Asthma and Allergies: Part 3 Mold and Moisture

Review of Signs and Symptoms People with allergies have hyperactive immune systems that think harmless things, such as pet dander, are dangerous. Their bodies react to try to fight off the danger. Allergies -itchy, stuffy nose, red eyes, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, rash Asthma is a disease that causes inflammation and narrows the airways, making it difficult to breathe Asthma- coughing , wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath

What is mold? Mold is tiny spores that break down dead matter Mold needs moisture and a warm temperature to grow

Why is mold a problem indoors? Molds produce allergens or toxic substances that can harm humans Molds can induce asthma attacks 10% of the population is allergic to mold

Where should I look to find mold? Bathrooms Laundry rooms Under kitchen sinks Basements Air ducts

How do I know if I have mold? Mold often looks like black spots and is commonly found in bathrooms due to the high humidity Symptoms of a reaction are hay-fever like symptoms (sneezing, coughing, respiratory symptoms) Mold can have a musty smell

Review Question 1 Which of these is not a common symptom of mold allergies? A) coughing B)sneezing C) vomiting D) runny nose

How do I prevent mold inside? Act fast-if wet areas are dried within 24-48 hours most of the time mold will not grow Keep indoor humidity low-use humidifiers if necessary, use vents in bathrooms Vent appliances such as dryers, stoves, or heaters Avoid having carpet in bathrooms, kitchens, or basements Take wet items outside if possible-direct sunlight can prevent mold growth

Review Question 2 Which of these will help prevent mold growth? Choose all that apply. A) Make sure wet surfaces are dried within 24-48 hours B)Vent dryers into the attic C) Avoid carpets in bathrooms D) Take wet items outside to dry in sunlight

How do I prevent issues outside that could cause mold? Clean out gutters regularly Make sure ground slopes away from house

How do I fix mold in my house? Make sure to clean up mold AND fix the problem, otherwise the mold will come back Scrub mold with detergent and water Do not cover up mold with paint—it will still be there underneath the paint unless you clean it up Fix any leaks you may find Make sure to let areas dry completely after cleaning

Review Question 3 True or False A mixture of ammonia and bleach should be used to clean up mold.

How do I protect myself when cleaning up mold? Wear N95 mask Wear gloves Wear goggles Make children leave the house while cleaning

Review Question 4 Which of these is not necessary to use when cleaning up mold? A)Hazmat suit B) N95 mask C)gloves D)goggles

Why is it so important? Mold can attract cockroaches, rodents, or dust mites Exposure to these pests can lead to more respiratory issues, further complicating the problem

References Community environmental health resource center. (2010). Mold and moisture. Retrieved from http://www.afhh.org/hps/hps_cehrc_mold&moisture_materials.pdf Environmental health and safety online. (2011). A brief guide to mold, moisture, and your home. Retrieved from http://www.ehso.com/indoorairmold.php Minnesota department of health. (2010). Moisture and mold in my home. Retrieved from http://www.energy.wsu.edu/Documents/mold_moisture.pdf

References United States Department of Housing and Development. (2010). About mold and moisture. Retrieved from http://www.hud.gov/offices/lead/healthyhomes/mold.cfm United States EPA. (2010). A brief guide to mold, moisture, and your home. Retrieved from http://www.epa.gov/iedmold1/preventionandcontrol.html

Quiz Answers 1. C 2. A,C,D 3. False 4. A