The truth about black mold health effects

By Danny  Gonzalez

Every year thousands of households in the United States suffer water damage caused by catastrophic flooding or the bursting of an old water pipe. Coping with the stress of costly repairs is difficult enough without worrying about a potential toxic black mold infestation. Yet, myths about the alleged severe adverse health effects of black mold still persist. These myths persist, even though the facts point to other causes of reported cases of black mold poisoning.

What is black mold?

Black mold (Stachybotrys Chartarum) is a relatively common fungus that lives in soil. A moist, humid environment is the perfect breeding ground for an unsightly black mold infestation. Something as harmless as a leaky roof can cause black mold to spread quickly.  It can spread through walls, ceilings, and even carpets, in some cases, according to Berlin D. Nelson, a phytopathologist at North Dakota State University.

Also, black mold is easily identified by a musty, humid odor and the presence of black and dark green patches on walls or ceilings. In some cases black mold can thrive underneath a ruined, soaked carpet too.

So what are the health effects of black mold exposure?

More often than not, reported cases of “black mold sickness” relate to a pre-existing allergy or chronic condition. Children have a higher risk of experiencing adverse reactions too, especially kids with chronic asthma and other respiratory conditions.

The Centers for Disease Control advises home owners to be aware of allergy-like reactions after exposure to black mold. Wheezing, skin irritation, rash and nasal/sinus inflammations are a few common symptoms for example. There is also evidence that people with weak immune systems are at a higher risk of developing opportunistic infections.

How do I remove black mold?

The truth about black mold is that minor infestations are rather easy to clean. Commercial black mold removal products and a simple bleach solution work equally as well. But in cases of major water damage the infected materials will have to be removed by a professional with the proper protective equipment.