The Dangers of mould.
Mould can put you health at risk.
Mould is something all homeowners and landlords need to be wary of. Not only is it very unsightly, it can cause serious health problems for anyone living with mould in their home.
So what is mould?
Mould is a type of fungus that grows on dead organic material. It thrives in dark, humid conditions and can be commonly found in both nature and urban areas. More than 100,000 mould species have been identified throughout the world.
In nature, mould plays an important role in breaking down organic matter like dead plants and fallen leaves. Inside buildings, however, it can cause structural damage and a wealth of health problems for those that live there.
Building materials that are exposed to moisture are an ideal breeding ground for mould, which is why it is mostly found in bathrooms, kitchens, or rooms affected by damp. Because mould can penetrate deep into materials, a mould problem may be more severe than it appears on the surface.
If you suspect a mould problem in your property, it’s important to get it looked at by a professional as soon as possible. They will have specialist tools to properly assess the extent of the damp issue, and can offer remedial treatments to remove the mould before it gets worse.
Could mould make me sick?
For most people, exposure to mould over a short period of time will not cause any harm. However, extended periods of exposure can lead to complications. For more vulnerable individuals, such as those with existing respiratory problems or compromised immune systems, mould can lead to serious health concerns down the line.
Mould reproduces by releasing microscopic spores into the air or water. When inhaled, these spores can cause breathing problems, flu-like symptoms, fatigue, and have even been linked with depression and anxiety.
Certain groups are more at risk of mould-related health problems than others:
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People with asthma or allergies
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People with weakened immune systems
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People with skin problems
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Elderly people
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Infants and children