Mold is a common fungus that grows in dark, moist places such as carpets, walls, air conditioning units, and even in shower stalls. If left untreated, spores that are released into the air can cause a myriad of health problems. If you think you have an infestation in your home, quick and effective mold remediation is essential to keeping you and your family healthy.

Understanding the Effects of Mold on Health

What Are the Negative Health Effects of Mold?

The health risks associated with mold depend on the amount and duration of exposure. The most common effect of short-term exposure is a respiratory allergic reaction. Those with compromised immune systems or pre-existing respiratory conditions might experience more serious effects such as sinusitis and lung infections. 

What Are the Symptoms of Mold Poisoning?

Knowing when you have mold poisoning is the key to receiving fast treatment. Initial signs include runny nose, sneezing, and skin irritation. Other symptoms include headaches, nosebleeds, mood swings, and unexplained body aches and pain.  

People with more serious cases can even experience life-threatening symptoms like a fever that doesn’t break and difficulty breathing. To avoid severe illness, it’s important to see a medical professional at the first signs of mold poisoning.

How Can Mold Infestations Be Treated?

Keeping your home free of excess moisture is the most important step to keeping it from growing. Immediately drying liquid spills, monitoring your basement for water damage, running a dehumidifier, and allowing air to flow through your home are effective ways to keep it as dry as possible. 

If you have already discovered a mold infestation in your home, don’t attempt to clean it yourself. Patches of mold have spores that can easily disperse and attach themselves to other surfaces if not properly cleaned. To avoid unintentionally spreading toxic mold, call a mold remediation company for assistance. They’ll safely remove the spores without compromising your family’s health. 

If you’re dealing with toxic mold in your home, contact the trained mold remediation technicians at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach in St. Augustine, FL. With 24-hour emergency cleaning services, your infestation can be controlled no matter the time of day. If your home sustained water damage, the team will also remove excess water and moisture from the home to reduce mold spores from forming. For more information about their services, visit them online or call (904) 429-4457 to schedule an appointment.