Mold And Mildew-Some Interesting Facts
It’s that undesirable guest you can’t seem to get rid of. It’s mold & mildew, and it’s found in homes everywhere. Here are some interesting facts about
- Mold is the presence of a wooly substance that can be found on various organic items. It is the result of the presence of parasitic fungi, usually in damp areas. Mold that grows on cloth-like materials are generally referred to as mildew. The most common breeding areas within the home are walls, carpet, ceiling tile, and furniture.
- People come in contact with the organism through various means—carpet, breathing spores, and food that has become moldy. Exposure does not always lead to sickness—it depends on the level of contamination and the length of time.
- Most mold and mildew do not pose a serious threat to human health. However, it can trigger symptoms similar to allergies. It can also cause upset stomach and vomiting if ingested. A specific mold known as black mold can cause more severe symptoms. People exposed to black mold for extended periods have complained of queasy stomach; eye, nose, and throat irritation; and in rare instances, even bleeding of the lungs and death. Although rare, black mold is serious enough that you don’t want to mess around with it.
- Studies have shown a connection between mold and asthma. Nearly 40 million people in the United States of America suffer from asthma as the result of mold and mildew.
- Other microorganisms that commonly thrive in households include bacteria, dust mites, and
- Where does mold come from? It comes from spores that are constantly in the air (a lot like pollen). Anytime spores fall on a wet organic substance, it begins to consume it. Examples are wood, fabrics, and rubber.
- All households have mold. It is impossible to completely eliminate, because spores are everywhere. The key to keeping mold under control is keeping moisture under control. Mold can not grow without the presence of wetness.
If you live in an apartment and notice mold, report mold to your landlord. They are required by law to address the issue. It is illegal for them to ignore the problem, as mold and mildew is considered a health and safety issue, and tenants are protected from having to be exposed to such conditions. He will likely have experts come in and test for the presence of mold, and repair any problems found.
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