The Hazards of Black Mold
March 19, 2010
With all the home repair shows on television today, it’s hard to believe that there could still be anyone who isn’t acquainted with at least the basics of black mold. Sadly, there are those who remain ignorant. It’s not a topic that anyone should take lightly, especially if one owns a home. The problem is that many people still cannot take the threat of mold seriously. After all, it’s just some fungus. What could it possibly do? It can do a lot. While it’s true that some types of mold have beneficial medical properties, black mold is not one of them. On the contrary, it can get a person very sick. Here are some of the conditions it can be responsible for:
• Respiratory infections that could lead to bleeding in the lungs in extreme cases (people have been known to cough up blood)
• Allergic reactions, especially to those who have exhibited previous allergies to other types of mold/fungi
• Build up of mucus in the mouth, throat and lungs
• Headaches, chronic fatigue and watery eyes
The problem with black mold, or any toxic variety, is that it’s sometimes very difficult to find. It thrives in wet, dark environments, which happens to be just the type that people tend to ignore. Where can black mold be found?
• Black mold loves the back of drywall because this is often cool and dark. Drywall is also very porous so the mold will be able to get a supply of moisture, especially if the drywall is exposed to the elements or located in a humid place.
• Basements are one of the most common places to find black mold because of the moisture level. This is especially dangerous since the basement tends to either house or be close to structural elements of the home.
• Any room in the home which is very humid will attract black mold. One danger spot is behind the kitchen sink and even the tiniest leak can provide all it needs to grow and will very likely go unnoticed.
Mold exists in some form in practically every household. There are a number of types of mold which are dark in color and not all of them are toxic. Black mold will have a powdery texture but it’s not exactly a good idea to go playing with the thing to see what it feels like. If one finds some evidence of mold, and suspects that it is the dreaded black mold, call in an expert. They’ll be able to determine what it is and give advice accordingly.
