Black Mold Allergy – Environmental Factors and Dangers
Toxic mold is another name for black mold. However, it should be noted that not all black mold are the type of toxic mold that is fatal. There are people who have black mold allergy, and this type of allergy is caused by a mold known as Stachybotrys chartarum. This type of black mold allergy is life threatening and it can be very dangerous when it happens frequently.
Why is the Stachybotrys chartarum such a dangerous type of mold? It is largely due to factors that affect the kind of environment the mold lives in. These factors include the type of matter that mold is on, as well as the humidity level and ph level. These factors all work in producing mycotoxins. It is exposure to the mycotoxins that can be harmful, even fatal, to human beings.
Again, although not all types of black mold are toxic, those black molds that are toxic are known to cause conditions that can adversely affect our health. It has been found that black mold allergy is caused by exposure to live molds, mold spores, and even dead mold.
Be aware that molds spread themselves through spores, and molds release their spores on a seasonal basis. Mold spores are typically airborne and they are what commonly cause black mold allergy.
Individuals who have respiratory conditions and ailments are the ones who have the highest risk of developing black mold allergy when they become exposed to black mold. Constant exposure to black mold can also cause infections or cause the immune system to become weak.
During spring and up to late fall are times when people tend to experience black mold allergy. During the winter, molds go into hibernation or they become dormant if they happen to be outdoors and are exposed to the cold. However, molds will continue to thrive regardless of the season if they are indoors where there is sufficient heat to ensure their survival. This is why even in places where the climate is warm black mold allergy can still occur, or people can develop black mold energy if they live in a warm of humid home even during the winter.
Individuals with black mold allergy often find relief from medications. Doctors prescribe corticosteroids, antihistamines, and bronchodilators for treating black mold allergy. In some cases, doctors prescribe immunotherapy. This method of treatment involves slowly exposing the individual to allergens starting from small doses and then gradually increasing the doses.
Black mold allergy can be prevented, but this requires keeping the home and environment clean. This can be achieved by using a dehumidifier and making sure the home is as dry as possible. In addition, proper food storage can prevent mold from forming, as well as making sure every area in the home is not a viable place for mold to grow and thrive.
Related Articles:
- When Mold Impacts Your Health: What is a Mold Allergy?
- What to Do About Mold and Pollen Allergies
- Mold Allergy Relief In The Home