, exposure to any quantities of mold spores can cause allergic reactions in most people. Seasonal allergy sufferers are proof of that, but under the right conditions, some mold species can actually generate molecular compounds called mycotoxins, which in larger amount or with constant exposure can be toxic for people and even animals. Stachybotrys chartarum is an example of this toxic black mold, which is greenish-black in color and although commonly found outside, it is often found in damp or flooded homes.
Exposure to toxic molds can prompt a variety of health concerns from those that are merely annoying, to those that can be life threatening. For example, it’s well known that mold exposure can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, including the upper breathing passages. These symptoms are typical of a consistent allergic reaction to molds. Toxic molds can cause toxic mold syndrome which can irritate the skin, as well as the cause breathing problems, depleted immune system response and some nervous system issues.
Additionally, some more pernicious toxic black molds can cause chronic infections in the sinuses or lungs and people with weaker immune systems like pregnant women, children, cancer patients and HIV patients can develop less common illnesses. Toxic mold is suspected of being a possible reason for the development of toxic mold syndrome, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) and also may be a key component of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). Finally, in some extreme cases, toxic mold may be a significant contributing factor towards death when combined with pre-existing and developed illnesses related to toxic mold.
These molds can grow indoors if there is excessive moisture in your home. Mold is not isolated to any part of your home of business location – it can grow behind the walls, under the floors, above and on ceiling tiles, inside air conditioning ducts and heating systems or anywhere there has been a spill or water damage
Preventative measures can be taken to prevent the development of toxic black mold. Problems like leaky roofs, poorly sealed window frames, broken or leaking pipes, poorly waterproofed foundations and bathrooms or kitchens with substandard plumbing must be addressed quickly and efficiently to prevent the growth of mold. In addition, improperly dried plastic mats, collapsible or portable pools, and any other outdoor equipment susceptible to moisture may provide an ideal growth environment for toxic mold.
If you are living in your own home, preventing toxic mold will benefit you financially as your home’s value would substantially decrease with the presence of toxic mold. If you live in an apartment building or home that you rent and there is toxic black mold present and your landlord or the building owner refuses to remove it, you may be able to find a toxic mold lawyer who can sue them to ensure that they correct the issue and take responsibility for any medical expenses you or your family incur because they have not curtailed this growing health risk. Toxic mold is a genuine health risk, so if you feel your health is being risked unnecessarily, then do something about it!