Can Damp Affect My Health?
The short answer: yes. The truth is, although some extra moisture here and there may seem entirely harmless, it can lead to some significant adverse health risks. This isn’t necessarily due to the dampness itself but more because of what it can lead to, including the harmful growth of mold.
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about how harmful mold can truly be and who is most at risk. You’ll also have an acute understanding of why damp needs to be taken seriously. Let’s get into it.
Who Is Most at Risk From Health Issues Due To Damp?
No one is entirely safe from the negative impacts of damp and mold in the home, but certain groups are more vulnerable than others. These include:
- Babies and children
- Elderly people
- Those with existing respiratory problems, including allergies, asthma, and trouble swallowing
- Those with existing skin problems, such as eczema and regular inflammation
- Those with a weakened immune system, either due to genetics, chronic illness, or ongoing treatment (such as chemotherapy)
If any of the above live within your home, it’s vitally essential that damp and mold are dealt with swiftly to prevent the contraction or worsening of various conditions.
How Does Damp Affect My Health?
Damp environments provide the perfect environment for harmful mold to thrive. This mold can then release spores into the air, making the threat airborne. These spores are inhaled and irritate your throat and the entire respiratory system. Over time, these spores can cause a wide variety of unpleasant symptoms, including:
- Persistent coughing
- Fever (especially in children)
- Pain or pressure behind the face (sinus discomfort)
- Blocked or runny nose
- Continuous sneezing
- A sore throat
- Rashes
- Dry and cracked skin
- Itchy, watering eyes
Among other problems. A common misconception is that mold spores can cause asthma. While this isn’t the case, it’s certainly true that spores can significantly worsen asthma symptoms.
What Are the Effects of Sleeping in a Damp Room?
Sleep is essential for our health, so any disruption is bound to have a negative impact. This is especially true if you breathe in toxic spores throughout the night. If you often wake up with a sore throat, a tight chest, or nasal congestion, mold may be in your bedroom. You must act quickly to resolve this problem, as it won’t go away on its own and will only worsen over time.
What Causes Damp and Mold?
There are a variety of causes of damp and mold. The most prominent cause is an excess of moisture in your home, whether from a direct source (such as a burst pipe) or moisture in the air. Some common causes include washing clothes, showering, and cooking.
Many activities we use water for are unavoidable, so rather than removing the source, you simply need to add greater ventilation. However, sometimes the cause isn’t so mundane. Poor insulation, water damage, faulty plumbing, or excessive humidity can all significantly increase the likelihood of mold.
How Do You Prevent Damp?
The best solution to damp in your home is to limit the amount of moisture building. Improving your air-conditioning could be a strong start if your home suffers from high humidity, either due to its design or because of the climate where you live. It would be best to keep your home’s indoor humidity levels below 50 percent.
We also recommend staying on top of any signs of leaks or damage to pipes in your home. The tell-tale clues that you have a leak include damp patches along your walls and ceilings, in addition to an unexplained spike in your water bill. Exhaust fans in your bathroom and kitchen can also help to reduce the amount of moisture in the air.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Bad Is Damp for Your Health?
Damp can lead to mold spores, leading to various adverse health impacts, including nasal congestion, sore throat, rashes, fever, and respiratory infections.
How Quickly Can Damp Make You Ill?
If damp fosters mold growth, then it could take only a few days before you start to notice symptoms. These symptoms will only worsen over time, so you must act fast to solve the problem.
Final Thoughts
Mold is no joke, and although damp may seem like nothing more than an inconvenience at first, it can lead to significant problems. If you suspect your home suffers from excess damp and mold, contact All Dry USA today for a professional mold remediation solution. We stop mold in its tracks and help to keep you and your entire family safe from harmful side effects. Don’t hesitate to get in touch today!
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