Adverse Health Effects of Toxic Mold

Last week, we discussed the differences between Good Mold vs Bad Mold.  Today, Castellano AC Services would like to talk about how mold can make you sick.

Some molds can amplify poor Indoor Air Quality and are capable of making people sick.When mold is toxic, like black mold, it can affect a human's health, and even a pet's health, in a negative way.  Generally, people who are more sensitive, have compromised immunities, seniors, children, infants and pets are most at risk for feeling the negative effects from mold exposure in a home or building.

There are correlations of mold exposure contributing to the following symptoms:

• Allergic reactions, including irritation of the eyes, nose, or throat
• Headaches, especially upon waking
• Sinusitis and Sinus Infections*
• Flu-like symptoms, including fatigue, dizziness, and diarrhea
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Asthma or Breathing Disorders
• Coughing up Blood or Black looking Debris
• Nose Bleeds
• Constant Fatigue
• Weight Loss
• Hair loss
• Skin Rashes
• Open Sores on the Skin
• Memory Loss
• Swollen Glands in the Neck Area and under the Armpit
• Ear Infections, Chronic Sinus Infections, Chronic Bronchitis

*Sinusitis is the most common healthcare complaint and affects 37 million people in USA (about 1 out of every 7 Americans). According to a Mayo Clinic study, mold is a known allergen that many people are likely sensitive to. In addition, the study shows that mold in the air and in the nose is directly linked to sinus inflammation. The Mayo Clinic study proved that 93% of all chronic sinusitis studied was caused by mold.

If You Suspect Mold in Your Home or Building

If you are worried about having illness due to mold exposure, see your doctor. If you believe you have been exposed to mold, it is a good idea to take notes and talk to your doctor about where you might have been exposed along with the types of symptoms you are experiencing along with their duration.

Next, alert your HVAC contractor and/or the building contractor (if the building is relatively new) regarding your concerns. The next step is education and exploring solutions. If mold is found, identifying the type will help establish whether any dangers are present. If health issues are present, evacuation, abatement, and remediation are necessary.

The identification of mold requires specialized testing and laboratory analysis to determine the type of mold and any of the health hazards that may be associated with it.  If your HVAC contractor does not performmold analysis, abatement, and remediation, they may be able to identify a partnering company that is a trained and certified in this type of work.

Castellano AC Services is a heating, ventilation, air conditioning Tampa Bay contracting business. Our HVAC service area covers the Tampa Bay area of more than 25 cities.  We are committed clean indoor air quality.  With more than 40 years experience, our technicians are all highly trained, qualified and licensed to diagnose and repair all types and brands of HVAC systems.  Learn more at www.aircastellano.com.