Black Mold

Published by: Elizabeth Gormley
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

    Of all the molds that can invade your home, black mold is the most dangerous.  Also known as “toxic mold,” black mold can affect even the non-allergenic with flu-like symptoms that range from headache and chills to respiratory problems like coughing and sneezing.  It may seem like a member of your household has picked up a common bug, but as long black mold is lurking, the symptoms will not subside.  They will be chronic and may lead to serious problems like asthma.  For someone allergic to black mold, the situation may be grave—vomiting, diarrhea, internal bleeding, liver and other organ pain, nervous system problems, and skin lesions that won’t heal.  Black mold allergies have even been connected to infertility, when sufferers have been exposed over long periods of time.
    The toxins of black mold are passed on its spores, so small they are close to microscopic.  It is a filament fungus that reproduces asexually.  Where one colony starts, another is likely to begin close by.  Because the spores are so small, they travel easily and under the radar.  The spores can be inhaled and/or eaten, undetected.
    As with all mold, black mold thrives in moist places.  It is most common in poorly maintained buildings that are not sealed properly against the elements.  There are warning signs that precede colonization.  Are any surfaces in your home continuously moist, like walls, counters, or even clothes hanging in the closet?  Black mold cannot grow in dry areas, so act immediately upon moisture detection.  Are there yellow or brown water stains on the wall, floor, or ceiling?  If so, shortly there may be dark toxic patches of growth.  Is there a damp, musty odor?  Most people believe this scent is “normal” in dank storage places like basements and attics.  However, black mold will make people sick no matter what level of the home on which it is starting to grow.  The next sign of black mold are the damaging physical symptoms.  If an allergic person even stops by the home even briefly, he may exhibit a severe reaction.
    After it forms, black mold survives by “degrading” the surface on which it is growing for nutrition.  It will propel easily through air conditioning vents to different areas.  Air purifiers are a wise investment, as they reduce the spores in the air.   Preventing black mold is done by reducing moisture and dehumidifying, fixing all leaks and areas of condensation.  Bathrooms should be scrupulously cleaned, while removing tiles and curtains showing any signs of mold spores.  These are relatively easy ways to spare you and your family the potentially debilitating effects of black mold, a growing poison that must be taken very seriously.


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