Mold exposure can have serious health effects, particularly for individuals with allergies or compromised immune systems. If you detect mold growth in your home, it’s important to address it promptly with the help of a professional mold remediation specialist in Florida. The common services you might need include mold detection, mold removal, and mold remediation.
Before diving into the symptoms of mold exposure, let’s first understand what mold is and how it affects our health.
Call ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief at (813) 295-7797 or message us online for professional mold remediation service.
What is Mold?
Mold is a fungus composed of small organisms that can be found indoors and outdoors. It can appear in various colors, such as black, white, orange, green, yellow, pink, or even purple. In the outdoors, mold is important in breaking down dead organic matter like leaves, plants, and trees.
However, mold becomes a problem indoors, especially in areas with excess moisture. Mold spores are microscopic and airborne, and while exposure to small amounts is usually harmless, mold can thrive in moist environments and grow rapidly. Once it spreads, it can cause structural damage to your home and pose health risks to those living inside.
Where Does Mold Grow in Homes?
Mold thrives in areas with high humidity and moisture. It can grow on various surfaces in your home, including:
- Walls
- Floors
- Carpets
- Furniture
- Appliances (like washing machines, refrigerators, etc.)
The most common areas for mold growth include:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry Rooms
- Basements
- Crawl Spaces
- Closets
Symptoms of Mold Exposure
Mold exposure affects different people in different ways, and symptoms can vary depending on the individual’s sensitivity, existing health conditions, and the extent of mold exposure. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Muscle Aches and Cramps
- Headaches
- Light Sensitivity
- Sinus Issues (Congestion, Coughing)
- Shortness of Breath
- Tearing or Red Eyes
- Numbness and Tingling
- Skin Sensitivity
- Mood Swings
- Appetite Changes
- Night Sweats
- Vertigo
- Persistent Cold or Flu-like Symptoms
People who are more vulnerable to mold-related illnesses include:
- Infants and children
- Elderly individuals
- People with compromised immune systems (such as those with HIV, cancer, or chronic lung diseases)
- People undergoing chemotherapy
Signs of Mold in Your Home
It’s important to be aware of the signs that may indicate mold growth in your home. Here are some warning signs to watch for:
- Visible Mold Spores: If you can see mold spots, it's a clear sign of mold growth.
- Lingering Cold or Flu-like Symptoms: You may feel unwell with symptoms that persist without improvement.
- Musty or Damp Smell: Mold often produces a distinctive, unpleasant odor.
- Frequent Nosebleeds: Some people experience nosebleeds due to mold exposure.
- Headaches: Regular headaches that worsen over time could be linked to mold.
- Breathing or Respiratory issues: Difficulty breathing or asthma flare-ups could signal mold in your home.
- Water damage or Moisture Collection: Mold is more likely to grow in areas that have experienced flooding or have consistent moisture buildup.
How to Get Rid of Mold
- Fix leaks immediately: Don’t let water damage go untreated.
- Ventilate rooms: Ensure proper ventilation in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- Use dehumidifiers: Keep humidity below 50% to discourage mold growth.
- Clean and dry spills: Don’t let water or moisture sit for long periods.
Although it’s impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores, the best course of action is to seek professional mold remediation services.
Why Hire a Professional Mold Remediation Expert?
Attempting to remove mold on your own is not recommended, especially if the mold covers a large area or is toxic. Professional mold remediation experts, like ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief, have specialized training and equipment to handle mold safely and effectively.
Our team of IICRC-certified professionals uses proven techniques to detect, remove, and remediate mold from both residential and commercial properties. We pride ourselves on keeping our clients informed throughout the entire process, ensuring complete satisfaction.
Contact Us for Mold Remediation in Florida
If you suspect mold in your home or business, don’t hesitate to contact us for prompt and reliable service. We proudly serve Oldsmar, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Pinellas Park, Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, Safety Harbor, and surrounding areas in Florida.
Call ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief at (813) 295-7797 or send us a message to learn more about our mold remediation services.
