Is Mold in Your Home Affecting Your Skin?

Common Health Problems Caused by Mold

Mold and mildew are found in places where there is a lot of moisture. It can be found both indoors and outdoors and can grow on a variety of surfaces such as walls, ceilings, wooden furniture, clothes, shoes, and many other damp areas. Mold gives off a musty odor and can cause numerous health problems to those who live with it.

Many people who experience these health problems are typically allergic to mold. However, a person who is not currently allergic to mold, may become allergic to it later in life or can have mild symptoms whenever he or she is exposed to it.

Wheezing

Wheezing is shortness of breath, caused by narrowed airways which constrict the free movement of air out of the lungs. A variety of factors cause wheezing, including allergens such as mold. Those who are allergic should take extra precautions like covering their nose while breathing or having an inhaler handy in an environment which contains mold.

Skin Rashes

Mold can cause rashes. Touching it can cause inflammation of the skin or discoloration of the local spot where there has been contact. An infection from mold can cause conditions such as eczema and hives. The best way to treat these infections is with the use of over-the-counter products, such as skin creams and moisturizers.

Running Nose, Coughing, Red, Watery and Itchy Eyes

All these symptoms are interrelated when the nasal passage obstructs the free flow of air in and out of it and causes a discharge of fluid. This creates an inflammation and swelling of the inner walls of the nose. When you have a runny nose, your eyes also get itchy and start watering. Your nasal cavities and passages are infected, inflamed and devoid of moisture. While there may be many reasons for these inflammations, mold can certainly be a contributing factor to such infections.

Recommended Medication

There are no specific medications to prevent infection from mold. However, chronic infections due to mold can be diagnosed in the early stages and appropriate measures can be taken to prevent your exposure. In the case of an infection, you will need to see the doctor immediately and receive medical advice. This may include carrying medication with you in case of further contact with mold.

However, the best remedy when treating mold-related health issues is to ensure proper ventilation. Large windows, ventilators above the windows and enough sunlight streaming into the room should all be enough to keep mold at bay. If you do come across mold in your home, use some simple home remedies such as spraying the area with a vinegar solution, to ensure that the problem area does not affect your general health.

Article by Jenny Holt