Molds are part of the natural environment, and can be found everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Mold is not usually a problem, unless it begins growing indoors. The best way to control mold growth is to control moisture. Molds can have a big impact on indoor air quality.

Why is mold growing in my home?

Molds are part of the natural environment, even here in Colorado where humidity is relatively low. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor & indoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet. There are many types of mold, none of them will grow without water or moisture and some sort of nutrient.

Can mold cause health problems?

Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Certain species of mold have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). In extreme cases, certain species are also known to be pathogenic as well (disease causing). Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic or toxic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Toxic reactions may include headaches, dizziness, sleep disorders, numbness, memory loss and confusion.

Allergic reactions to mold are the most common. They can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people. Symptoms other than the allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling mold. Research on mold and health effects is ongoing.

For More Information from the World Health Organization on Mold Click Here