Mold allergy symptoms
Mold allergy symptoms make anyone feel miserable, but children can suffer the most from the dangerous health effects of mold. The allergies often mimic the symptoms of a cold or hay fever, so they’re difficult to diagnose properly. However, if someone in your home has been experiencing these symptoms for an extended period of time without relief, a mold allergy may be the culprit:
- Shortness of Breath
- Wheezing
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Coughing
- Worsening of asthma symptoms
Black mold health risks
Any type of mold should be treated seriously, but Stachybotrys, commonly known as “black mold”, causes the greatest health risks and can be fatal in children. The mycotoxins in Stachybotrys can cause a burning sensation in nasal cavities, mouths, and throats. If they become lodged in the lungs, mucus membranes, or sinuses, they can cause severe breathing problems. These toxins have been shown to kill neurons in the brain and cause nervous disorders and mood swings. Common neurological symptoms attributed to black mold include:
- Confusion/disorientation
- A shortened attention span
- Memory loss
- Headaches
- Slowed reflexes
- Anxiety/depression
The longer children are exposed to these mycotoxins, the more sensitive they may become and the reactions are more likely to become severe. That’s why it’s vital to arrange for expert mold removal services at the first sign of black mold. Mold can spread quickly and get into hidden areas, like inside walls, where it’s difficult to find without specialized testing equipment. Once mold removal has been completed, symptoms should begin to reverse, although long-term exposure to black mold can weaken children’s immune systems and leave them more sensitive to mold in the future.
Professional Mold Remediation
If you find mold, especially black mold, in your home or business in Alexandria, VA or Washington, DC, call the trained professionals at ServiceMaster NCR. With over 30 years in the business, we have the necessary experience to find and eradicate mold. We know that without proper drying, mold can begin growing in 48 hours, and also offer 24-hour emergency drying services to prevent mold growth before it can damage health and property.
