Mold: An Unseen Indoor Air Pollutant?

Mold is a type of fungus that can be found everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. While it is not usually a problem when found outdoors, mold can become an indoor air pollutant when it starts growing inside a building. Indoor mold growth can be tricky to remove and can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory and heart disease, and even cancer. As a result, it is important to conduct regular indoor air quality tests to ensure the safety of the air indoors.

Health issues caused by mould

Mould can cause a variety of health issues, particularly for people with allergies, weakened immune systems, or pre-existing respiratory problems. The health effects of mould exposure can vary from person to person, with some experiencing less severe symptoms and others developing more serious health problems.

Mould produces allergens, irritants, and potentially toxic substances called mycotoxins. Inhaling or touching mould or mould spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including hay fever-type symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mould are common and can be immediate or delayed. Mould can also trigger asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mould. Exposure to mould can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mould-allergic and non-allergic people.

In addition to allergic responses, mould exposure has been linked to respiratory symptoms and infections, developing or worsening asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, allergic rhinitis, eczema, and skin infections. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a rare condition caused by exposure to airborne particles such as mould spores, resulting in lung inflammation. While mould typically does not cause systemic infections, it can lead to infections in people with impaired immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those taking immunosuppressant medication.

To prevent health issues caused by mould, it is important to address mould growth in indoor spaces. This includes eliminating sources of dampness, using dehumidifiers in musty or damp areas, promoting proper groundwater drainage, and regularly cleaning and maintaining areas prone to moisture, such as air ducts and basements.

An air quality test can help identify mould issues and prevent long-term exposure, which can have significant health consequences. It is recommended to seek the services of a reputable company for accurate results and guidance on improving indoor air quality.

Testing for mould

There are various ways to test for mould, including DIY home testing kits and professional inspections. The DIY home testing kits are a safe and easy way to test for mould, with results available within 48 hours. The kits include a petri dish, swab, and mould growth medium, and some even offer an optional mail-in lab analysis to determine the mould type. However, it is important to note that these kits may not always be accurate, and additional costs may be incurred for lab analysis.

Professional mould inspectors, also known as Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEPs), can provide a more accurate assessment of mould issues. They will look for signs of water intrusion, such as staining on the ceiling, and check for humidity using a high-quality hygrometer. Good inspectors may also use a temperature gun to check for thermal cold spots on the walls, which could indicate cracks or water behind the wall. Spore trap testing and tape testing are also common methods used by professionals to detect and identify mould.

While DIY home testing kits are more affordable, they may not always provide accurate results. On the other hand, hiring a professional inspector can be more costly, but they have the expertise and equipment to thoroughly investigate and address mould issues.

It is recommended to first attempt to investigate potential mould problems on your own or with simpler methods before opting for professional mould testing. Basic mould investigations involve finding the locations of mould growth and determining the sources of moisture. By addressing moisture issues and visually inspecting for mould, you may be able to resolve the problem without the need for costly testing.

Preventing mould growth

Mould is a fungus that reproduces through spores, which are invisible to the naked eye and float through the air. It grows on damp surfaces and breaks down the material it grows on, causing damage to your home and furnishings. It can also lead to health problems, such as allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and irritation to the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs. Therefore, it is important to take steps to prevent mould growth. Here are some ways to do that:

Moisture Control

The key to preventing mould growth is moisture control. Mould spores will not grow if moisture is not present. It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mould growth. If there is a plumbing leak or moisture problem, renters should report it immediately to the building owner or manager. Persistent water problems that are not addressed may require contacting local, state, or federal health or housing authorities.

Ventilation and Temperature Fluctuations

Ensure your home is well-ventilated, especially in areas like the bathroom and kitchen, where humidity levels can be high. Opening a window after showering, cooking, or using a tumble dryer can help remove excess moisture from the air. Avoid drying washing on an indoor radiator, as this creates condensation and accelerates mould growth, especially during winter when temperature fluctuations are more common.

Air Ducts and Extractor Fans

Have a specialist clean your air ducts regularly to prevent mould growth and improve indoor air quality. Consider installing extractor fans or ventilation systems in the bathroom and kitchen to reduce humidity and prevent condensation, which can lead to mould growth.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Keep your home clean and well-maintained. Clean up any visible mould promptly and fix any water or moisture problems. Regularly clean fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and other sources of soot and smoke to prevent air contamination. Ban smoking indoors, as it reduces air quality and can contribute to mould growth.

Surface Sampling and Air Quality Testing

In cases of suspected mould growth, surface sampling can be useful to determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated. Sampling should be conducted by professionals with specific experience in mould sampling protocols and interpreting results. Additionally, consider getting an air quality test from a reputable company to identify and address any mould-related issues before they become serious health problems.

Symptoms of mould exposure

Exposure to mould can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild allergic reactions to more severe respiratory issues and chronic illnesses. The symptoms of mould exposure can be difficult to diagnose as they often mimic other conditions, and many physicians are not familiar with mould illness.

The most common symptoms of mould exposure are allergy-like, including coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, and a stuffy or runny nose. Mould exposure can also trigger asthma symptoms such as restricted breathing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. In some cases, mould exposure can lead to more serious respiratory issues such as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, which causes severe wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

Mould exposure can also cause various cognitive issues, including brain fog, poor memory, anxiety, mood swings, irritability, anger, reduced ability to cope with stress, hallucinations, and even suicidal thoughts. Additionally, there can be physical symptoms such as muscle aches, joint pain, abdominal pain, headaches, migraines, tremors, vertigo, seizures, and numbness or tingling.

People with weakened immune systems or pre-existing chronic lung conditions are at a higher risk of developing severe symptoms and complications from mould exposure. It is important to consult a doctor if you suspect mould exposure and are experiencing any adverse health effects, as mould illness can be serious and is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

Treatment of mould

Mould is a fungus that thrives in warm, damp, and poorly ventilated areas. It can cause respiratory issues, infections, and allergies, as well as damage furniture, walls, and fabrics. Therefore, it is important to treat mould as soon as possible. Here are some ways to treat and prevent mould:

Preventative Measures

Mould requires a sustained source of moisture to grow, so it is important to reduce humidity and increase ventilation. Open windows and doors to let fresh air circulate and open blinds and curtains to let sunlight in. Wipe down tiles to remove soap scum, which mould feeds on, and wipe away moisture on windows and walls. Regularly air out wardrobes and cupboards and use moisture absorbers in basements, wardrobes, and closed-off rooms. Dry clothes and shoes before storing them, and avoid drying clothes indoors as this contributes to excess moisture in the air.

Treatment Options

If mould is already present, there are several ways to treat it. Firstly, it is important to wear protective equipment, including long rubber gloves, goggles, and a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Keep the doors closed to the room where you are treating the mould to prevent spores from spreading, and open the windows for ventilation. You can use a mild detergent, such as sugar soap, washing-up liquid or hand soap, with a microfibre cloth to clean mould off walls, floors, and tiles. Rinse the area with water and dry it thoroughly. For fabrics, such as clothes and curtains, use white vinegar. Soak the fabric in a solution of water and vinegar for an hour, then scrub with a toothbrush and wash in the machine, adding vinegar to the cycle. For more severe cases of mould, you may need to use bleach. Mix one part bleach with four parts water and wipe the solution onto the mouldy area with a cloth. Then, wipe away the bleach and dry the area. Alternatively, use a mould spray designed for specific surfaces, such as bathroom walls.

If the mould is extensive, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional, as mould can cause serious health issues and damage to your home. Additionally, if the mould is due to rising damp or condensation, you may need to report it to the relevant housing provider or maintenance service.

Frequently asked questions