How Mold Affects Your Health
When most people think of mold, they picture black spots in a damp corner or a musty smell in the basement. However, mold isn't always visible, and it doesn't always appear where you expect it. It can grow quietly in your home and affect your health in ways that are easy to miss at first. If you've been feeling sick and can't figure out why, mold exposure could be part of the problem.
Mold Can Hide in Places You Don't See
It's a common misconception that mold only grows in areas with water damage. But mold doesn't always need standing water. It can grow in places with high humidity or even inside walls and vents where there's just enough moisture in the air. That means you may not see mold, but it can still be in your home. Over time, mold spreads by releasing tiny spores into the air. Breathing in those spores can affect your body, especially if you're exposed to them regularly.
What Mold Exposure Can Feel Like
The side effects of mold can feel like other common health issues, which makes it easy to overlook. You might experience:
Stuffy or runny nose
Frequent sneezing or coughing
Itchy eyes or skin
Headaches or brain fog
Feeling tired all the time
Some people develop rashes, sinus infections, or breathing problems. If you have asthma or allergies, mold exposure can make symptoms worse. Children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems may be more sensitive to these effects. One sign that mold might be the cause is when you feel better after leaving your home, but your symptoms return when you come back. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. And it's not all in your head. Your home could be affecting how you feel.
What You Can Do
If you think mold might be a problem, it's very important to have your home inspected. Mold often hides in areas such as behind walls, under floors, or within heating and cooling systems. A trained professional can determine the source of the issue and how severe the problem may be.
If mold is found, it's essential to have it removed safely. Bleach or paint won't fix it. The mold will return unless the source is identified and corrected. Professional mold removal includes cleaning up the mold and stopping it from growing again.
To help keep mold away in the future:
Fix any leaks right away
Use fans or open windows when cooking or showering
Keep indoor humidity low, especially in basements and bathrooms
Clean gutters and make sure water drains away from your home
You Deserve to Feel Well in Your Own Home
The effects of mold can impact your comfort, focus, sleep, and long-term health. If you've been feeling unwell and can't identify the cause, it's worth checking for mold. At Break The Mold, we care about and prioritize your health and your peace of mind. If something doesn't feel right in your home, we're here to help you find answers. Don't wait. Contact us today and get your home professionally inspected for the safety of everyone in your home.