If you’ve discovered or suspect you have mold in your home or workplace, the next most common question is whether it is dangerous. Not all molds are created equal. Some consider certain types of mold toxic, while others view them as less of a hindrance. While no mold is good in the home or workplace, some types fall into the most dangerous mold category. That is what today’s blog post on mold remediation in Chicago will cover. These molds will cause the most harm to your home and your body, especially with long-term exposure.
The most dangerous molds are considered toxic and deadly or harmful to humans. Many people believe that toxic mold is one type of mold, but hundreds of species of mold can be highly damaging to the human body. Black mold is the most commonly known name for toxic mold among the public. People name black mold simply because of its color and appearance. However, it is essential to understand that poisonous mold can appear in any color.
Where do the most dangerous molds grow?
The most dangerous molds grow in the same areas that all mold grows in. Any place that is dark and accumulates moisture is a potential area for mold to grow. Mold can grow on just about any organic surface in your home or place of work as long as the conditions are right. Moisture sources can be anything from high humidity to a flood. The most common moisture sources are from leaks in the home that allow water from outside to come inside.
Because there are thousands of mold species in the world, it is nearly impossible to remove them all. We are exposed to mold every day since it grows inside and outside. Mold has its place in nature. But we can and should keep our homes from becoming breeding grounds, especially for the most dangerous molds.
The Most Dangerous Molds
Toxic molds fall into five categories. Those categories are Penicillium, Fusarium, Stachybotrys, Aspergillus, and Cladosporium. Each category includes many species of mold, and they have various harmful qualities. Symptoms range from allergy-type reactions to deadly illnesses. During mold removal, you can find all five categories of mold growing indoors in homes. It can grow in sneaky places such as in your basement, under your carpet, and inside your walls.
Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys, also known as black mold, is an extremely dangerous fungus. Mold species under this genus produce mycotoxins wherever disturbed, which can cause a long list of serious infections. They usually grow on materials containing cellulose that have remained damp for an extended period. Such surfaces include cardboard and gypsum board, ceiling tiles, wood, and other organic materials, thus the need for mold removal.
Researchers have linked Stachybotrys to severe illness in young infants.
People with compromised immune systems, small children, and the elderly are highly susceptible to illness when they come in contact with this species of mold. Some symptoms associated with exposure to Stachybotrys include (but are not limited to):
- respiratory issues
- nasal and sinus congestion
- eye irritation
- a sore throat
- cough
- chronic fatigue
- central nervous system issues
- aches and pains
Penicillium
There are about 200 known species of Penicillium molds found in the air or soil. Their main purpose is to cause food and other perishable goods to spoil, and their presence usually indicates high moisture levels in the environment. Indoors, they will cling to various damp surfaces, such as walls and wallpapers, floors, and carpets. Their colors range from blue and yellow to green and white.
Experts have connected these mold families to illnesses such as nail fungus, asthma, and infections of the lungs, liver, and kidneys.
Cladosporium
Cladosporium is a very common mold and one of the most dangerous molds. This genus comes in green, brown, gray, or black and is comprised of around 40 species. Common gathering spots include painted walls, wood, carpets, wallpapers, and other damp organic surfaces.
Chronic cases of Cladosporium may produce pulmonary edema and emphysema.
Fusarium
Fusarium springs to life even at lower temperatures and is often spotted growing on water-damaged carpeting and fabrics. Its prolonged presence can cause mild allergic reactions, asthma, and severe respiratory conditions. It is usually orange in color.
Researchers believe Fusarium may cause certain types of gastrointestinal illnesses and have linked it to diseases affecting the female reproductive system.
Aspergillus
The Aspergillus mold family is the least serious of the most dangerous mold groups, consisting of almost 200 species. Only 16 of those cause illness in humans, none fatal if treated. The mold is yellow-greenish in color and often encountered indoors. Neglecting its presence can lead to respiratory infections or even cause lung inflammation, a condition known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
During their natural growth, toxic molds produce chemicals that are classified as toxins or poisons. The types found to affect human health profoundly are labeled poisonous mold.
Conclusion
We share our world with mold, and while we can’t eliminate it, we can keep it out of our homes and other spaces where we spend time. With thousands of types of mold, it is essential to manage its presence. The categories covered today are known to be the most dangerous or toxic molds. They can be hazardous if allowed to grow inside the home or if we are exposed to them long-term. We should always take the proper precautions to protect ourselves and our loved ones by eliminating environments where mold can grow. If you find mold in your home, it is crucial to identify the type so that you can take the correct steps to remediate and remove it. Contacting a professional mold removal company in Chicago can help determine if you have one of the most dangerous molds and guide you in the proper treatment.
For more information on professional mold remediation in Barrington, contact us now!