How Does Mold Affect My Asthma?

Household mold and asthma make a dangerous combination. If you are allergic to mold, it could be making your asthma worse. Or, if you’ve suddenly developed asthma symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing, you might actually have a mold allergy. The experts at My Pure Environment know that mold has a direct effect on respiratory health, especially if you suffer from asthma. Here’s how to get household mold under control, so you can breathe easy again.

Does Mold Aggravate Asthma?

Yes—for people who are sensitive to mold exposure, breathing mold spores will only make their asthma worse. Mold causes an allergic reaction in about 1 in 4 people. If your body lacks the genetic ability to produce mold-fighting antigens, mold spores will trigger allergic reactions and aggravate chronic respiratory illnesses like asthma. If your asthma symptoms have grown worse, there could be mold growing undetected somewhere in your home.

Household Mold and Asthma

Mold often grows out of sight in attics or basements or behind the walls, but just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it can’t affect you. No matter where the mold is hiding, its allergenic spores will circulate throughout your entire home. You could be completely unaware that you’re breathing mold-contaminated air until your asthma symptoms take a turn for the worse.

Mold and Asthma in Children

Kids are even more vulnerable to mold exposure than adults. There are now over 60 studies correlating penicillium aspergillus and asthma development in children. According to some studies upwards of 40% of children that have asthma have it because of toxic mold conditions in their homes.

How to Control Household Mold

1. Keep humidity levels around 50%. Mold thrives in humid conditions. Investing in a dehumidifier can help keep mold at bay.

2. Get an air purifier or some air-purifying houseplants. Eliminating mold spores from your indoor air will help control allergic reactions.

3. Keep bathrooms and basements clean and well-ventilated. Don’t let humidity build up in your bathroom or laundry room—always run the fan when you shower or open a window afterward. Clean any mold-prone areas with a white vinegar or bleach solution to help prevent mold growth.

4. Repair any water damage. The number one cause of household mold growth is water damage! Inspect your home regularly for signs of leaks in the roof, foundation, and plumbing.

5. Seek professional mold remediation. The best way to get rid of household mold and keep it from growing back is to hire an expert. Professional mold remediation services are the only truly effective way to eliminate mold from your home.

Mold Remediation Services in Spokane

Household mold and asthma don’t mix! If there is mold in your home, the sooner you get it removed, the sooner your health will improve. The experts at My Pure Environment in Spokane, Washington can help you get rid of mold for good. Our fast-acting, demolition-free mold removal services come with a 12-month guarantee. Start breathing easier—schedule a free initial inspection today.

Photo by Sahej Brar on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 12/12/2021.