Copyright timesnownews
There are times when you may have no idea why you are falling sick repeatedly. However, if you spot black or fuzzy spores – especially after the monsoon season – it is time to take charge. Mould is not just dirty-looking but can be life-threatening as well. Recently, a two-year-old British child died after exposure to mould in his housing association flat in Manchester. The boy developed a severe respiratory illness in a house that was riddled with black mould. According to doctors, his throat, windpipe, and other airways were swollen and congested, and fungus was found in his blood and lungs. How can you identify the deadly mould? Black mould can be identified by a musty odour, visible dark spots, or health symptoms like allergic reactions. Since mold often grows in hidden, moist areas, a combination of these signs can indicate a larger problem. Even though not all black-colored mould is the toxic Stachybotrys chartarum, seeing slimy or fuzzy dark green, black, or brown spots on walls, ceilings, or furniture is a definite sign of an infestation. Make sure you pay attention to areas with high moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. What are the frequent health symptoms you may get due to mould? According to experts, if you have been facing lingering health issues that feel like a cold or allergies, it could be triggered by mould spores in the air. A few common signs and symptoms include: Chronic coughing, sneezing, and nasal congestion A persistent sore throat or itchy, watery eyes Skin rashes or other skin irritation Wheezing, chest tightness, or asthma flare-ups Itchy and red eyes If you are allergic to mould spores, you can develop the symptoms immediately after coming into contact with spores. Otherwise, the symptoms may take a while to appear and become deadly soon after. Experts say that some people are more sensitive to damp and mould, including: Babies and children Older people People with existing skin problems, like atopic eczema People with respiratory problems, like allergies and asthma People with a weakened immune system, including those undergoing chemotherapy How does mould affect your health in the long term? Doctors say the main problem with mould is that it produces allergens apart from irritants and even toxic substances, which, when you inhale, lead to deadly symptoms. You may suffer from respiratory issues, infection of the airways with the fungus, skin allergies, asthma, immune system issues, and even mental health issues. Those who live in damp and mouldy homes are at increased risk of depression and anxiety attacks, which, experts believe, can, in turn, increase the risk of respiratory symptoms and asthma. In addition, damp and mould were estimated to contribute to 1 to 2 per cent of new cases of allergic rhinitis – a condition causing nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itching. Ways to treat a mould allergy While you cannot cure mold allergies, one of the most important ways to manage them is by avoiding mould. This includes avoiding environments in which mold grows easily, like damp places or piles of wet leaves. Medications can help relieve your symptoms. These may include: Antihistamine pills Over-the-counter nasal steroids Nasal antihistamine sprays that you breathe in through your nose If you have asthma, your doctor may suggest medications like inhaled corticosteroids. You may also be suggested to take allergy shots or immunotherapy.
