The Different Types of Mold and How They Can Affect Health

4/16/2023 (Permalink)

The only things growing in your home should be under your watchful eye.

Mold, usually found in damp, dark places, can cause serious health problems when breathed in or touched. It's essential to know its various types and how they affect your health so you can take proper precautions to protect yourself and your family.

Types of Mold

Mold can range from a black slimy substance to a bright green fuzzy growth. While they may look different, all types of mold have the potential to cause adverse health effects. Knowing the types of mold and the potential health problems associated with them can help you make informed decisions about your home and environment.

The most common types of mold are:

Black Mold

Black mold is a sinister-sounding name for Stachybotrys chartarum, a type of fungus found in damp or wet areas. It is usually black or dark green and can be easily spotted in places with high humidity, such as washrooms, laundry areas, and basements. Not only does it cause unsightly discoloring, but it can also cause various health issues.

Black mold produces toxins known as mycotoxins that can cause various health problems if inhaled. Symptoms may include congestion, watery eyes, cough, irritability, sneezing, headaches, and difficulty in breathing. In some cases, it can even cause respiratory damage and neurological disorders. It's important to have the affected areas treated by a professional as soon as possible.

Mildew

Mildew is a type of fungi that often grows on fabrics, furniture, and other household items in warm and humid environments. These fungi are usually black or gray but can also be white or yellow, depending on their growing area. Mildew is a much less serious form of mold, but it can still cause unpleasant odors and damage to your home. Inhaling mildew spores can cause many health issues, including headaches, coughing, sneezing, and congestion. Additionally, long-term exposure can lead to more serious respiratory illnesses.

To prevent the spread of mildew, it's important to keep your home clean and dry. Make sure to clean any wet areas immediately, as mildew will often form in these places. Additionally, using a dehumidifier can help keep your home's environment dry and free of mold and mildew.

To remove mildew, use a cleaner specifically designed for mildew. This will help to eliminate the odor and prevent it from coming back. Also, make sure to ventilate any areas that have been affected.

White Mold

White mold is the most common type and is usually found in damp, humid places. It can cause various health symptoms, including allergic rhinitis, sinus inflammation, and asthma. White mold is also capable of producing mycotoxins, which can affect the respiratory system, skin, and eyes.

To prevent white mold from growing, it's important to keep your home dry and well-ventilated. Additionally, using a dehumidifier can help reduce the moisture levels in your home and make it less hospitable for mold growth.

Green Mold

Green mold is a type of mold that usually grows in damp, dark areas and is often found in bathrooms and basements. Exposure to green mold can cause allergies and asthma attacks, respiratory problems, skin irritation, and even increase the risk of developing cancer.

If you discover green mold in your home, it's important to act quickly. Call a certified mold specialist to assess the situation and create an action plan. To prevent green mold from spreading, open windows and run dehumidifiers. Additionally, clean and disinfect all non-porous surfaces in the area with a solution of water and bleach.

No matter what type of mold you encounter, it's important to take the proper steps to eliminate and prevent it from returning. If you're unclear about the situation or need assistance, contact SERVPRO of South and Northwest Grand Rapids at (616) 662-9700. We're here to help you eliminate mold and keep your home clean and safe.

So don't wait; call us today and let us help you eliminate mold and keep your family safe!