Mould is a common growth across the UK that utilises its spores to remain unseen, but their impact is far from invisible. From allergies to debilitating respiratory conditions, this growth can affect the overall quality of life in your home and destroy the structural integrity in the process.

If you are struggling with mould issues, you can rely on the experts at ICE Cleaning to step in and remove mould at the source. Its technicians utilise modern technology and industrial-grade solutions to remediate mould and prevent its return.

Read on to learn more about the hidden health risks of mould, what causes these problems and how to spot them early.

Uncovering the hidden health risks of mould

Studies show that mould exposure can lead to chronic respiratory issues and allergies and even impact mental health. The cause is mycotoxins – toxic substances produced by mould – easily inhaled toxins, leading to persistent coughs, sneezing fits, or worse conditions like asthma.

Fighting against mould-related health problems includes eliminating visible growths and preventing their recurrence. Other studies have recently shown that occupants of environments that experience water damage, damp, and mould exposure develop chronic adverse health effects.

These patients often remain chronically ill after this exposure, suggesting that mycotoxins remain internally present in their bodies long after they have left the environment. Some of these chronic illnesses include:

• Lower and upper respiratory disease
• Central and peripheral neurological deficits
• Chronic fatigue
• Chronic fungal sinusitis

The science behind mould-related health problems

Mould releases spores and toxins that we can inhale or ingest without realising until it is too late. These spores enter our bodies and trigger respiratory issues such as asthma or allergies.

The NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre suggests that prolonged mould exposure may also lead to chronic conditions.

The microscopic size of these spores allows them to float in the air undetected until they find somewhere damp enough to land and start growing. This is why people often do not realise they have a health issue until symptoms begin showing.

Allergies from mould extend beyond sneezing, triggering various symptoms, including skin rashes, watery eyes, headaches, and severe reactions like shortness of breath or chest tightness.

Detecting and preventing mould-related health issues

The first step to mould prevention is to be vigilant for common signs of mould growth, like musty odours or dark spots on walls. Symptoms of mould exposure can often mimic a common cold: runny nose, skin rash, eye irritation and coughing.

It is easy to mistake these symptoms for something less serious. However, if they persist despite treatment or improve when away from home only to worsen upon return – this might indicate an issue with indoor air quality due to a mould presence.

Start by investigating damp areas such as bathrooms and basements where conditions favour its growth. Cleaning visible mould yourself is unsafe without professional help.

Mould remediation experts use innovative technology to discover the root cause of mould, effectively targeting it at the source and preventing its return.

To prevent mould from growing or returning, ensure there is adequate ventilation throughout your home – particularly in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Regularly check pipes for leaks and dry clothes outside whenever possible rather than indoors.

If the mould problem persists or you are dealing with black mould, it is time to call in professionals from companies like ICE Cleaning, who can help effectively deal with your mould issues. Its experts operate nationwide and can be on-site within the first few hours of your call to help.

You can learn more about its services at its website, where it provides tips and tricks on mould prevention.