When most homeowners find or is told that there is mold in their home – a certain sense of panic arises. There is general concern that mold can be a very dangerous thing, and this is true but there are certain types of mold that are more dangerous than others.
So, what mold is dangerous in a house? – We consider any type of mold to be dangerous. There are certain types of molds that may be less harmful than others but that entirely depends on the amount of mold, the duration of your exposure to the mold and your current physical health status.
There are 12 different types of mold that are commonly found in residential properties.
- Acremonium – often found in humidifiers, cooling coils, drain pans and window sealants. Considered very dangerous.
- Alternaria – often found in areas exposed to moisture such as showers, bathtubs, under sinks, etc. May cause asthma like symptoms.
- Aspergillus – often found on compost piles, dead leaves or other decaying vegetation. May cause asthma like symptoms.
- Aureobasidium – often found behind wallpaper and painted surfaces. May cause infections of eye, skin and nails.
- Chaetomium – often found in structures with water damage. May cause infections of skin and nails.
- Cladosporium – often found in indoor fabrics, carpets and upholstery. May cause allergic reactions to eyes, nose, throat and skin.
- Fusarium – often found in structures with water damage. May cause skin infections, cold like symptoms and dermatitis.
- Mucor – often found near HVAC units and ductwork. May cause respiratory problems.
- Penicillin – often found in structures with water damage. May cause respiratory problems such as pulmonary inflammation and asthma like symptoms.
- Stachybotrys – often found in damp areas with high humidity levels. Produces mycotoxins that may cause severe health problems such as sinusitis, fatigue, difficulty breathing, depression, aches and pains, nose bleeds, fever and painful headaches.
- Trichoderma – often found on wet and moist surfaces. May cause pulmonary and liver infections.
- Ulocladium – often found in kitchens, bathrooms, basements and around windows where there is high condensation levels. May cause skin infections and asthma like symptoms.
Note: ALL MOLD may be dangerous to individuals with a lowered immune system such as small children, the elderly and/or disabled.
No matter what type of mold you may have found in your home – it’s important to get the mold removed immediately.
Is Living In A House With Mold Dangerous?
Each person’s reaction to exposure to mold will be different depending on their current physical condition. As I mentioned earlier, ALL Mold can be dangerous to anyone who has a lowered immunity such as small children, elderly and disabled persons.
Can it kills you? That depends on the amount of exposure, the duration and of course your physical health. But, it certainly can kill you if all the conditions are in place.
How Can You Tell If Mold Is Dangerous?
We recommend that you consider all mold dangerous. If you find evidence of mold in your home – address the issue immediately and have it professional removed.
Can You Get Sick From Mold In Your House?
Yes, again, depending on the type of mold, the duration of exposure and your current physical health. You can most certainly experience a variety of symptoms (as I’ve listed above) because of the mold in your house.
If you are having problems with your plumbing system, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-443-8229. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.