Most of us are familiar with the dark patches and musty smell that signals mould in damp places in our homes, but it is only recently that many people have become alert to its potential health hazards – through a slew of books, blogs and social media posts.
What is mould?
Moulds are fungi that reproduce by releasing spores into the air, and although they have little effect on most people, for those sensitive to them, and who have allergies and respiratory conditions, such as asthma, or a weakened immune system, the effects can range from unpleasant to serious.
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“Uncontrolled respiratory allergies may severely affect a person’s quality of life and negatively impact work performance. It may even dramatically influence a child’s academic performance at school,” says Dr Pieter de Waal, a Cape Town paediatrician and allergologist (a specialist trained in diagnosing and treating allergies). “In mould-allergic patients, if mould allergy is not effectively treated, it will lead to chronic, relapsing respiratory symptoms and frequent asthma exacerbations and may even be the cause of regular emergency room visits and hospitalisations.”
Who is at risk?
Signs of a mould reaction typically include nose, mouth or throat irritation, with sneezing, nasal stuffiness or runny nose, and red, itchy or watery eyes, sore throat, sinusitis and chest wheezing. In rare cases “hypersensitivity pneumonitis” can develop – inflammation of the lungs that can cause coughing, shortness of breath and tiredness that can last for months, and weight loss.
With persistent exposure, the inflammation can result in “scarring and permanent damage”, reports the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Symptoms often improve or completely disappear after a period of avoidance – for instance, during work holidays when the mould is at work – and return upon re-exposure to mould.
The Allergy Foundation of South Africa reports that 20 percent of asthmatic patients may be allergic to moulds. “Mould allergy occurs when someone whose immune system is oversensitive sees the mould spores as allergens and reacts to them,” it says.
Mould allergy may also be associated with a more severe form of asthma – these patients often struggle to control their asthma symptoms on conventional asthma treatment (asthma pumps) and unless specific anti-fungal treatment is prescribed, their symptoms may remain uncontrolled and may even become life-threatening.
“With more people spending time indoors, mould-driven respiratory complaints have increased over recent years,” Dr De Waal says. “Old office buildings, especially if these are poorly ventilated and water-damaged, may significantly contribute to mould-driven respiratory allergic diseases.”
How do you treat mould allergies?
Diagnosis of respiratory allergy is often made by family doctors. Further specialised testing can then determine if symptoms are related to mould or not. Blood testing can be performed to definitely prove mould allergy. Also, the family doctor may decide to refer a patient to an allergologist. They will in most instances perform a skin prick test, to diagnose mould hypersensitivity.
Skin prick testing is a non-painful procedure, usually done on the forearm, where the allergen is introduced into the superficial layers of the skin with a lancet. It takes about 20 minutes and is done routinely as part of an allergologist’s consultation, says Dr De Waal.
Pharmacotherapy (antihistamines, nasal sprays and/or asthma pumps), together with ongoing mould avoidance strategies, are the mainstay of treatment, he adds. “Some patients may benefit from mould-immunotherapy.” During this treatment, injections are given over a few years, to “train” the immune system to gradually become more tolerant to the allergen and to respond in a less vigorous way when re-exposed to it. Regular follow-up visits with a doctor or allergologist are required to determine the efficacy of treatment and to monitor a patient’s progress.
Although mould is most common in old buildings, it can also affect new ones when building standards slide and leaks and ventilation problems occur. And while some mould varieties can be seen and smelt, others can flourish undetected for years until their effects are felt.
How do you spot mould?
Check for obvious signs of mould, like discolouration, but if your health is affected, it may be a good idea to call a professional mould inspector, who will have the equipment to detect mould hidden in ceilings, under floors, or even growing into walls.
Mould will grow wherever there is moisture, and flourishes on paper products (books, cardboard, wallpaper), wood products (such as skirtings), insulation, drywall, carpeting and upholstery. Wherever it is, you need to remove it, or have this done professionally. Your and your family’s health is worth it.
How to prevent mould
- Ensure adequate ventilation and natural sunlight in enclosed spaces, such as work offices and classrooms.
- Check often for signs of water damage or mould.
- Fix leaky roofs, pipes or windows promptly.
- Open kitchen and bathroom windows for ventilation, and if need be, install an extractor fan.
- Do not have carpets in the kitchen, bathroom or basement.
- Clean up and dry thoroughly after leaks or flooding – bin flood-damaged carpeting and dry out other soft furnishings.
- Consider mould-resistant paint for walls and ceilings.
- Clean your kitchen and bathroom the moment you see mildew or mould form.
- Always wear protective clothing when cleaning mould away (dishwashing gloves, rubber boots, goggles).
- Scrub hard cleanable surfaces such as tiles and wood with soapy water and a bristle brush, or with commercial mould removal products or a mix of white vinegar and baking soda.
- Dry surfaces well afterwards to prevent future growth.
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The content of this Website is provided as a service to you for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need medical advice, you should seek the advice of your healthcare professional.