1. Asthma and Allergies: Part 3
Mold and Moisture

2. 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

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

4. 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

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

6. 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

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

8. How do I prevent mold inside?
Act fast-if wet areas are dried within 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

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

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

11. 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

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

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

14. 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

15. 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

16. References
Community environmental health resource center. (2010). Mold and moisture. Retrieved from
Environmental health and safety online. (2011). A brief guide to mold, moisture, and your home. Retrieved from
Minnesota department of health. (2010). Moisture and mold in my home. Retrieved from

17. References
United States Department of Housing and Development. (2010). About mold and moisture. Retrieved from
United States EPA. (2010). A brief guide to mold, moisture, and your home. Retrieved from

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