You might have seen alarming warnings about black mould in homes, often portrayed in the media as a major health risk.
But how does it actually impact your health? It’s known that being around black mould can cause a variety of symptoms, from mild allergies to serious breathing problems.
However, how badly someone is affected depends on their personal sensitivity and how long they’ve been exposed to the mould.
What’s often not talked about is the science behind these reactions and the real danger they pose to different people.
So, what are the facts behind the headlines, and how could they impact you?
Understanding Black Mould
Black mould, primarily known as Stachybotrys chartarum, thrives in wet, cellulose-rich environments such as your basement or bathroom. It appears dark green or black and feeds on materials such as paper, wood, and plasterboard when they’re damp.
To grow, it needs moisture levels above 70%, a reliable food source, and temperatures between 4°C to 38°C.
You’ll often find black mould in areas prone to water leaks and flooding, emitting a musty odour due to microbial volatile organic compounds. These compounds are released as the mould digests its cellulose-rich food sources.
While being near these areas, you might notice this distinct smell, indicating the presence of mould even if it isn’t visible.
It’s important to understand that while this mould can produce mycotoxins, substances that may cause allergies and respiratory problems, it’s not uniquely dangerous compared to other moulds.
Many types of mould can produce similar toxins under the right conditions. Understanding these facts helps you better manage and reduce mould growth in your home, ensuring a healthier living environment.
Health Risks and Symptoms From Black Mould
Exposure to black mould can lead to a variety of symptoms, especially if you’re sensitive to allergens. You may experience sneezing, coughing, and nasal congestion, along with red, itchy eyes. These are typical reactions, especially if your body quickly reacts to environmental triggers.
If you have asthma, the presence of black mould can worsen your condition. You might notice an increase in wheezing, find it more difficult to breathe, and experience tightness in your chest. This is particularly challenging if you already have respiratory issues; black mould just adds another layer of discomfort.
For those with weakened immune systems, the risks are greater. Exposure doesn’t only cause irritation; it can lead to fungal infections, which are more difficult to treat and can result in more serious health issues.
However, it’s important to note that for most people, black mould doesn’t lead to severe illness. While it does activate the immune system, causing noticeable allergy and respiratory symptoms, the fears of it causing severe conditions like acute idiopathic pulmonary haemorrhage in infants aren’t supported by scientific evidence.
Diagnosis and Testing Methods
To determine if you have an allergy to black mould, doctors begin by reviewing your symptoms and medical history. They may then refer you to an allergist who specialises in identifying the cause of your reactions.
To accurately diagnose your condition, various tests might be conducted. A common procedure is the skin prick test. In this test, a tiny amount of black mould allergen is placed on your skin, typically on the forearm or back, and the area is then gently pricked. If you’re allergic, a reaction such as a raised bump usually appears within 15 minutes. However, this test can sometimes provide incorrect results.
Another method is a blood test, which checks for specific IgE antibodies to black mould in your blood. This approach may take longer, with results taking up to a week, and it can also produce incorrect results.
For a thorough diagnosis, your allergist may evaluate your individual allergic reactions. This assessment aids in developing a treatment plan that effectively manages your symptoms.
In situations where a systemic fungal infection is suspected, additional tests, including blood sample analysis, may be required depending on your risk factors and clinical symptoms.
Treatment and Management Options
To effectively manage symptoms caused by black mould exposure, it’s important to start with treatments that relieve discomfort. Antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops are often recommended for allergy symptoms. These can help ease your runny nose, itchy eyes, and other annoying effects.
If you often encounter mould and suffer from ongoing symptoms, immunotherapy, or allergy injections, could be helpful. This treatment slowly increases your tolerance to mould allergens, possibly reducing your sensitivity over time.
Besides medical treatments, it’s critical to control your environment. Keeping indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% can significantly restrict mould growth and help manage your symptoms. Using a dehumidifier to maintain these levels, especially in damp areas of your home like basements and bathrooms, is advisable.
Consulting a healthcare provider is essential, particularly if you have asthma or a compromised immune system. They can create a management plan that suits your specific health needs, including both medical treatments and environmental adjustments.
Lastly, using air purifiers with HEPA filters in your living spaces can capture mould spores from the air, reducing your exposure and providing relief from symptoms. Regular cleaning and promptly addressing water-damaged materials are also crucial in keeping mould at bay.
How to Get Rid of Black Mould
Identifying and removing sources of moisture is your initial step in addressing black mould removal, as mould thrives in wet conditions.
Since mould grows in environments with humidity above 70%, it’s crucial to fix any leaks or dampness promptly.
Here is how you can effectively remove black mould:
- Evaluate the Extent of the Infestation: If the area affected by mould is less than 10 square metres, you can handle it yourself. For larger areas, seek professional assistance.
- Prepare Your Cleaning Mixture: For minor infestations, mix dish soap with water. This mixture is suitable for cleaning mould from hard surfaces.
- Dispose of Severely Infested Items: Items such as carpets or furniture that have been wet for more than 48 hours should be discarded. This is difficult but necessary to prevent further spread of mould.
- Control Humidity: Employ dehumidifiers and ensure good ventilation to maintain indoor humidity below 50%. This not only helps in mould removal but also prevents its future growth.
Prevention and Safety Measures
After removing black mould, your next step is to prevent its return. Keep indoor humidity levels below 50%, as levels above 70% are ideal for mould growth. Use a hygrometer to monitor these levels.
Regularly check for leaks and water damage, particularly in areas like bathrooms and basements, and repair them promptly to stop moisture from encouraging mould growth.
Do not neglect the need for proper ventilation. In areas such as your kitchen and bathroom, use exhaust fans or open a window slightly to help reduce humidity and improve air circulation. This step is vital for keeping mould away.
Consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas around your home. They help control moisture and make conditions less favourable for black mould.
Also, be thorough in cleaning and drying surfaces, especially after spills or flooding. If wet materials are left, you have just 48 hours before mould may begin to grow.
Removing these materials quickly can greatly reduce the risk of a mould infestation, making your home safer and healthier.
Do You Need Black Mould Removed?
We at Restore Pro offer professional black mould removal services in Auckland. If you have mould in your home, give us a call now on 0800 843-776.