When inhaled, even in small amounts, all mold can cause a range of health problems including respiratory problems (wheezing), nasal and sinus congestion, watery and red eyes, nose and throat irritation, aches and pains, fevers, and in some cases, even death.  Mold can also cause damage to your home.  Exposure to mold is not healthy for anyone, but the following are at higher risk for adverse health effects: infants, children, elderly, immune compromised patients, pregnant women, and individuals with existing respiratory conditions.

 

Mold is a microscopic organism found virtually everywhere, indoors and outdoors.  Mold spores are very tiny, lightweight, and easily detached by airflow, vacuuming, walking on carpet, or sitting on a couch.  In indoor environments, they grow in air-conditioning ducts, carpets, pots of house plants, etc.  They produce and release millions of spores, which are small enough to stay airborn, threatening to invade the human respiratory system.  Mold growths can often be seen in the form of discoloration, ranging from white to orange and from green to brown and black.  In large quantities, mold can cause allergic symptoms similar to those caused by plant pollen.  In order for mold to grow, it needs food sources (such as leaves, wood, paper, or dirt), a source of moisture, and a place to grow.