Mold is a silent threat to our health at home. Even short-term mold exposure can be dangerous, but long-term mold exposure can have severe effects. Everyone needs to know the details of prolonged mold exposure and its health risks. Keep reading to understand the impact of mold exposure and the symptoms to watch for in your own health.
Mold Exposure Side Effects
The side effects of mold exposure depend on the person and their sensitivity to mold. Side effects might only appear as seasonal allergy symptoms like throat irritation or coughing for those who aren’t allergic to this substance. However, mold exposure can be more serious for those who are allergic or have preexisting conditions.
Mold exposure can result in difficulty breathing and asthma attacks for those with chronic lung illnesses or asthma. Additionally, mold infections are possible for those with weak immune systems. This is why it’s important to monitor your symptoms and exposure to mold and mildew.
Mild vs. Long-Term Mold Exposure
While allergy symptoms and asthma attacks are serious, these are only the short-term effects of mold exposure. Long-term mold exposure can have more severe results, especially in those with mold sensitivity. Long-term exposure to mold can cause difficulty with breathing and infections, and long-term effects like memory loss, fatigue, and lung issues. Long-term mold exposure can occur when hard-to-reach areas of a home become infested with mold. If you notice a musty or damp smell in your home, this could signify hidden mold.
Different Types of Mold Exposure
Another aspect of mold exposure to note is the different types of molds. There are three main types of mold, and each type can affect you differently. Allergenic mold is the type that causes seasonal allergy symptoms and is generally the least harmful to most people. Pathogenic molds can cause infections in individuals with weakened immune systems. Finally, toxigenic mold (also known as black mold) can cause severe health problems. With long-term exposure to this toxigenic mold, people can experience mold poisoning.
We hope this overview of the different types of molds and their effects has helped you better understand the health risks associated with prolonged mold exposure. If you suspect mold in your home, contact our professional team at Aloha Restoration Co. today. We handle mold removal in Schaumberg and the surrounding area to prevent mold exposure in households across Chicagoland.
