Black mold which grows inside or outside your home presents a significant health risk. Some populations are more susceptible than others, and those with certain health conditions will experience a worsening of their health problems. Finding a mold infestation means looking for telltale signs.
What is Black Mold
Black mold (stachybotrys chartarum) is a fungi found growing indoors and outdoors. This mold looks for leaves, compost, soil, wood and leaves to grow on. When it grows indoors, it will grow most easily on carpet, drywall and wallpaper which has become excessively moist. Black mold spores do not easily become airborne, but if they grow in high enough concentrations, they can cause respiratory symptoms.
Environments Mold Likes
Black mold colonies will grow the most easily on surfaces with a low nitrogen, high cellulose content (look for mold on gypsum board, paper, fiberboard, lint and dust. The growth is initiated when there is water damage, condensation, water leaks, excessive humidity, water infiltration (water spills behind a wall when a leak develops) and flooding. For black mold to grow, the exposure to moisture must be consistent.
Health Risks
Some molds produce what is called "mycotoxin," which stops the growth of other organisms. This is important to know because even when black mold has been eradicated through cleaning the mycotoxins could cause a greater health risk to someone who is sensitive. The symptoms of exposure to black mold are a sore throat, watery/itchy eyes, wheezing, coughing, stuffy nose, skin irritation or rashes, dizziness, fatigue and headache.
Pre-existing Conditions
If you or a family member already suffer from allergies or asthma, exposure to black mold can exacerbate your condition. If your home has a mold infestation, your asthma can be triggered upon exposure to the spores. Some people are likely to be effected by black mold more quickly than others. These populations include those with compromised immune systems (HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy patients and organ transplant recipients). The elderly and infants may also be more sensitive to black mold exposure, as are pregnant women and people with respiratory conditions such as allergies and asthma.
Use Your Nose
The easiest way to identify a mold problem in your home is to smell. If you detect a musty or earthy smell, your home may have a mold infestation problem. If you realize you have a problem with excessive moisture, begin to look for the telltale signs of mold on your walls. You will notice a fuzzy growth, discoloration of the wall or other surfaces and a cottony or grainy appearance. It could appear to be green, yellow, gray, black, white or brown. Look for mold under carpets, carpet padding, vinyl flooring, sink cabinets, wallpaper, furniture, items in storage and badly caulked bathroom fixtures such as the shower. Look for standing water, water stains, water leaks, warped wood and cracked plaster.
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