Mold Allergies and Contamination

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Mold Allergies and Contamination

According to the Environmental Protection Agency 50% of all structures contain mold, which may be a health hazard, and real estate brochures call it the next asbestos epidemic. While there is no proven relationship with the aging population of North American homes and development of molds, many older homes built with wood may have structural and maintenance issues that could contribute to the increasing mold problem.

Mold is a microscopic plant-like organism, whose purpose is to breakdown dead organic plant or animal matter (leaves, trees, insects and animals). There are 50,000 species of mold and mold thrives on organic or cellulose-based (plant) material. Mold reproduces by releasing spores into the air surrounding it. Indoor spores generally reflect what is found outdoors, so any mold found indoors which, is not also predominant outside, suggests that there is mild contamination in the house and the air quality is degraded.

Detection is by visual inspection, smell, and sampling. You may need a good, professional home inspector to conduct investigations to 1) find areas of water infiltration into your home; 2) find conditions that may facilitate water infiltration, and 3) find other conditions that may promote mold growth, such as deficient construction, improper grading, or the use of wet lumber during construction.

Red flags indicating need for testing include visible growth, family members with allergies to mold becoming increasingly symptomatic, musty odor anywhere, evidence of present or past water infiltration, construction defects, poorly maintained or dirty HVAC systems, plumbing defects in the kitchen, bathrooms, or laundry area, cracks in bath tile, missing caulk, failed toilet seals, leaking drains, and carpet in direct contact with concrete.

One can develop a skin or sinus infection, irritation of the mucous membranes of the eyes and respiratory tract, mold allergy with associated rhinitis, sinusitis and asthma, or a more severe, but uncommon, toxic reaction. To determine a related illness, your allergist will begin with a complete history and physical examination, environmental history including home health survey, quality of life survey and identify pre-existing medical disorders masquerading as “mold toxicity”. Testing will include skin testing, pulmonary function testing, and possible blood studies.

To minimize mold contamination always remove any existing mold and eliminate moist conditions that allow growth. To remove minor mold problems, use a 5-10% bleach or anti-fungal solution. Remove any contaminated insulation. Seek professional advice and don’t perform any clean-up if you have health problems, or if there is extreme contamination.