The media’s focus on toxic black Stachybotrys mold has scared many people into believing that any black spot or speck in their home is a dangerous health risk. Black molds, however, are common and not necessarily toxic.
Certain types of mold can trigger respiratory problems in people who have allergies or immune system disorders. This is particularly true for young children and elderly adults.
Expiration Dates
Cosmetics often have “best before” or “use by” dates, which are determined through stability testing. These dates are an important guide to a product’s peak performance. After this date, a product may still work; however, its effectiveness can decrease. When it comes to clean beauty products, expiration dates are just as important as those for food. Understanding these dates can help you become a beauty detective cosmetic mold and spot when your products have gone bad. Fortunately, this isn’t always as noticeable as moldy bread.
Symptoms
Most people can tolerate the spores of some types of mold without any medical problems, but those with immune system conditions like allergies, asthma or chronic lung and respiratory illnesses are at risk. Some types of mold release toxins, called mycotoxins, that some experts believe can make people feel ill. Those who have experienced prolonged exposure to mold are at an increased risk for developing a range of symptoms, including sinus pressure and congestion, fatigue and headaches.
The CDC notes that mold spores can irritate the nose, throat and lungs, which leads to coughing, especially in those who are sensitive to mold. The irritation can also trigger a skin rash, eye irritation, itchy eyes and nose, sneezing or runny nose.
Those who have long-term exposure to mold may develop a more serious problem known as dampness and mold hypersensitivity syndrome (DMHS). This condition can lead to a number of symptoms, including gastrointestinal problems, rashes, fatigue and depression.
Check for signs of mold by shining a flashlight in areas where mold is likely to grow. Sometimes the mold is visible and distinct, but it can also be very subtle. Look for a musty odor, water damage or leaks. Remove porous items that cannot be cleaned, such as carpeting and fabric, as these can become a breeding ground for mold.
Prevention
Mold spores thrive where moisture and warmth meet, and they can grow in houseplant soil, on foodstuffs and in damp areas. They also can grow on the surfaces of raw materials used in manufacturing, such as paper, wood products and engineered lumber (such as gypsum wallboard).
Most molds are colorless, but the fungi that create the black Stachybotrys chartarum have received considerable media attention. Unfortunately, the spores of this and other dark species may be mistaken for toxic mold and can cause serious health problems. A licensed inspector or microbiologist trained in identifying different types of mold can confirm whether the specimens growing in your home are cosmetic, benign or toxic.
Generally, the best way to prevent mold growth is to eliminate the moisture source. This can mean repairing leaks, cosmetic mold supplier clearing gutters and draining crawl spaces, and drying up any areas that have been damp for more than 24 to 48 hours. Using dehumidifiers and air conditioners can help reduce indoor humidity, as should wiping down surfaces regularly with mold-killing products.
Whenever possible, it is advisable to use nonporous materials such as metals and hard plastics in construction. Porous materials such as fabrics, wallboard and insulation should be replaced if they have been in contact with mold for more than 48 hours. When cleaning, a respirator and gloves should be worn and instructions on product labels followed carefully.
Treatment
Many types of molds are commonly found in buildings and homes. Some of them are considered cosmetic and don’t present a health problem for healthy people. However, some of them can lead to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. If you are concerned about your health, a medical professional should be consulted.
If you have a mild case of allergy or infection to fungi, a physician can prescribe antifungal medications to help relieve symptoms. These include oral and intravenous (IV) medications, as well as injections for a long-term solution.
In order to keep mold from growing, you must address the source of water intrusion and organic matter and provide proper temperature. This usually means removing porous building materials like carpet, wallpaper and drywall and addressing air movement in affected areas.
Affected items should be scrubbed with detergent and water to remove dirt and staining. Non-porous materials can often be cleaned using diluted bleach, although it is important to use it sparingly to avoid bleach discoloration of wood and some textiles. Absorbent and porous material may need to be thrown away, as it can’t be completely cleaned or dried. It is also essential to remove and replace any materials that are damaged beyond repair by water or mold. If a mold problem persists, you must consult with an expert to assess and repair building damage.
