Beware Of Moldy Indoors!

By Author: Jessica Cristina
Total Articles: 20
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Mold is nothing but just another word for fungus. Molds differ from plants with respect to reproduction, they contain something called as spores. These spores are the source of reproduction and also are likely to be airborne be it indoors or outdoors. While some spores are airborne in dry, windy weather, some are airborne during foggy conditions. They thrive when the humidity is high and in a place like India, they are present all-year-round. There are different kinds of molds. Some molds form colonies, which can be spotted easily, whereas others are only visible through a microscopic lens.
The prime areas for mold to grow outdoors are rotting logs and fallen leaves, grasses, and grains. Many people mistake mold to be harmless during winter or dry conditions, but instead, they are also active during the winter, unlike pollen allergy. Now, you can avoid the outdoor mold by undertaking a number of steps but what about the mold that grows indoors? Indoor mold thrives wherever there's more moisture, particularly in the bathroom, kitchen, sinks, etc. It can trigger an unwanted allergy in some people. Although the symptoms of ...
... most indoor allergies are similar, we've put down a few points on how to determine if you're having an indoor mold allergy.
The symptoms include:
• Itchy, stuffy nose
• Clear nasal discharge
• Itchy, watery, swollen, bloodshot eyes
• Sneezing
• Scratchy, swollen throat
• Cough
• Wheezing
• Tightness in the chest
Please seek medical help if you're showing any signs or symptoms mentioned above. Now, let's look at how to manage an indoor mold allergy.
Symptoms of indoor mold allergy last until you're in contact with the allergen. They can persist up to a few hours after the contact as well. Consult a doctor/physician for the proper diagnosis of the allergy. Here are a few points that will help you manage the indoor mold allergy:
• Filtering your home with fresh air is important. Air conditioning also helps as it maintains the moisture levels restricting the growth of mold.
• Keep your bathrooms, laundry areas clean. These are the prime areas where mold is most likely to thrive. If you notice any dampness or a slight chance of mold growth, deal with it immediately.
Indoor mold allergy can also open the door to other respiratory problems. So, it's best to seek a medical professional's opinion if you're showing any signs.
How can you control mold growth in the home?
The best way to tackle the mold is to prevent its growth. This will also help in minimizing the chances of being exposed to the allergen. Here are a few things that you can do to keep mold from developing into a problem in and around your home.
• Installing an exhaust fan or open a window in the bathroom helps a lot
• Quickly repair any plumbing leaks
• Repair blocked drains and water seepage/leakage through any walls
• Make sure your room temperature is normal and has less humidity. Pay close attention to small spaces as there is a very high chance mold might grow
• Designate a place outside the home for clothes to dry if possible
• Clean and disinfect sinks and tubs at least once a month
It's advisable to seek your doctor's or physician's help if you're showing any signs. Workout an allergy management plan with them to deal with mold allergy.