Molds are spreading everywhere and are real plagues for our interiors. Difficult to detect with the naked eye, they can settle everywhere and even in our organism. In fruit baskets, plants or the shower curtain, everything is likely to become a nest of molds that could be bad for our health.
Mold is a fungus that grows in a moist environment and may be greenish or whitish in color. Its size is microscopic. The accumulation of molds can cause their dispersion in the atmosphere and thus lead to health problems such as respiratory problems or allergic symptoms. Molds grow particularly in poorly ventilated, hot and humid places.
Categories of molds:
There are 1000 types of mold that can form in homes. They are ranked by scientists according to their impact on humans as well as other living things.
What are the molds responsible for allergies?
These are the least dangerous molds for human health. Yet for people with allergies or asthma these microorganisms can worsen their breathing problems. Children are more vulnerable to mold than adults.
Pathogenic mold:
These can be responsible for infections. People whose immune systems are weakened are more vulnerable to this type of mold. A bacterial pneumonia reaction can be observed in people exposed to pathogenic molds.
Toxigenic mold:
This type of mold releases mycotoxins which can be very dangerous for the body. They can be responsible for immunosuppression and cancer. Toxigenic molds can enter the body when inhaled, eaten or even touched.
According to Dr. Mercola, an osteopath, the five most common molds are:
- Alternaria: This mold is very present in the nose, mouth and respiratory tract and can cause allergic reactions.
- Aspergillus: Very present in hot, humid climates, it is an organism that is frequently found in house dust. It is a toxigenic agent that can be responsible for lung infections in humans.
- Cladosporium: It is a common mold that can be found on textiles, wood as well as porous and wet materials. It can trigger hay fever and symptoms similar to those of asthma.
- Penicillium: They are found on wallpaper, rotting fabrics, carpets and insulation of fiberglass ducts. They are known to create mycotoxins, including penicillin which can be dangerously allergenic.
- Stachybotrys: This mold is black and extremely toxic. It can be responsible for bleeding of the lungs and severe breathing difficulties. It can be found on wood or paper but fortunately its presence is very rare in homes.
What is mold disease?
This disease can occur in case of exposure to one or more molds. If the most common case is an allergy to mold, it can result in diseases without allergic reaction. Molds can be responsible for flu-like symptoms, skin infections, pneumonia, but can also cause infections or irritating and toxic reactions.
It is therefore important to be aware of the dangerousness of these micro-organisms and to observe the reactions of one's body. If you observe the symptoms below, you must consult a doctor.
Symptoms of mold disease:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Memory and concentration disorders
- Headache
- Muscle cramps, muscle or joint pains
- Red eyes or sensitivity to light
- Asthma and other problems like coughing or shortness of breath
- Tremblies and vertigo
- Metal gain in the mouth
- Excessive thirst and increased urination
- Digestive problems like a change of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, etc.
-Tingling and stinging
It is important to clean small and large surfaces regularly to avoid the formation or proliferation of mold in your home.
