We have all been told about the dangerous effects of mold exposure on our bodies, but is all mold created equal? The truth is that there are many different types of molds that can affect our bodies and our homes or businesses in many different ways.
Mold is classified into three different categories- allergenic, pathogenic, and toxic. Allergenic mold does exactly what you might think- causes allergy-like symptoms including respiratory issues, headaches, itchy, watery eyes, congestion or runny nose, itchy throat, etc. Then we have the pathogenic mold- these are mostly responsible for causing infections, especially in individuals who are immunocompromised. Lastly, we have toxic mold. This mold is highly dangerous for people and animals who come into contact with it and should be taken very seriously. If you have found mold in your home or business you may be wondering what exactly you are up against. Here are some examples of the mold you may find within your residential or commercial property.
Alternaria
Alternaria forms dark gray spots, and most commonly affects you outdoors causing symptoms like seasonal allergies. In order for Alternaria to thrive indoors, it requires a moist surface- generally made of wood, building materials, or textiles. If you are dealing with Alternaria, you will want to seek out mold removal right away, as this type of mold can spread like wildfire.
Aspergillus
Aspergillus is considered an allergenic mold, in general. There are certain species, however, that are classified as pathogenic mold. There is a lot of variation when you are dealing with Aspergillus. There are over 100 different species of this strain of mold, so it can be seen in a range of colors and shapes. Most people who come into contact with this sort of mold can experience allergic reactions. Depending on the individual and their immune system, however, the side effects could become much worse and affect your respiratory system or cause serious airway inflammation. Though it may seem rather harmless as far as mold goes, it should be dealt with right away to avoid the chance of exposing yourself to potential risks. In some cases, this type of mold can create aflatoxins, which are a deadly type of carcinogen
Stachybotrys
If you have ever heard of black mold then you already know about this type of toxic mold. Black or dark green and slimy, black mold requires moisture in order to settle indoors. Black mold is considered toxic because it creates mycotoxins, a type of carcinogen. It also can weaken your immune system and cause a wide range of health-related side effects.
Regardless of the type of mold you find in your home, you are going to want to contact a professional mold removal specialist- like the team at Urgent Restoration. The longer you are exposed to mold, the more damage it can cause you. Besides, no one enjoys feeling under the weather, and you should be proactive when it comes to your health. Not only do these molds affect your health and wellbeing, they affect your property as well. Mold can cause damage over time and leave you dealing with unpleasant side effects like warped floorboards, peeling paint or wallpaper, surface discoloration, and foul odors. Don’t spend another second in a home or business with mold. Call our mold removal experts at Urgent Restoration now!
Aaron Iannuzzi is the owner of Urgent Restoration with over a decade of experience in the restoration industry. Aaron started Urgent Restoration in 2018 and has locations in Florida and Georgia. The company specializes in water damage restoration, mold remediation, fire remediation and more. Aaron and his team of experienced technicians are proud to serve their communities to restore their homes and businesses back to normal.
