Mold is a type of fungus that is found both indoors and outdoors. It is commonly found in damp or humid areas, such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Mold can also be found on wet clothing, shoes, and other fabrics.
Mold spores are tiny and invisible to the naked eye. When mold spores are present in the air, they can be inhaled into the lungs. Some people are allergic to mold and can have difficulty breathing, sneezing, and watery eyes when they are exposed to it. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions may be more susceptible to the effects of mold.
Mold can also cause health problems in people who are not allergic to it. Mold can cause infections in the lungs and other parts of the body. It can also trigger asthma attacks. In some cases, mold exposure has been linked to cancer.
If you think you may be allergic to mold, it is important to see a doctor for an allergy test. If you are allergic to mold, you can take steps to avoid exposure to it. These steps include:
-Keeping your home clean and dry
-Using a dehumidifier
-Ventilating damp areas
-Wearing a mask when cleaning moldy areas
-Avoiding moldy areas
If you have a mold allergy, it is also important to carry an emergency epinephrine injection with you in case you have a severe reaction.