Damp and Mould: Key Health Risks Every Homeowner Should Know

Damp and mould often go hand-in-hand because damp creates ideal conditions for the growth of mould. The pair result in a rather unsightly combination when they appear on people’s walls, ceilings, and furniture, but it is a mistake to think that they are merely cosmetic issues. In reality, there is much more to worry about than how they look. Mould spores have been linked to numerous health risks, which we will explore in this article.

Respiratory Problems

Noticing a mould smell in your house is never pleasant, but did you know that it can actually be dangerous? Even in healthy people, inhaling mould spores can irritate the lungs, nose, and throat. It can also cause coughing, shortness of breath, and a blocked nose. However, the effects can be even worse for people with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis, as it can drastically worsen their symptoms and lead to more frequent attacks.

Allergies

Mould is also a potent allergen and can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and rashes on the skin. It can be much more severe for people with allergies to other environmental factors, like pollen, but even in those who are only mildly sensitive to it, it puts their immune system on continuous high alert. That’s not healthy, so it’s important to get a mould specialist to eliminate the problem as quickly as possible.

Asthma Development

We have already discussed how mould-ridden environments can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma, but in severe cases it can cause people to develop them too. This is more common in young children who are exposed to these environments, because their lungs are still developing. Until you can invest in some long-term damp-proof solutions, protect those at risk of respiratory illnesses by using dehumidifiers and improving ventilation to keep the environment as dry and mould-free as possible.

Skin Irritation and Infections

It is not just respiratory illnesses that are made worse by mould spores. Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can also flare up, and even those without pre-existing conditions may experience dryness, itchiness, or rashes. This is partly because damp and humid air strips the skin of its natural protective barrier, making it more exposed to infections and irritation. Mould can also lead to fungal skin infections like ringworm and athlete’s foot.

Mental Health Impact

Damp and mould can be bad for your mental health as well as your physical health. This is partly because we know it is a problem that should be dealt with, and so every day that it’s not gone, we feel more frustrated about it and anxious about the state of our home. In severe cases, this constant worry can lead to high stress and even depression. It can also make us reluctant to host visitors, leading to isolation.

Mould and damp can have serious health consequences when they are not treated urgently. If you have noticed them in your home, start the process of eliminating them today by calling London Damp Proofing Ltd on 0208 226 6330.