5 Scary Effects of Prolonged Mold Exposure

Did you know that just 18 hours of moisture damage after a flood or storm can lead to mold growth? At first, that mold growth may not seem a problem, but prolonged mold exposure is a life threatening condition not to be ignored. At ServiceMaster of Spartanburg, our team works closely with homeowners to ensure any mold present is properly and thoroughly removed.

What Happens When People Are Exposed to Mold Long Term?

Effective and fast cleaning of mold reduces health risks, ensures the highest level of clean, and safeguards the structural integrity of a home or business. However, when mold is allowed to grow and develop, the prolonged exposure risks are very worrisome. They may include any of these:

• Nasal and sinus congestion develops
• Skin and eye irritation occurs
• Nosebleeds become common
• Upper respiratory tract infections occur more frequently
• Cough and sore throats become more common
• Chest tightness and a feeling of being unable to breathe can occur
• Headaches can develop

These are the most common initial stages of long-term exposure. However, what’s really scary is what can happen if you continue to breathe in this mold for a period of months.

1. Cancer can develop because of a potent toxin produced by the mold called mycotoxin, a potential human carcinogen.
2. Pulmonary injury or lung damage can occur.
3. Severe allergic reactions can occur, leading to difficulty breathing.
4. Neurotoxicity develops over time.
5. Gastrointestinal and cardiac conditions can develop as well.

All of this comes from being poisoned by the mold. You do not have to be in the same room as it to be impacted either. That’s because mold spores travel through the building’s heating and cooling system allowing for the mold to spread easily. It is often breathed in putting those who are older, very young, or those who have weakened immune systems at a higher risk.

What Can Be Done About Mold?

Don’t put off that taking care of that little spot of mold you found or believe that you can properly treat it with at-home chemicals and cleaners. It is far more effective and safer to contact our team to come out to your home to provide a full mold inspection. Our professionals will work closely with you to identify where mold exists and to create a plan of action for ridding your home of the substance. This often extends beyond what you can see.

Proper mold remediation removes all presence of mold and can help you to breathe again. ServiceMaster can help you to achieve this.

What To Do Now

If you believe you have mold or you want to make sure you do not, contact ServiceMaster of Spartanburg today. Let us schedule an appointment with you to discuss what could be present and what can be done about it. Contact us today.