Molds are types of fungi that grow in damp and warm places. They are also present in various places such as inside damp places inside the house, soil, food and dead plant matter. There are different types of molds and black mold is the most dangerous to the health. They are called toxic molds which belong to the stachybotrys species of mold.
When these molds comes in contact with humans, they are capable of causing severe consequences on the health such as respiratory problems, sore eyes, itching and burning sensation on the skin surface. The mycotoxin that is found in black mold is responsible for causing all these symptoms.
Black molds needs proper environment of warmth and moisture as well as growing in places where dampness prevails for many days. Such places usually take three weeks for them to colonize. Once the mold starts growing, it will overtake other mold colonies and spreads to other neighboring areas at a rapid rate.
In homes, black molds grow in areas which remain wet and moist for long periods of time. They are found in areas where there is constant leakage of water such as ceilings, shower curtains, wall crevices of bathrooms, surfaces around air conditioners, window moldings, bathrooms tiles and even on carpets that were damaged by water. Spores of these molds are responsible for a number of health problems. The spores quickly spread in the surroundings and enters the body through respiration. The spores contain toxic substances called mycotoxin which causes the symptoms.
Symptoms of black mold exposure
- The affected person will experience coughing, sneezing, throat irritation, sore and burning eyes as well as a runny nose.
- Rash, itching and formation of blisters on the skin
- A crawling sensation can be felt on the skin
- Nasal bleeding, pneumonia, breathlessness, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, memory loss and behavioral changes.
Treatment and home remedies
- Fix the source of moisture such as in the wall, roof or crevices that are always wet. Allow the area to dry in order to help prevent the growth of black mold.
- Apply Borax which is considered highly effective in killing black molds. All you have to do is mix a cup of borax to two liters of water. Mix it well and place the solution in a spray bottle. Apply the solution on the affected area and scrub down the mold. The last step is to apply paint to the area.
- Wear gloves when cleaning mold from the walls and a filter dust mask in order to avoid inhaling the spores that spreads in the air.
- Clear off the mold that are dead by vacuuming the area thoroughly. The vacuum filter should be placed in a plastic bag and throw in the garbage area.
- Mix 3-4 teaspoon of tea tree oil with a liter of water. Apply the solution to the affected area since it helps eliminate the mold.
- Grape fruit seed and vinegar are also useful in killing black mold.
FACT CHECK
https://www.cdc.gov/mold/stachy.htm
https://www.healthline.com/health/black-mold-exposure
https://www.hgtv.com/remodel/interior-remodel/black-mold-symptoms-and-health-effects