Water damage can create any number of problems for homeowners. It can ruin your beautifully painted walls or even the new carpets you just had installed. But, if not taken care of properly, the aesthetic damages are the least of your concerns. If you don’t enlist professionals for your water damage clean-up, the consequences can be detrimental! Even though it may look like the water has dried up, if not cared for properly, it can become a nasty breeding ground for black mould.
What Is Black Mould?
This form of mould, also called Stachybotrys Chartarum, has a slightly misleading name because it presents itself in the form of black and green spots and blemishes. This toxic substance thrives in moist, dark conditions, typically found on organic materials and cellulose-rich surfaces like drywall or fibreboard. It’s usually accompanied by a musty odour, which you should have no trouble detecting as it’s relatively potent. When water is left to dry on its own on a surface like a carpet, for example, black mould is likely to appear.
Risks Of Black Mould Exposure
The complications arising from black mould exposure are most harmful to those that already suffer from respiratory issues, such as those affected by asthma or allergies, as the mould can exacerbate their symptoms. Individuals with weakened immune systems are also more susceptible to complications. Even babies, infants and children are at risk, with exposure creating an increased likeliness of developing asthma at an older age. Although few scientific studies support the negative effects black mould exposure has on your health, there’s no doubt that it is bad just the same. It is still universally accepted that mould is harmful to human health nonetheless. If you find black mould in your home, don’t panic, just contact a professional to help with the mould clean-up.
Symptoms Of Exposure
The symptoms that exposure to black mould pose on your health can begin as relatively mild, but risk developing into something dangerous. The most telltale signs are coughing and chronic wheezing and any other issues with breathing. Those affected by black mould have reported suffering from sore throats, watery eyes and frequent sneezing. Some people have even reported rashes and chronic fatigue due to exposure. To help you remember the signs of exposure to black mould spores, keep in mind that they’re very similar to flu-like symptoms! The longer the exposure to black mould, the more likely it will develop into something more. It can create symptoms like shortness of breath, fever and nausea. If left untreated, the symptoms can play a significant role in the development of pneumonia. If there’s any uncertainty about whether or not you may have black mould in your home, you should contact a professional for a consultation. The importance of mould inspection, mould remediation and mould removal are crucial to you and your family’s health. If you’re looking for water damage clean-up in Mississauga, the ONT Restoration team has got you covered!