Black Mold Symptoms: What You Can Expect if You Are Exposed in Eldersburg, MD

What is Black Mold?

One shade, many kinds. The black mold Stachybotrys chartarum belongs to an extensive family of molds.​​ Several other species of black mold can adversely affect human health as well. Because black mold contains melanin, which gives it its color, it is called black mold. 

Is it common?

Molds require humidity levels of 35% to 70%, but black molds prefer humidity levels over 90%. Black mold is generally associated with high humidity areas, whereas common mold is present throughout your Eldersburg, MD house. 

Where is mold found in a home?

For example, if you suspect black mold, you might want to check the humidity levels in smaller microenvironments such as sweating pipes, under sink cabinets, front-loading washers, water overflowing areas, roof leaks, moist cars, and windows that have condensation. In general, the kitchen, the bathroom, and the laundry room are the most common places for mold to grow.

How can you be exposed to black mold?

In contrast to other molds, black mold's spores are sticky and stick to surfaces, especially when the colony dries. Unless the mold colony has been disturbed, those spores aren't normally found in the air. The spores of black mold are not readily airborne, but there are other hazardous contaminants they can produce. The disruption of a black mold colony can occur by opening windows, slamming doors, or knocking furniture over. 

Signs and symptoms of black mold poisoning

You may experience your typical allergy symptoms after being exposed to black mold, but it is important to remember that non-allergic, mold-related illnesses may also present similar symptoms, despite appearing to be unrelated. Mycotoxins or mixed molds can cause neurological and behavioral symptoms in those exposed to them. 

All in all, mold is likely to cause problems for anyone sensitive to it.

• Nasal stuffiness
• Throat irritation
• Coughing or wheezing
• Eye or skin irritation

Mold exposure can trigger more severe reactions in people with mold allergies or asthma, including:

• Fever
• Shortness of breath

Non-allergic symptoms of mold include, but are not limited to:

• Cognitive impairment
• Depression
• Sleep disturbance
• Balance difficulties
• Brain fog
• Circulation issues
• Swelling
• Digestive complaints
• Fatigue
• Vision changes
• Anxiety
• Muscular pain
• Joint pain
• Dizziness
• Neurological complaints

How to get rid of black mold

Identifying black mold by color is difficult due to its ability to look green or black. You should hire an experienced mold inspector if you suspect mold growth yet cannot see it. Ensure that the mold inspector you hire has been accredited by the American Council for Accredited Certification.

How to prevent black mold

• Control humidity
• Clean surfaces regularly
• Maintain good ventilation
• Use an air purifier

In spite of black mold's harmful effects, there are methods to get rid of it and prevent its growth. Mold accumulation and its harmful effects in the air can be prevented with the steps above and the removal of visible mold.

Mold can affect anyone in your family, so call Restoration 1 of Central Maryland and take care of it immediately!