Mould in the home: beware of chronic diseases

---

Extract from the article: The presence of mould in the home causes problems that go far beyond structural damage. While its smell and the stains it creates on walls and ceilings are the most noticeable elements, it is important to know that over time it causes certain health

---

The presence of mould in the home causes problems that go far beyond structural damage. While its smell and the stains it creates on walls and ceilings are the most noticeable elements, it is important to know that over time it causes certain health problems.

Mould is a form of fungus that tends to grow in indoor and outdoor spaces. It frequently appears in very damp areas, such as roofs or walls, showers where water seeps in, windows, pipes or any place where there is frequent contact with liquids. Similarly, it proliferates easily in cardboard items, wooden products, plasterboard, carpets or paints. Because it produces spores, mould spreads easily by stagnating in the air. Then, if the environment is humid and warm, it grows.

According to an article published in the journal « Environmental Health » Perspectives, it is estimated that about 500 species of fungi affect human health. However, the most common in the home are Cladosporium, Penicillium and Aspergillus.

 How does mould get into the house?

Mould spores are as present in outdoor spaces as they are indoors; however, they are not easily seen. They enter homes through windows, open doors, ventilation ducts or air conditioning systems.

They can also stick to objects such as clothes and shoes, which then carry them back into the house, and even to animal hair. If the right humidity conditions are present indoors, mould will grow; if not, it will not cause any problems.

Mould in the home and health

According to information published by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, exposure to damp and mouldy environments causes respiratory symptoms and allergic reactions in some people. It can also trigger attacks in patients with asthma.  Research published in « Environmental Health » has determined that residential dampness and mould significantly increase the risk of respiratory infections such as bronchitis. Mould is also associated with lung disease, hypersensitivity and sinusitis.

More specifically, symptoms such as nasal congestion, itchy nose and throat, sneezing, watery eyes and excess mucus can be highlighted. Furthermore, as the journal « Allergy » reports, early exposure to mould or dampness increases the risk of asthma and rhinitis.

Contact with mould can lead to aspergillosis, a serious lung disease. It requires immediate medical treatment. It can cause a severe infection that can spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms include chronic cough, coughing with bleeding, fever, wheezing and weight loss. It leads to the following clinical manifestations: bone pain, chest pain, chills, decreased urine output, headache, respiratory failure, visual difficulties, skin lesions.

 How to prevent health problems due to mould in the home?

One of the most important measures is to make sure that the spaces are ventilated, clean and not damp. Solve water leakage problems quickly. Open windows to allow air to circulate. Avoid drying clothes in indoor spaces. Empty and air out cupboards, especially if they are used infrequently. Regularly clean all surfaces likely to harbour mould (walls, ceilings, furniture). Choose anti-mould products to disinfect the bathroom and wet areas.

 Consult the doctor

Exposure to mould does not always cause health problems. However, it is recommended to avoid its presence in the house. In addition, a doctor should be consulted if symptoms of allergies or respiratory illnesses and serious complications occur.

William O.