Spotting Mold Allergies in Children

Although mold is not a heavily regulated material, people can be highly sensitive to mold particles. While children are growing, they are extremely susceptible to harmful substances because their systems are still developing.

Exposure to mold can cause three different types of reactions: allergenic, pathogenic, and toxigenic. Allergenic reactions produce an immune response where the immune system can fight of the perceived threat. A pathogenic reaction is of a bacteria or virus. Lastly, toxigenic reactions produce a poisonous effect and are capable of disease. Mold spores can either be introduced via ingestion, inhalation, or physical contact.

Exposure to mold can lead to long-term health damage such as a weakened immune system, liver or kidney damage, hormone disorders, and more.

It is imperative to know the symptoms of mold allergies and how to treat the source. Some symptoms of mold allergies are:

• Fevers
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Superficial rashes
• Skin irritations
• Congestion
• Athlete’s foot
• Plantar warts above the foot area
• Nail bed infections
• Dizziness
• Abdominal cramps
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

Mold can grow for a plethora a reasons. Sometimes, mold can be growing in the walls or under carpet, causing people to have non-visible mold. People can go months, sometimes years, without even knowing they have mold. Some may think they have regular spring allergies, but in reality, they are allergic to non-visible mold hidden within the home or workplace.

If you smell the presence of mold, but do not visibly see any, consider bringing in a testing company to take air samples. A professional environmental testing company is able to take moisture readings. While there is always a small presence of mold in the air we breathe, these air samples can tell if there are elevated/abnormal levels of mold in your space. By taking multiple samples, they can detect and make an educated guess on where the mold may be hiding.

Always hire a professional to remove any mold and do NOT use bleach. Alliance Environmental Group provides free estimates for mold remediation. Call (877) 858-6220 today.