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Mold sinus: Is Mold Causing Your Sinus Infection?

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Is Mold Causing Your Sinus Infection?

Sinus Infections

If you suffer from chronic sinus infections you’re not alone. It is estimated that over 37 million people in the United States currently suffer from some sort of sinusitis. In fact, it is one of the leading causes of people making an appointment at one of North Atlanta ENT & Allergy’s three offices.

How Mold Causes Sinus Infections

Some individuals are more prone to being affected by sinusitis caused by mold. This is because they possess a gene in their DNA that makes them more susceptible to the effects of mold, which are usually symptoms of chronic sinusitis.

When a mold fungus finds its way into the sinus cavity, the immunity in the body reacts by releasing a chemical known as oesinophils to fight the fungi. This substance is what causes fungal sinusitis and will cause irritation for as long as the fungi are within the sinus.

In addition, since fungi thrive in damp and dark environments, it can be difficult to get rid of the infection since the sinus cavity is the perfect host environment.

Symptoms of Fungal Sinusitis

Some common symptoms include:

  • Swellings in the nasal cavity
  • Runny nose
  • Poor sense of smell
  • Headache
  • Body ache
  • Tingly rashes
  • Post-nasal drip
  • Coughing

Please note that these symptoms may be a sign of either acute or chronic sinusitis.

Distinguishing between Fungal Sinus and Bacterial or Viral Sinus

While it may not be easy to tell the difference between a fungal sinus infection and bacterial or viral sinus infection, it is not entirely impossible.

There are two known tests carried out by an otolaryngologist to identify the type of infection:

Skin test – on your arm or at its back the doctor will prick your skin and apply mild allergens found within your area. Your skin reacts by developing a hive if you are allergic to the specific allergen.

Blood test – the blood test is usually also known as radioallergosorbent test which works by measuring the level of your immunity. The test captures a quantity of specific antibodies referred to as immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the blood. Once the blood sample is taken, it will be checked for sensitivity to certain molds.

Prevention and Treatment

The best and most effective remedy is to get rid of the mold in your surroundings and always ensure that your home is well ventilated with fresh air in circulation. However, it is not possible to eliminate mold 100%.

In treating symptoms of sinusitis, over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, and salt-water nasal washes are commonly used and have proved to be effective. However, the chronic inflammation of the nasal cavity requires a different treatment protocol.

Nasal Corticosteroids like fluticasone, budesonide (Rhinocort Aqua) and triamcinolone (Nasacort AQ) are effective in eliminating inflammation in the sinus cavity.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend corrective surgery to fix your anatomical structure, thus helping to eliminate current and future fungal infections.

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Is Mold Causing My Sinusitis? – Dr Garrett Bennett

Mold and Mildew

Unlike those troubled from pollen allergies who experience flare-ups of sinus problems in the spring months, if you find yourself suffering from itchy eyes, congestion, sinus pain and pressure during the fall months, then it is likely that you have an allergy to mold and mildew.

A large percentage of chronic sinus infections are related to mold exposure, according to the Mayo Clinic, the largest not-for-profit medical practice and research center in the world.

In this installment of the Spotlight series, Dr. Bennett answers your questions about mold and mildew and how reducing your exposure with tips to help ease your sinus pain.

In general, if you suffer from mold allergies, it is best to avoid outside mold spore, piles of leaves, dense vegetation and plant debris when out of doors. As for indoor tips, invest in a dehumidifier and a HEPA (HIgh-Efficiency Air Particulate) filter machines that should be run to regulate the moisture in the air and purify the air, respectively. Also, be sure to keep only a few indoor plants and keep your windows closed if the mold spore counts are high.

What is mold and where is it found?

Mold is a type of fungus. There are three principle types of molds of which to be aware:

Mops can contain mold and other fungi

Allergenic Molds:

This is the least dangerous type of mold, and the kind that will be referred to throughout the article. It is also the most troublesome type of mold if you have been diagnosed with a mold allergy and includes the most common type of mold, called altemaria, which affects the nose, mouth and upper respiratory tract, causing allergic reactions.

Pathogenic Molds:

You are more susceptible to this type of mold if you are currently sick or have a weakened immune system.

Toxigenic (“Toxic”) Molds:

The most dangerous type of mold; produces mycotoxins, linked to severe health effects such as immunosuppression and cancer.

Mold fungi reproduce and grow rapidly through the release of spores (or cells) into the air. These spores are typically too microscopic to see, even though there may be hundreds or thousands in one’s home. Mold spores breed in damp areas but can survive in even the driest spots because they have the ability to lay dormant until the right conditions exist to begin reproducing again.

Mold needs only moisture and oxygen, so it can be found in any area or in any substance so long as those two ingredients are present. Mold is often found in carpet, wood, leather, fabrics and even food.

Could my sinus infections be caused by a mold allergy?

Did you know that 16% of men and women in the United States have a specific genetic trait in their DNA that makes them more prone to mold allergies than those without it? Consider the fact that you could very well be one of these individuals who carry this trait.

To find out, your doctor can give you a special allergy test. There are two different types of tests: skin and blood tests.

The Skin Test, is based on the body’s immediate reaction to mold. This is based on either a prick of the skin or a patch placed on the skin and your immune system’s local skin response to the mold allergens. If you have a mold allergy, the mold binds with skin antibodies and skin cells. This will cause mast cells to release histamines into the body causing redness and swelling in that area. That’s also why antihistamines prevent the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

The Blood Test involves the testing and analysis of a blood sample. Blood is analyzed at a lab for the presence of a limited selection of antibodies the body may have produced. The amount of antibodies will tell how allergic you are to a certain substance. This and the skin test are usually covered by your health insurance. Doctors who perform the blood test report that sufferers of chronic sinusitis test positive for a mold allergy up to 90% of the time; the skin test, however, shows a positive result for only 30% of the same population.

Chronic or acute sinusitis may be the result of a mold allergen if you have the following symptoms:

  • Inflammation of the nasal passages
  • Body aches
  • Coughing and wheezing
  • Post-nasal drip
  • Itchy rashes

Nasal polyps can also, but not always, be caused by mold. A polyp is a growth in the sinus tissues that are typically the size of a grape. Steroids and allergen avoidance with rinsing can be helpful but surgery is frequently required for removal. Like regular sinus infections, they can be caused by inflammation of the tissues due to mold exposure. Eliminating mold from surfaces and the air are the best way to reduce your risk of developing nasal polyps caused by mold and mildew.

In addition to sinusitis and nasal polyps, mold can also cause muscle and joint pain, headaches, anxiety, shortness of breath and gastro-intestinal problems.

Is there mold in my house?

If you or your doctor suspect that mold may be contributing to your chronic sinusitis, it is possible that the source of the mold is inside your home. Target the following areas when inspecting or cleaning your house for mold:

  • Carpeting
  • Upholstery
  • Curtains
  • Clothing
  • Mattresses
  • Furniture
  • Pillows
  • Pets
  • Christmas trees
  • Leaky sinks
  • Behind appliances connected to plumbing (the refrigerator, washer, dishwater)
  • Leaky roofs
  • Windows that collect condensation
  • Basements and other areas with high humidity

Mildew and Mold are often present in drying laundry

A common misconception related to mold in the house concerns the belief that those who live in a newly built house are not at risk for mold allergens. This is untrue. During the construction of a house, the foundation is often exposed to rain and humidity, hotbeds for mold and mildew. If you suspect your house contains mold and your sinuses are being affected, buy a gravity plate testing kit, the most common option for homeowners. A gravity plate test helps detect hidden mold present in cabinetry, crawl spaces, closets, furniture and ductwork.

A typical test consists of a simple Petri dish that contains a nutrient in the bottom. To use it, remove the top of the Petri dish, and wait. After four to eight hours, if there is mold in your house, you will be able to see tiny “spores” or “colonies” in the plate that have begun to grow on account of the nutrient. The test kit comes with an identifier booklet, allowing you to identify which type of spore corresponds with each type of mold. Remember that if you count 0-4 distinct types of mold, and feel no sinus infection symptoms, this is okay. However, if you do experience symptoms associated with a mold allergy, you should make sure that your indoor mold levels are at a 0-2 level.

You can pick up a mold detection kit either online, or at your local hardware store. Mold detection kits are also available for air sampling and moisture. For those who prefer to leave the mold to the experts, a quick Google search for mold control companies will turn up the professionals located in your area.

How can I prevent the onset of sinus infections caused by mold?

Irrigate

First, irrigate. Irrigating your sinuses flushes them of not only mucus and congestion, but also of the mold itself. When the mold is flushed out, your sinuses and nasal cavities are able to heal now that the inflammatory agent is no longer present.

Mold Removal

Perhaps the most effective treatment is antigen removal, done by killing the antigen in the mold spore. You may need to hire professionals to inspect your house or work space and clear it from any mold, otherwise the trigger that causes your immune system to react to the mold by causing inflammation of the sinuses and other symptoms, will continue.

Treat your Car

Your car is another area that should be carefully inspected for the presence of mold. Indications of mold include a musty smell upon entering and frequent sneezing while inside.

Inspect Your Basement

Mold can be present in any area of your house, but most often, it is located in the basement, bathroom or laundry area. Damp and wet basements are even more susceptible. A professional water damage team can handle fixing the problem, or you can take the do-it-yourself approach by removing any wet items, drying the area with a dehumidifier, and then using a non-toxic mold removal product.

Remove Carpeting and Install Hardwood Flooring

Carpets are another key area to target when removing mold in one’s house. Carpet not only contain mold, but can grow mold as well as dust mites. Merely steam cleaning and vacuuming the carpets in not enough to remove it, because mold trapped in the fibers in the carpet is too deep to be seen. Opt for wood or pergo flooring instead.

Conclusion

Keep in mind that if you discover that the mold types inside your house are similar to that outdoors, this does not mean that your house is not still the sole contributor to your sinus infections. Mold spores found outdoors are less concentrated and are less commonly linked to sinus infections, thus, even if the mold levels indoors and outdoors are the same, it is best to remove the mold as soon as possible.

Another common misconception is that sinus infections are not caused mold, but rather bacteria. If you have tested positive to fungal allergies, this means that mold in your nose can cause white blood cells to react to kill the fungus in the sinus lining. A pit then forms in the sinus lining, trapping mucus and blocking it from draining properly. This can also cause a sinus infection that must be treated with antibiotics. If you are still breathing in mold and mildew, the infection is likely to return. Thus, removal of the mold at the source can be the key to stopping the infection, not treating the bacteria that result.

The first step in treating a mold-based sinus infection is getting tested to determine whether you have a mold allergy, and whether it is present if your home. Once you have established that mold may be a of your chronic sinusitis, follow the tips listed above as they apply to you. Don’t forget to consult with your doctor if you start to develop more serious physical conditions as a result of exposure to mold.

Are Your Sinuses Healthy? Is Mold the Culprit? — Philadelphia Integrative Medicine

What are the benefits of nasal rinses?

In a systematic review of 10 original trials, saline nasal irrigation resulted in a 27.66% improvement in nasal symptoms, a 62.1% reduction in medicine consumption, a 31.19% acceleration of mucociliary clearance time, and a 27.88% improvement in quality of life.

Saline nasal irrigation is a safe and effective way to release sinus pressure and improve symptoms. It can also help decrease the need for antibiotic medications, which is important as there is an increase in antibiotic resistant in bacteria.

How often can/ should you rinse your sinuses?

If you are someone who frequently experiences sinus congestion, using a sinus rinse twice daily may prove very beneficial. Always consult with your health care provider to see what the best plan is for you.

How does mold exposure affect my sinuses?

Check out our previous blog “Could Your Symptoms be Caused by this Surprising Culprit? A Look into Mold Biotoxins”: https://philly-im. com/blog/2018/9/23/could-your-symptoms-caused-by-this-surprising-culprit-a-look-into-mold-biotoxins

A 2015 study found that approximately 90% of chronically ill patients have a history and exposure to a water damaged building, mold, or both.

The study also linked aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, and/or macrocyclic trichothecenes (types of mycotoxins secreted by mold) to chronic fatigue syndrome. The nose and sinuses are the major internal reservoirs that hold mold and toxins.

Check in with yourself and determine whether you may have any of the following mold exposure symptoms taken from a leading functional physician and mold expert, Dr. Jill Carnahan:

  1. Fatigue and weakness

  2. Headache, light sensitivity

  3. Poor memory, difficult word finding

  4. Difficulty concentration

  5. Morning stiffness, joint pain

  6. Unusual skin sensations, tingling and numbness

  7. Shortness of breath, sinus congestion or chronic cough

  8. Appetite swings, body temperature regulation,

  9. Increased urinary frequency or increased thirst

  10. Red eyes, blurred vision, sweats, mood swings, sharp pains

  11. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating

  12. Tearing, disorientation, metallic taste in mouth

  13. Static shocks

  14. Vertigo, feeling lightheaded

How to I treat my mold exposure?

  1. Remove yourself from the contaminated environment, or test your home for mold! You can click here to have someone come check for mold in your home!

  2. Avoid exposure to items from the moldy environment.

  3. Use clay, charcoal, cholestyramine or other binders to bind internal mycotoxins

    • Potential binders include cholestyramine (best for orchratoxin), Welchol, charcoal, bentonite clays (gliotoxin—recommend Yerba liquid Prima Bentonite clay), calcium d-glucarate, chorella (gentle), Zeolites, chitosan, citrus pectin, apple pectin, beta-sitosterol, glucomannan, diatomaceous earth.

  4. While you are using binders, you must maintain normal bowel function and avoid constipation.  You can add magnesium citrate, buffered C powder, or even gentle laxatives.

  5. Treat colonizing molds/fungal or bacterial infections in the body

    • Common locations of colonization include sinuses, gut, bladder, vagina, lungs

    • Test and treat for candida overgrowth – living in an environment with mold leads to immune dysregulation that allows candida to overgrow in the body in some immunocompromised patients

    • Nebulizer or Nasal spray

    • Oral antifungals

  6. Enhance detoxification support

    • Some common supplements used to aid detox are liposomal glutathione, milk thistle, n-acetylcysteine, alpha lipoid acid, glycine, glutamine, and taurine.  Methylation support is also key and involves optimal levels of methylcobalamin (B12), methyl-folate, B6, riboflavin, and minerals

    • Sweating via FIR sauna therapy

  7. Avoid common mycotoxin containing foods:

    • Corn, wheat, barley, rye, peanuts, sorghum, cottonseed, some cheeses, and alcoholic beverages such as wine and beer.  Others include oats, rice, tree nuts pistachios, brazil nuts, chiles, oil seeds, spices, black pepper, dried fruits, figs, coffee, cocoa, beans, bread.

  8. HLA DR – Your Genes

    Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLAs), are found on the surface of nearly every cell in the human body.  They help the immune system tell the difference between body tissue and foreign substances.

    The immune response genes are found on chromosome six.  Patients could have two alleles, copies of genes (for each gene, one allele is inherited from a person’s father, and the other is inherited from a person’s mother), out of approximately 10 possible, as part of their genotype.  Based on Dr. Shoemaker’s data, in normal populations compared to international registries of gene frequencies of HLA DR, we know the frequency of mold illness-susceptible patients approximates 24% of the normally distributed population.  Almost a quarter of the normal population is genetically susceptible to chronic mold illness.  Three quarters isn’t.

Advanced Rx is a great local pharmacy which creates anti-fungal sinus treatments. Speak with one of our providers about how you can heal your sinuses and determine if you have been exposed to mold!

PIM wants to hear from you! Do you have an experience with sinusitis? Mold exposure? Do you find this article helpful? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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If you or your loved one needs help, perhaps you are suffering from the effects of ongoing stress, mood or hormone imbalance, including thyroid imbalance, or you or they are already working with a doctor to address a condition but want a more comprehensive, empowering approach schedule your a 20 minute free consultation or an appointment with Annmarie McManus, MMSc, PA-C, PT, IFMCP or Pat Lotito, MD today! Not quite ready to schedule and have questions, quickly get in touch with us today!

Written by Dani Mortimer, Clinic Manager

Resources:

“Chronic Sinusitis.Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 3 Mar. 2018, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-sinusitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351661.

“Sinus Infection | Causes, Symptoms & Treatment.” ACAAI Public Website, acaai.org/allergies/types/sinus-infection.

Stöppler, Melissa Conrad. “Mold Exposure Symptoms, Tests, Treatment, Removal & Dangers.” MedicineNet, www.medicinenet.com/mold_exposure/article.htm#how_should_people_clean_up_and_eliminate_mold.

“Nasal Saline for Allergic Rhinitis.” Nasal Saline for Allergic Rhinitis, www.cochrane.org/CD012597/ENT_nasal-saline-allergic-rhinitis.

Hermelingmeier, Kristina E, et al. “Nasal Irrigation as an Adjunctive Treatment in Allergic Rhinitis: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy, OceanSide Publications, Inc., 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3904042/.

Bennett, J W, and M Klich. “Mycotoxins.Clinical Microbiology Reviews, American Society for Microbiology, July 2003, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC164220/.

Brewer, Joseph H. “Intranasal Antifungal Therapy in Patients with Chronic Illness Associated with Mold and Mycotoxins: An Observational Analysis .” Global Journal of Medical Research: K Interdisciplinary , Global Journals Inc. (USA), 2015, pdfs.semanticscholar.org/8bb0/fee2de8152ee7a63dd973ff7eca070da9028.pdf?_ga=2.44173479.220994921.1556814951-198575620.1556814951.

“Home.” Sutter Health, www.sutterhealth.org/health/breathing-allergies/sinus-rinse-relief.

“Is Toxic Mold Exposure the Cause of Your Symptoms?” Jill Carnahan, MD, 27 Nov. 2018, www.jillcarnahan.com/2015/02/08/toxic-mold-exposure-cause-symptoms/.

“An Overview of Nasal Rinses and Sprays.” My Sinusitis, 3 Jan. 2019, www.mysinusitis.com/blog/an-overview-of-nasal-rinses-and-sprays/.

Sinus Congestion From Mold Exposure …..Causes, Treatment, Eliminating Mold

Sinus congestion, also referred to as sinusitis or a sinus infection, is one of many potential health effects of mold exposure. It causes the sinuses, or nasal passages, to become swollen and inflamed. This interferes with drainage, so you feel stuffed up. Other symptoms include headache, facial tenderness or pain, trouble breathing through your nose, coughing, earache, and fever.

Causes of Sinusitis

Sinusitis can be caused by many things. According to the Mayo Clinic, the most frequent cause is the common cold. Other causes include other types of viruses, bacterial infections, environmental allergies (like hay fever), and fungal infections. Exposure to mold can also cause sinusitis. Some people are allergic to mold, which triggers sinus problems for them. Mold is also a fungus, and tiny mold spores drift around in the air, where they are easily inhaled. These mold spores irritate and inflame the linings of the sinus cavities, throat, airways, and lungs.

Treating Sinus Congestion Caused by Mold

While sinusitis caused by the common cold virus generally gets better without medical treatment, just like a cold does, sometimes sinusitis does require medical care. Bacterial infections may require antibiotics. Fungal infections may require prescription medication, as well. If allergies to mold or other substances are causing sinusitis, immunotherapy (allergy shots) may help.

Over-the-counter remedies can relieve some symptoms of sinus infections. For instance, decongestants help relieve sinus congestion. Saline nasal spray can help clear clogged nasal passages and soothe inflamed mucous membranes. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Aleve) can relieve sinus pain.

Sinusitis caused by mold will almost certainly not resolve completely, though, even with medical treatment, as long as you continue to be exposed to mold. Symptoms may abate temporarily but will probably return and may even worsen. You’ll need to have your home thoroughly cleansed of all traces of mold if mold is causing or contributing to your sinus problems.

Other Health Effects of Mold

Sinus problems are by no means the only health problem that can be cause by mold.  Other possible health effects of mold include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Sore throat
  • Bronchitis
  • Pneumonia
  • Asthma attacks
  • The development of scar tissue in the lungs
  • Bleeding in the lungs
  • Headache and/or migraines
  • Skin reactions like rashes or hives
  • Digestive problems
  • Joint inflammation and/or pain (symptoms similar to rheumatoid arthritis)
  • Depression
  • Fatigue

As with sinus problems related to mold exposure, these other health problems probably will not respond fully to medical treatment as long as you continue to suffer exposure to mold.

Is Mold Causing Your Sinus Problems or Other Symptoms?

Finding out if you have a mold problem is not as easy as you might think. Mold can grow in all sorts of hard-to-reach places, like inside walls, above ceiling tiles, underneath carpets and floorboards, and inside ventilation systems. You might be aware of a mold problem in your bathroom or basement, but mold spreads easily throughout the home and if you have mold in one area, you might have mold in other places as well where it’s just not visible.

We recommend calling in a professional mold tester, so you can find out the extent of your mold problem and locate all mold in the home. Most professional mold testers are engineers, and they are trained to test both the air and various surfaces in your home for mold, making sure they locate all areas affected by mold growth. If they find mold in your home, they can give you valuable advice about the mold removal process. To find certified mold testers in your area, just follow this link.

Return From Sinus Congestion To Our Main Symptoms Page

Mold allergy – Symptoms and causes

Overview

If you have a mold allergy, your immune system overreacts when you breathe in mold spores. A mold allergy can cause coughing, itchy eyes and other symptoms that make you miserable. In some people, a mold allergy is linked to asthma and exposure causes restricted breathing and other airway symptoms.

If you have a mold allergy, the best defense is to reduce your exposure to the types of mold that cause your reaction. Medications can help keep mold allergy reactions under control.

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Symptoms

A mold allergy causes the same signs and symptoms that occur in other types of upper respiratory allergies. Signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis caused by a mold allergy can include:

  • Sneezing
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Cough and postnasal drip
  • Itchy eyes, nose and throat
  • Watery eyes
  • Dry, scaly skin

Mold allergy symptoms vary from person to person and range from mild to severe. You might have year-round symptoms or symptoms that flare up only during certain times of the year. You might notice symptoms when the weather is damp or when you’re in indoor or outdoor spaces that have high concentrations of mold.

Mold allergy and asthma

If you have a mold allergy and asthma, your asthma symptoms can be triggered by exposure to mold spores. In some people, exposure to certain molds can cause a severe asthma attack. Signs and symptoms of asthma include:

  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest tightness

When to see a doctor

If you have a stuffy nose, sneezing, watery eyes, shortness of breath, wheezing or other bothersome symptoms that persist, see your doctor.

Causes

Like any allergy, mold allergy symptoms are triggered by an overly sensitive immune system response. When you inhale tiny, airborne mold spores, your body recognizes them as foreign invaders and develops allergy-causing antibodies to fight them.

Exposure to mold spores can cause a reaction right away, or the reaction can be delayed.

Various molds are common indoors and outdoors. Only certain kinds of mold cause allergies. Being allergic to one type of mold doesn’t mean you’ll be allergic to another. Some of the most common molds that cause allergies include alternaria, aspergillus, cladosporium and penicillium.

Risk factors

A number of factors can make you more likely to develop a mold allergy or worsen your mold allergy symptoms, including:

  • Having a family history of allergies. If allergies and asthma run in your family, you’re more likely to develop a mold allergy.
  • Working in an occupation that exposes you to mold. Occupations where mold exposure can be high include farming, dairy work, logging, baking, millwork, carpentry, greenhouse work, winemaking and furniture repair.
  • Living in a house with high humidity. Having indoor humidity higher than 50% can increase mold in your home.

    Mold can grow virtually anywhere if the conditions are right — in basements, behind walls in framing, on soap-coated grout and other damp surfaces, in carpet pads, and in the carpet itself. Exposure to high levels of household mold can trigger mold allergy symptoms.

  • Working or living in a building that’s been exposed to excess moisture. Examples include leaky pipes, water seepage during rainstorms and flood damage. At some point, nearly every building has some kind of excessive moisture, which can encourage mold growth.
  • Living in a house with poor ventilation. Tight window and door seals can trap moisture indoors and prevent proper ventilation, creating ideal conditions for mold growth. Damp areas — such as bathrooms, kitchens and basements — are most vulnerable.

Complications

Most allergic responses to mold involve hay fever-type symptoms that can make you miserable but aren’t serious. However, certain allergic conditions caused by mold are more severe. These include:

  • Mold-induced asthma. In people allergic to mold, breathing in spores can trigger an asthma flare-up. If you have a mold allergy and asthma, be sure that you have an emergency plan in case of a severe asthma attack.
  • Allergic fungal sinusitis. This results from an inflammatory reaction to fungus in the sinuses.
  • Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. This reaction to fungus in the lungs can occur in people with asthma or cystic fibrosis.
  • Hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This rare condition occurs when exposure to airborne particles such as mold spores causes lung inflammation. It can be triggered by exposure to allergy-causing dust at work.

Other problems caused by mold

Besides allergens, mold can pose other health risks to susceptible people. For example, mold can cause infections of the skin or mucous membranes. Generally, however, mold doesn’t cause systemic infections except for people with impaired immune systems, such as those who have HIV/AIDS or who are taking immunosuppressant medication.

Prevention

To reduce mold growth in your home, consider these tips:

  • Eliminate sources of dampness in basements, such as pipe leaks or groundwater seepage.
  • Use a dehumidifier in any area of your home that smells musty or damp. Keep your humidity levels below 50%. Remember to clean the collection bucket and condensation coils regularly.
  • Use an air conditioner and consider installing central air conditioning with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter attachment. The HEPA filter can trap mold spores from outdoor air before they’re circulated inside your home.
  • Change filters on your furnace and air conditioners regularly. Have forced air heating ducts inspected and, if necessary, cleaned.
  • Be sure all bathrooms are properly ventilated, and run the ventilation fan during a shower or bath and immediately after to dry the air. If you don’t have a ventilation fan, open a window or door while you’re showering or bathing.
  • Don’t carpet bathrooms and basements.
  • Promote groundwater drainage away from your house by removing leaves and vegetation from around the foundation and cleaning out rain gutters frequently. Make sure the ground slopes away from the foundation.
  • Keep organic plant containers clean and dry, such as those made of straw, wicker or hemp.
  • Toss or recycle old books and newspapers. If left in damp places, such as basements, they can quickly become moldy.

An Allergy to Fungus Could be Causing Your Chronic Sinusitis

As if typical cold symptoms aren’t bothersome enough, some people feel facial pressure, general pain and additional mucus due to sinusitis. Unfortunately, while many patients do have a sinus infection, the cause is often misjudged and therefore the treatment prescribed is not effective. Research has found that allergy is to blame in a large percentage of chronic sinusitis cases. Sinusitis seems to be another condition that could be effectively treated with allergy treatment but is often missed in diagnosis.

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis – often referred to as a sinus infection – is an inflammation of the tissue lining the sinuses. Sinusitis is most often suspected to be a result of the common cold, leading to symptoms such as:

  • Facial pressure
  • Headaches
  • Fever
  • Postnasal drip
  • Green or gray nasal discharge
  • Congestion
  • Cough
  • Dental pain

There are a few “do it yourself” remedies that can help these symptoms, such as taking an over the counter pain medication or decongestant and using a saline solution or nasal steroids. If your symptoms persist for more than 7-10 days, that’s typically a good sign to head to your doctor’s office to decide on a treatment plan, oftentimes prescribing an antibiotic.

Unfortunately, those antibiotics don’t do the trick for a subset of patients, leaving them feeling as if there’s no cure for their pain. For those with chronic sinus infections, and sinus infections that don’t improve with the use of antibiotics, it may be time to seek out an allergist.

Treatment of chronic sinusitis due to allergy

Thirty seven million people in the U.S. experience chronic sinusitis – meaning the sinuses stay inflamed for at least 12 weeks, even after attempting treatment. Sinusitis is most often attributed to bacteria and therefore treated with antibiotics, but researchers at the Mayo Clinic discovered that most cases are actually due to a fungal allergy. In a study of 210 patients experiencing sinusitis, fungus was found in 96% of mucus. This led researchers to believe about 80% of chronic sinusitis cases are truly due to allergy, not bacteria, and the antibiotic treatment commonly used is indeed ineffective.

The research states, “Antibiotics and over-the-counter decongestants are widely used to treat chronic sinusitis. In most cases, antibiotics are not effective for chronic sinusitis because they target bacteria, not fungi. The over-the-counter drugs may offer some relief of symptoms, but they have no effect on the inflammation.” Instead, treatment of the allergy itself is most beneficial.

Knowing that most chronic sinusitis cases are caused by allergy has led allergists and doctors alike to pay close attention to the two conditions and their relation to each other. Allergy testing is to be completed in order to uncover the offending allergen, specifically the offending mold or fungus. Through Allergychoices, individually tailored allergy drops are prescribed to help build tolerance to the substance causing chronic symptoms. This safe and effective treatment has proven to help those with mild to severe allergic conditions, chronic sinusitis included.

One of the most common fungi, and most popular allergens, is mold. Dr. George Kroker, partner at Allergy Associates of La Crosse and an author of the La Crosse Method™ Protocol, explains that mold is found everywhere, indoors, outdoors, and year round. Because of this, patients have a long season of exposure, which can definitely cause chronic symptoms in the sinuses. You can find more about mold, along with tips for combating it and allergy drop treatment to build tolerance in our blog Mold Allergies: When pollen is gone and symptoms drag on with Dr. Kroker.

 

By Taylor Pasell, Allergychoices

Hurricane Harvey’s Mold May Be Affecting Your Sinuses

Chronic sinus got you down? The cause may be Hurricane Harvey and its lasting effects on Houstonian’s homes and workplaces. If you suffer from sinusitis, consider the following tips for eradicating mold to can might alleviate your chronic sinusitis and help keep new sinus infections at bay.

Twenty years ago, researchers assumed that all sinus infections were the result of either bacterial or viral infection. Today, scientists now recognize that when fungi such as mold enters the sinus cavity, a suppressed immune system is likely to have a strong adverse reaction, the result of which is fungal sinusitis. Fungi love damp, dark conditions, making the sinus cavity both a perfect environment for fungi to grow and a difficult place to eliminate it once it’s there. Research now shows that moldy homes and work environments are responsible for chronic sinus issues in as many as nine out of ten cases.

Unfortunately, there is no easy way to tell the difference between sinus issues caused by fungi and those caused by viruses or bacteria. The symptoms of all three types of sinus infections—headaches, sinus pressure, congestion, and discolored discharge—are the same. Complicating matters, a sinus infection may be caused by a combination of two or even all three causes. However, if antibiotics haven’t eradicated your sinus problems (antibiotics can’t kill fungi) and decongestants have little effect on your symptoms, it’s more likely that fungal sinusitis is the culprit behind your sinusitis.

Your best course of action if you suspect that mold may be causing your sinus problems would be to get tested for fungal sinusitis by your doctor. If it turns out that your chronic sinus problems are caused by mold, there are several treatments and preventative actions available to you. Some fungal sinus problems require surgery to remove the fungus – this is usually done with a simple, in-office procedure called Balloon Sinuplasty. While balloon Sinuplasty is a very effective treatment, certain types of fungus are more resilient and may recur.

For Houstonian’s whose homes and workplaces were damaged by Harvey, a diligent investigation into whether those spaces are mold-free will up your chances of avoiding fungal sinusitis. To protect yourself from fungal sinusitis, keep fresh air circulating throughout the home to avoid temperature extremes which creates moisture and the perfect environment for mold. Only use your humidifier in the dry months, and keep houseplants to a minimum – a few are good for air quality, but too many will increase humidity. Don’t leave any leaks uncared for, and attack any mold you find with bleach to make sure it is killed. Call a mold removal service if you find that mold has taken root deeper in your home.

By taking these few simple precautions you can keep down the amount of mold you are exposed to and may well find that your sinus problem clear up once the mold is eliminated. A mold-free and sinus-free home and workplace are two less problems to worry about as Houston rebuilds itself.

90,000 where it comes from, methods for removing mold and mildew.

It appeared on Earth 200 million years ago, and it is called “the devil’s bread” and “God’s spit” . She is omnipresent and indestructible, and accompanies a person from birth to death. Perhaps it is she who is the oldest “living” witness of the development of life on Earth, but is capable of turning into “plague of the XXI century” . Evidence of the interaction of mankind with mold is very old: for example, historians suggest that when the prudent Noah tarred the Ark from the outside and from the inside, then, by doing so, he isolated it from mold and, perhaps, thanks to this, the human race remained alive.

Another historical case related to the ancient history of mold is associated with the sensational, at one time, find of Tutankhamun’s mummy: twenty-two people died in a short time. The first seventeen were the ones who followed Carter and Carnarvon into the burial chamber on February 13, 1923, the other five had a chance to examine the mummy itself. Their death gave rise to the myth of the “ curse of the pharaohs “, who took revenge for the violation of their peace. But later studies showed that the cause of death of those who opened the tombs of the Egyptian pharaohs was yellow mold , which releases aflatoxin , which causes severe pneumonia and liver cancer.Subsequently, this life-threatening substance was used in the manufacture of modern biological weapons. Even now, in Asian countries, 20 thousand people die every year from the action of this carcinogen. Yellow mold, producing aflatoxin , affects food (liver, fish, milk, rice, peanuts are most susceptible to infection).

What is mold? Mold is a colony of the unicellular fungus , which develops from spores that are constantly present in the air in a “conserved” state in large quantities.It is most active in the fall, as decaying vegetation creates an excellent breeding ground for it.

Mold is omnivorous, ubiquitous, but rarely striking. In a clean room in each cubic meter of air there are approximately to 500 spores of fungi . When a person breathes, he also breathes in the spores of fungi along with the air. Larger spores can cause allergies, while smaller spores can cause lung disease. The fungus living inside a person, in conditions of immune deficiency, is activated, begins to multiply and can cause fatal forms of diseases .Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, affects over 36 million people. In most cases, the root cause of this disease is allergenic mold. Among the huge number of mushrooms, 90,023 allergenic properties were found in about 300 species.

Mold is friendly with radiation and space. In 1935, the great Russian scientist Alexander Chizhevsky studied the reaction of microorganisms to solar flares. He found that as solar activity increases, the aggressiveness of mold increases.The primary immune system is maintained by the balance of molds Aspergillus niger (black mold) and Mukor Rasemosus . We are healthy as long as the body maintains the balance of these microfungi. As soon as it collapses, we get sick. Diseases such as m uberculosis, osteoporosis, bone diseases, dementia are the result of pathological growth Aspergillus . And all diseases associated with blood stagnation and leading to cancer are the activity of the growing fungus Mukor .The mold balance is upset when we experience negative emotions – angry, hate, afraid.

Black mold on the wall surface is the so-called black fungus, or Aspergillus niger . He, as well as Aspergillus fumigatus, cause serious pulmonary diseases, in particular aspergillosis. In the cities, spores of those molds that are most destructive to people turned out to be predominant. Mold spreads through the air in the form of microscopic spores.When it hits a damp surface, it grows in the finest filaments (mycelium). In Sweden, there is a standard: in a cubic meter of room air should not contain more than 174 colony-forming units of active microcells of mold . Studies of the air in the homes of our compatriots, carried out by Russian microbiologists, gave a result that is 3-6 times higher than the indicated figure.

The main reason for the appearance and growth of mold is high humidity in the room, excess moisture.The fungus actively develops when the air humidity is over 95% . Mold can grow on wood, concrete, plaster, rubber, plastic, linoleum and its fabric backing, painted surfaces, carpets, and even in books. Microspores can rise through ventilation from damp basements. In bathrooms (not to mention baths and saunas), condensation is common. This is the result of the temperature difference between the surface and the air. Rain has a beneficial effect on mold growth.Moisture penetrates through pores, holes, cracks or leaking seams in buildings. Groundwater and sediment water tend to soak into the basement of the building or into the walls. The appearance of mold on unprotected materials is inevitable in this case.

At food enterprises , technological equipment and implements can become direct sources of contamination with mold spores in case of unsatisfactory sanitary condition of their surfaces, poor washing, and poor-quality disinfection.Mold does not grow on metal surfaces, but in spore form it can migrate in arbitrary directions. The most common places for mold to appear are walls where moisture accumulates, ceilings, joints on windows, floors, etc. Water vapor condenses on surfaces (walls, ceiling, floor, slopes, etc.), and in the absence of effective ventilation, a favorable environment is created for its formation, since ventilation is necessary to remove excess moisture from the premises.

Another reason for the appearance of mold is air exchange disturbance .If the ventilation system in the room is installed correctly and efficiently, then there are no conditions for mold growth. In places where air movement is absent or limited, mold is most often seen.

In addition to ineffective ventilation, the contamination of the air with fungal spores is affected by the sanitary state of the supply and exhaust ventilation and air conditioning systems . It has been proven that in the absence of regular cleaning and disinfection of ventilation and air conditioning systems, the development of mold and the release of fungal spores into the premises is inevitable.For the disinfection of ventilation and air conditioning systems , a two-stage treatment is recommended :

  • Cleaning of dust, soot, grease, greases with a detergent KHIMITEK CHUDODEY-POLYPROM
  • disinfection with a neutral disinfectant CHIMITEK UNIVERSAL-DES, which is active against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, yeast-like fungi and yeast, does not have corrosive activity, i.e. does not damage objects and surfaces of any material.

The presence of mold in food production is especially critical. And this is primarily due to the fact that many molds release substances dangerous to humans, the so-called mycotoxins , which can contaminate food at any stage of their production. These toxins are very persistent and do not degrade even at high temperatures , mold causes food spoilage, and mold-affected foods pose a great threat to human health.It is believed that the main source of contamination of food with mold spores is the air in industrial premises.

For disinfection of the air environment in industrial premises, it is recommended to use air disinfection inside a closed room by spraying ( volumetric disinfection ) with CHEMITEK POLYDEZ-SUPER.

Dealing with mold is not an easy task and should be done regularly to minimize or eliminate potential effects and 90,023 biofilm . Biofilm can grow on any surface that has been exposed to bacteria and water. Biofilms can be formed by one type of bacteria, but they usually consist of many different types, as well as fungi, microalgae, protozoa and small debris. Together they form a thick, sticky substance that can remain on a wide variety of surfaces, including metals, plastics, soil, and biological tissues. Only regular, thorough sanitization of surfaces can prevent the formation of colonies of mold and biofilms.The use of an alkaline chlorine-containing agent KHIMITEK CHUDODEY-COMBI in cleaning technologies is an effective preventive measure.

At home, first of all, it is necessary to eliminate, if possible, the causes of the appearance of mold, then to clean the room from traces of the vital activity of fungal organisms. We put on gloves, a respirator, arm ourselves with a brush, rags, a fungicidal agent, for example, a broad-spectrum powder disinfectant CHEMITEK POLYDEZ®-DRY.The surface affected by mold is abundantly moistened with water in order to prevent the spread of mold spores in the room as much as possible and not to breathe in them during cleaning. We remove black spots and streaks mechanically. After that, we begin to clean off the black dirt with water and a solution of CHEMITEK POLYDEZ®-DRY. Do not forget about pipes and taps, we clean them with a sponge. Floor skirting boards, panel seams, shelves must also be scrupulously cleaned. All materials at hand – sponges, rags – must be disposed of after cleaning .If you feel sorry for the brush, pour boiling water over it several times and soak it in CHEMITEK POLYDEZ®-DRY solution.

How to get rid of mold: 10 effective ways

The fungus in the apartment spoils the interior and is dangerous to health.We tell you how to eliminate mold, get rid of odor and damage

Photo: Gettyimages.com

Together with an expert, we figure out why mold appears, how it is dangerous and how to get rid of it.

The material was checked and read by Dmitry Vikhrov , epidemiologist, disinfector, SES Clean City LLC, blog author @virxoff

Why mold is dangerous

Mold is a visually distinguishable plaque that forms as a result of the vital activity of microscopic fungi.They adapt to many conditions – for example, they are often found on stale foods.

But if spoiled food can be thrown away, then the fungus on the walls, floor and ceiling is more difficult. The fact is that mold is a mycelium that grows much deeper than visible surfaces, and simple cleaning will not be enough.

Plaque is formed under the following conditions:

  1. High humidity. Most often, mold appears in the bathroom and on the ceiling if leaks occur.It can grow on poorly sealed windows where seasonal condensation builds up. On average, a fungus needs 70–80% of air humidity for optimal development conditions.
  2. Temperature – 3 to 21 ° C. Mold is very resistant to these changes. Therefore, it is impossible to get rid of it by warming up the room or, conversely, by greatly lowering the temperature.
  3. Poor ventilation. The spores of the fungus spread through the air. Therefore, the less its circulation, the more chances that they will settle and grow on walls and furniture.

The fungus does not immediately cover the surfaces of the apartment; at the initial stages, it can be determined by the specific smell of dampness. And then it’s worth taking the time to locate the source. The sooner you get rid of mold, the less likely it is to multiply, taking over new areas of the apartment. In addition to aesthetic inconveniences and damage to things, it can be hazardous to health: fungal spores are so small that they easily enter the body through the lungs when inhaled, and then produce toxins.As a result, the person may develop asthma or pneumonia.

Dmitry Vikhrov, epidemiologist:

– Mushroom particles, their spores and waste products are agents foreign to the body: antigens, allergens, toxins. All of them can cause significant harm to humans. When in rooms where mold lesions of surfaces (both obvious and imperceptible) have arisen, a person can inhale spores, dust with waste products of fungi, their dead microparticles.At first, it causes coughing, conjunctivitis, sneezing and difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, frequent respiratory infections and long-lasting bronchitis, asthma-like attacks. In severe conditions, the patient can only be helped in a medical organization, and urgently.

The reason for increased humidity in the house can be insufficient ventilation and waterproofing, leaks, poor sealing of joints, violations of building technologies, including a reduction in the prescribed drying time for materials; as a result, some of the moisture remains inside the walls of the built house.Favorable conditions for the development of mold are considered to be a material moisture of more than 5%, an air humidity of over 60% and an air temperature of 20–25 ° C. The optimum air temperature in the living room is from 20 to 22 ° C, the allowable is from 18 to 24 ° C, the humidity is from 45 to 30%, the allowable is up to 60%, the air speed is 0.15 m / s, the allowable is 0.2 m / s “.

Types of mold in apartment

There are many types of fungi, but there are those that are most often found in residential premises.

Black mold

Photo: Saxon Vinkovic / wikipedia.org

Aspergillius Niger is the most dangerous. It can grow not only on wallpaper, but also on painted concrete walls and tiles in the bathroom. This is most often due to organic contaminants that serve as a breeding ground. There is food black mold – a noticeable plaque on spoiled food, it is strictly necessary to throw it away.

Green mold

Photo: Ivtorov / wikipedia.org

No less common type that is found in apartments and houses.Usually these are Penicillium fungi. They look like moss, have a deep green color and have an uneven surface. Green mold affects food and porous surfaces, including walls, furniture, and ceilings.

Mold pink

Photo: John Kaminski / flickr.com

One of the few types of fungus that is easy to get rid of. The mycelium does not go deep into the structure of the material, developing on its surface. Therefore, in the fight against pink mold, sometimes it is enough to have a high-quality cleaning.

White mold

Photo: Thiedbold / wikipedia.org

Mucor appears as a light coating in flower pots. This is due to abundant watering in a warm room. If mold has developed, the best solution is to replant the plant, removing all affected parts of the soil.

Blue mold

Photo: Silk666 / wikipedia.org

The gray-blue colored fungus Ceratocystis grows on wooden surfaces. It affects parquet floors and furniture, spoils their appearance and gradually destroys them. Do not confuse this species with blue mold. The latter is not dangerous to the body and is used in the production of cheese.

Where germs live: 10 dirtiest places in your home

How to get rid of mold

There are many folk and professional remedies that are effective for removing various types of mold.But all of them will have a temporary effect if the root cause is not eliminated – the conditions suitable for the development of the fungus.

1. Hydrogen peroxide

Antifungal and antibacterial solution, which is found in many first aid kits, is a good remedy for mold. Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle. It can be used on kitchen appliances, countertops, bathtubs, hard floors and wall surfaces. Check the inconspicuous area first to prevent discoloration or damage.Saturate the moldy surface with liquid and let sit for ten minutes. Then rub the area with enough force to remove the stains and wipe dry.

2. Essential oils

Many essential oils are used for more than just aromatherapy. Essences have antiseptic and deodorizing properties, repel insects and help get rid of mold. Tea tree, rosemary and lavender oils are natural fungicides that quickly cleanse fungal spores and prevent them from reoccurring.

Mix one teaspoon of tea tree oil with 200 ml of pure water, shake well in a sealed container. Spray the product on the moldy area, let it dry for an hour. Then wipe the surface with a dry towel or microfiber cloth. Some essential oils irritate the skin, so gloves are recommended.

3. White vinegar

A slightly acidic food product cleans and disinfects. Vinegar is safe for most surfaces, and the specific smell disappears quickly.It can kill 82% of molds, including hard black mold [1]. It is better to use undiluted acid, this will increase its effectiveness. Pour white vinegar into a spray bottle, spray onto a moldy surface and let sit for an hour. Wipe the area with clean water and let dry. The vinegar will evaporate within a couple of hours and the smell will disappear.

Choosing environmentally friendly cleaning and laundry products

4. Lemons

Lemon can be an antiseptic, bleach, stain remover and cleaner.This fruit will help remove black mold. The high concentration of acid in lemons destroys mycelium, helps to remove plaque easily and disinfects the surface.

Squeeze the juice of three to five lemons into a cup and apply to the moldy area. Let it sit for five minutes and then wipe the surface with a damp towel. The mixture can be reapplied for best cleansing without rinsing.

From banana to ketchup: 9 products to help you harvest

5. Baking soda

Baking soda has many benefits in domestic use and is an excellent cleaning and disinfecting agent.It is safe for children and pets, so it is often included in professional cleaning products. Besides removing mold, baking soda is excellent at absorbing odors and moisture.

Mix half a tablespoon of baking soda with 0.5 liters of water and shake in a spray bottle. Spray the product on the affected areas, remove plaque with a brush and rinse with water. After that, reapply the baking soda solution and leave to dry. This method kills any remaining mold and prevents new ones from forming.

Photo: Gettyimages.com

6.Bleach

Suitable for smooth surfaces – glass and tiles. Bleach type “Whiteness” should be mixed with water in a ratio of 1 to 10. Apply on surfaces with a brush, leave for an hour, then rinse with clean water. Do not use it for walls with wallpaper or paint, furniture and floors – it is possible to remove the top layer and discoloration of surfaces.

7. Ammonia

The action of the product is similar to that of bleach. Ammonia is suitable for smooth, non-porous surfaces.Mix it in a 1: 1 ratio with water and spray on the infected area. Be careful, the pungent smell of ammonia can make you dizzy. Do not combine alcohol with bleach – the chemical reaction produces toxic gases.

8. Borax

Sodium boric acid is a natural agent used for disinfection. It is an effective fungicide and insecticide that is toxic to the fungus. Vacuum the surfaces before using a 1:10 borax solution mixed with water.Apply with a stiff brush and remove plaque. It is not necessary to wash off the borax: the dried solution has preventive properties, preventing new myceliums from germinating in the treated areas.

9. Iodine solution and camphor balls

This method is only suitable for newly emerging mold that has not yet had time to fix on walls and furniture. In the infected room, place containers with iodine solution and lay out camphor balls. They need to be left for a few hours; the option is suitable for non-residential premises or, for example, old apartments before renovation.

10. Antiseptic primer

A proven method with an effective product from a hardware store. Try to remove mold as much as possible before applying the primer to the contaminated surface. In the case of deep germination of mycelium, not only wallpaper and paint are removed from the walls, but also layers of plaster up to concrete and brick. The solution is sold both ready-made and for dilution with water.

Expert commentary

Dmitry Vikhrov , epidemiologist, disinfectant doctor, SES Clean City LLC, author of @virxoff blog:

– Fungal allergy is difficult to treat.It can be expressed in hypersensitivity of the lungs, manifested by rhinosinusitis and bronchial asthma. In addition, when molds enter the gastrointestinal tract, eating disorders can develop. Most often, people with reduced immunity and chronic diseases who live or work in damp or mushroom-infested premises are susceptible to this.

The effects of any surface treatment against mold will be temporary. It is necessary to eliminate the causes of the appearance of fungi and not to create favorable conditions for their development.If the air humidity exceeds 60%, then the apartment must be dried using electrical appliances, if it is below 35%, then various types of humidifiers must be used. Molds are resistant microorganisms. In terms of the degree of viability, the weakest are bacteria, then viruses come and spore-forming cultures close this row. Therefore, for example, the dose of ultraviolet radiation (UV) required to kill molds is tens and hundreds of times higher than that for bacteria or viruses. It is advisable to use UV recirculators, since in the process of repeated recirculation, the mushrooms gradually receive a sufficient dose and die off.

According to some experts, the most effective method of fighting mold is the use of antimicrobial air filters, which provide a high degree of cleaning from microorganisms and dust. This is important for hospitals, where increased demands are made on air quality. In the buildings of pharmacies and medical institutions – hospitals (except for infectious diseases), polyclinics, etc. – there must be supply and exhaust ventilation with mechanical induction. In any room, it is necessary to observe the ventilation mode: it is recommended to open the vents and transoms often, but for a short time.

All work on the destruction of mold must be carried out with gloves and using respiratory protection – respirators. In order to destroy mold fungi that have already appeared from surfaces, a number of disinfectants with fungicidal (antifungal) properties are recommended. All of them are subject to state registration and have a set of documents, including approved instructions for use, certificates and a safety declaration.

Together with the treatment of the premises from mold, preventive insecticidal measures are carried out to prevent the spread of spores on the paws of pests.

When carrying out professional treatment, you need to leave the house, after it – ventilate. You can stay indoors after the treated surfaces have completely dried.

To avoid the development of fungus in the house and its effect on health, you must:

  • less often to be in damp and poorly ventilated rooms;
  • regulate humidity and air temperature;
  • Timely get rid of objects affected by mold so that it does not spread to other areas;
  • regularly carry out wet cleaning;
  • prevent plumbing leaks, fix leaks in time;
  • keep the bathroom door open, straighten the curtain until it dries completely;
  • Do not close indoor ventilation ducts in residential premises;
  • monitor houseplants: do not flood them and transplant them in time;
  • to throw away spoiled food;
  • Do not allow the combination of kitchen and sanitary ventilation ducts with living rooms.

It is better to use natural breathable materials with good air permeability for decoration of living quarters. When carrying out construction and repair work, you must use protective clothing, masks and respirators, goggles, gloves. If mold enters the body, if you notice any side reactions, be sure to consult a doctor. Be healthy!

WHO has made recommendations to minimize the spread of “black mold”

https: // ria.ru / 20210701 / plesen-1739338931.html

WHO gave recommendations to minimize the spread of “black mold”

WHO made recommendations to minimize the spread of “black mold” – RIA Novosti, 01.07.2021

WHO gave recommendations to minimize the spread of “black mold” mold “

WHO recommends minimizing the use of hormones and antibiotics in the treatment of COVID-19 in order not to catch the fungus, RIA Novosti said … RIA Novosti, 01.07.2021

2021-07-01T05: 07

2021-07- 01T05: 07

2021-07-01T09: 42

World

WHO

Worldwide

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MOSCOW, July 1 – RIA Novosti. The WHO recommends minimizing the use of hormones and antibiotics in the treatment of COVID-19 so as not to catch the fungus, Melita Vujnovich, a spokesman for the organization in Russia, told RIA Novosti. She explained that some of the fungal infections found in patients with coronavirus in India may be associated with yeast, and others with mold.In turn, mold can cause mucormycosis (“black fungus”) and aspergillosis (caused by another type of fungus). “These yeasts and molds are commonly found in the environment, but affect people with weakened immune systems, such as those with diabetes or other chronic diseases, cancer patients or those who have been taking certain medications for a long time, and of course, COVID-19 also weakens the immune system, “- said in a comment made available to the agency. for mild and moderate cases. “She explained that corticosteroids in severe cases do save lives, but their massive use can cause fungal infections. She also recommended that biomedical equipment, in particular ventilators, be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. If a patient is diagnosed with fungal infections, he should be treated with antifungal drugs, the spokesperson added. WHO. Mucormycosis, or “black mold”, is a complication caused by a fungal infection. The disease can develop in those who are in contact with fungal spores in the environment, or after the fungus enters the skin through a cut, scratch, or burn.The disease poses the greatest danger to patients with diabetes, as well as those whose immunity is reduced after fighting the disease, in particular with COVID-19.

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05:07 01.07.2021 (updated: 09:42 01.07.2021)

WHO gave recommendations to minimize the spread of “black mold”

MOSCOW, July 1 – RIA Novosti. WHO recommends minimizing the use of hormonal drugs and antibiotics in the treatment of COVID-19 in order not to catch the fungus, Melita Vujnovich, a representative of the organization in Russia, told RIA Novosti.

She explained that some of the fungal infections found in coronavirus patients in India may be associated with yeast and others with mold.In turn, mold can cause mucormycosis (“black fungus”) and aspergillosis (caused by another type of fungus).

“This yeast and mold is commonly found in the environment, but affects people with weakened immune systems, such as people with diabetes or other chronic diseases, cancer patients or those who have taken certain medications for a long time, and of course COVID-19 too. weakens immunity, “- said in a comment, received at the disposal of the agency.

Wujnovic noted that WHO is calling for “to minimize the disproportionate use of corticosteroids and antibiotics for mild to moderate cases.”She explained that corticosteroids in severe cases really save lives, but their massive use can cause fungal infections. June 11, 14:58 fans.

If a patient is diagnosed with fungal infections, he should be treated with antifungal drugs, added a WHO spokesman.

“It is important to emphasize that given the readiness of the medical system in Russia and the high standards of hygiene and disinfection, this risk is under control,” she summed up.

Mucormycosis, or “black mold”, is a complication caused by a fungal infection. The disease can develop in those who are in contact with fungal spores in the environment, or after the fungus enters the skin through a cut, scratch, or burn. The disease poses the greatest danger to patients with diabetes, as well as those whose immunity is reduced after fighting the disease, in particular with COVID-19.

June 11, 18:36 Infographics Mucormycosis, or “black mold”: what is this disease and who is at risk

Infographics

View 90,000 Mold in the apartment: why it forms and how to get rid of

Scientific evidence shows that mold appeared 200 million years ago and constantly accompanies people.Its presence can be found everywhere: in the air we breathe, on the walls of our apartments, on food.

The beneficial properties of this substance should not be underestimated. It is used in the production of antibiotics, some sausages and cheese products. But this is only true for some species. Molds are often harmful to health. Black mold in the apartment is especially dangerous.

Getting to know each other: what is mold?

This is a fungus with a microscopic structure.Despite its simplicity, it has many cells that form long filaments – hyphae. The microorganism multiplies through spores. They are constantly present in the air, but they are in a calm state. Their activation begins as soon as they get into favorable conditions for development. The main goal of a colony of microorganisms is to grow on the surface in different directions with the need to absorb as much nutrients as possible.

Let’s talk about types

In mycology (the science of fungi), there are many classifications according to various characteristics.The simplest differentiation method is by color. According to it, mold happens:

  • Black. Formed in the form of spots. Can be found on walls near balconies or windows, on food. Consists of different groups of microorganisms. The most dangerous is aspergillus. Often causes allergy by skin contact or intestinal upset if ingested.
  • Green. These are ascomycetes. Present on stone surfaces, bakery products and fermented milk products, vegetables.They multiply very quickly. Dangerous for people with reduced immunity.
  • White (mucor). These are zygomycete mushrooms. They can settle on walls, treats (bread and cheeses), in flower pots. Outwardly they resemble cotton wool. They are considered not too dangerous, but they can cause problems with the gastrointestinal tract, headaches, and skin rashes.
  • Yellow. Found on rice, fish, nuts, liver. Releases aflatoxin. It is the strongest carcinogen that can provoke the development of liver cancer or pneumonia.
  • Gray. Saprophytic fungi look like a grayish bloom. They are able to occupy any surface: fabric, paper, plastic, wood, stone. Also infects food, easily transmitted through flower seeds. It is problematic to withdraw.

The most harmless are pink and blue species. The first can be seen on rotten plant foods. The second is in the trees. It is used in the production of gourmet cheeses. Both species do not appear in the apartment.

The main places of localization of the fungus

Special conditions are required for mold to develop. Places most suitable for her appearance:

  • Wet rooms. The higher the humidity, the faster the mushroom colonies will appear there.
  • Rooms with temperature changes. Temperature fluctuations cause condensation to form. It is a favorable environment for mold growth.
  • Space with poor air circulation: storage room, cellar, walk-in closets.
  • Food products that are not sealed or sealed tightly. Mold “loves” vegetables and fruits with a high sugar and acid content: citrus fruits, peaches, apples, homemade pickles. It can form on porous products – bread, cottage cheese.

Look for the intruder on the walls and ceilings of kitchens, bathrooms, under windowsills, behind cabinets, even between pages of books in wet rooms. If she’s not there, you can calm down. It is unlikely that the fungus is localized elsewhere.

Causes of mold

It is imperative to fight mold in the apartment. But one cannot calm down by removing visible growths. First you need to eliminate the conditions for its appearance, find out the reasons. This unpleasant phenomenon is usually caused by:

  • Excess moisture resulting in increased humidity. An indicator exceeding 80% is considered dangerous. Dampness in the room can cause leaks in the roof, pipes.
  • Condensation has formed.It easily penetrates into cracks between the facing material, into the porous surface of the ceiling and walls. And together with the steam, spores of mushrooms also get there.
  • Lack of sunlight. The problem is relevant for residents of the northern regions due to the short-term annual insolation. Some rooms (bathrooms, storage rooms) do not have windows. The mold feels safe in them. After all, its main enemy is ultraviolet.
  • Disrupted air exchange. With good ventilation, there are no conditions for the development of microorganisms.In rooms with limited air movement, mold can almost always be found. Stagnation of air masses can be associated with malfunctions of air conditioning systems and supply and exhaust ventilation. They need to be periodically cleaned and disinfected.
  • Lack of antiseptic treatment. Antiseptics are not always used during construction and repairs. This negatively affects the microclimate, increases the likelihood of fungus appearance up to 98%.

Other factors can also contribute to the appearance of mold: freezing of walls, the proximity of groundwater (typical for private houses), disturbances in the heating system.First of all, end rooms suffer from mold formations. The situation can be corrected by high-quality thermal insulation, the use of additional heating devices.

Mold in the apartment: why is it dangerous?

Colonies of fungi on walls, ceilings, cabinets are often compared to a time bomb. Their appearance signals danger. In the beginning, molds do not have a negative impact on health. But prolonged contact with them leads to serious troubles, since most of the species have pathogenic forms.

The consequences of the growth of mold are sad: it releases carbon dioxide, essential oils, new spores into the air. This provokes the development of various pathologies. Among them:

1. Dermatoses and mycoses. They are characterized by lesions of the skin of varying severity due to the deposition of fungal spores on them.
2. Chronic diseases that cause irritation of the mucous membrane. So there is a constant runny nose, dry cough, conjunctivitis.
3. Articular rheumatic diseases.A person feels weakness in the limbs, drowsiness, he is pursued by headaches, general health worsens.
4. Lesions of the upper and lower respiratory tract. This can lead to the development of bronchitis or pneumonia.
5. Activation of cancer cells, leading to the appearance of malignant tumors.
6. Intoxication of the body as a result of spores entering the digestive tract. Expressed by diarrhea or constipation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain.
7.Allergic reactions. The appearance of skin rashes, itching, edema.

It should be understood: cleanliness in the apartment is not decisive for mold. According to studies by Russian microbiologists, even in rooms with exemplary order, 1 cubic meter of air contains up to 500 fungal spores, which cause the greatest harm to the body. To protect yourself from unpleasant consequences, it is necessary not only to periodically clean, but also to eliminate favorable conditions for the development of microorganisms, that is, to maintain optimal humidity and temperature conditions, to create conditions for unhindered air circulation.

How to get rid of mold in the bathroom?

The bathroom is one of the suitable places for the containment of mold fungi. Black spots of various sizes can often be seen in corners, ceilings and walls. They cannot be ignored. Use the standard action algorithm:

  • Determine the depth of the growths. If black spots are located on the surface, they can be easily removed mechanically. If mold penetrates under the plaster, facing tiles, get ready for repair.
  • Explore the room for the globality of defeat. Check not only the visually noticeable areas – sink, faucet, bathtub. Pay attention to the heated towel rails, the seams between the tiles, the space under the bathroom.
  • Eliminate the causes of mold: leaking taps, defective hood operation.
  • Mechanically clean the affected area. You can use industrial or folk remedies.
  • Perform antiseptic treatment.

Eliminating a fungal colony is only half the problem. It is important to prevent them from appearing in the future. This can be achieved by regularly checking the condition of the surfaces. In order not to create an environment favorable for microorganisms, you need to give up drying clothes in the bathroom, taking water procedures with a lot of steam. Installation of a “warm floor” will also help. With it, surfaces will dry faster.

Mold on the walls in the apartment: how to get rid of?

You need to start fighting an unpleasant phenomenon as soon as you notice it.Mold grows quickly and can grow through plaster to brick and concrete in a year. Then it will be even more difficult to remove it, and the constant proximity to it is harmful to health, leads to damage to furniture, and reduces the aesthetics of the room.

It is necessary to deal with mold lesions in a complex manner:

  • Clean the affected area mechanically. First, it must be abundantly moistened with water in order to prevent the spread of spores to other areas.
  • Treat the cleaned area with an antifungal agent, going beyond its borders.There can also be controversies. It is necessary to prevent the development of mycelium.
  • Dry the surface and ventilate the room.

Safety precautions must be observed when processing. It is necessary to work in clothes with long sleeves, gloves and a respirator. After disinfection, the room must be left for several hours (the time depends on the agent used). Returning to it, the room should be ventilated.

It is advisable to throw out things affected by the fungus.This will prevent the re-emergence of microorganisms.

How to treat mold in an apartment?

In hardware stores, spray cans are sold. These fungicidal preparations destroy fungal spores, inhibit the reproduction of microorganisms. But they are pesticides. Their use is unsafe in the presence of children, the elderly, and animals in the house. Experts recommend using fungicides in extreme cases when other options have not helped.

An effective remedy for mold in the apartment – bleach. He copes with different types of mushrooms. But it is suitable for tiles, glass, that is, non-porous substrates. Materials with a porous structure will absorb liquid matter. This will negatively affect the condition of the product and its appearance.

Essential oils are completely safe. They are expensive, but their consumption is economical. The bubble is enough to process the entire apartment. Especially appreciated are grapefruit seed, tea tree, rosemary and lavender oils.After using them in the bathroom, the shower can be taken no earlier than 12 hours.

Traditional methods of struggle

In the arsenal of every housewife there are several recipes passed down from generation to generation. Stationery glue, copper sulfate, vinegar help well. Several solutions can be prepared to kill mold:

  • Dissolve 2 liters of vinegar and 0.5 kg of copper sulfate in 10 liters of water.
  • 10 liters of water will require 0.4 kg of boric acid, 0.9 kg of borax and 1.4 liters of vinegar.
  • Take 4 parts of water, 2 parts each of hydrogen peroxide and vinegar, 1 part of boric acid.

The solutions should be applied by spraying or with a brush.

The use of baking soda with vinegar gives good results. First, sodium carbonate is applied to the affected area. Then vinegar is poured on top. The resulting foam easily penetrates porous materials and cleans away mold lesions.

Prevention in brief

Keeping a colony of fungi from settling in your home is easy.It is necessary to ventilate the room daily in the morning and in the evening. Carry out timely repair of the air conditioner, humidifier. Monitor the humidity in the room. The multifunctional ventilation system Airnanny A7 will help with this. It traps and destroys mold, harmful gases, viruses, maintains optimal humidity and temperature values, and ventilates with closed windows.

Forget mold forever! With the observance of preventive measures, this will not be difficult.Let your home have coziness and a comfortable microclimate.

90,000 Mold is also a mushroom

Mold is also a mushroom

Ometova V.O. 1


1 Municipal budgetary educational institution “Secondary school No. 2 of the city of Dimitrovgrad, Ulyanovsk region”

Besschetnova L.A. 1


1MBOU secondary school No. 2


The text of the work is placed without images and formulas.
The full version of the work is available in the “Work files” tab in PDF format

Introduction

In everyday life, we often have to deal with a greenish bloom on stale food. What kind of bloom is this, why do we consider moldy bread unsuitable for nutrition and, at the same time, buy cheese in the store with the same bloom and consider it edible?

Interest in the topic arose when I suddenly discovered that the bread in a plastic bag in the kitchen was covered with a green coating.Mom said the bread was moldy. Where did this mold come from, and what is it? I’ve seen mold many times before, but the most interesting thing started after I looked at it through a magnifying glass. What I saw with a magnifying glass interested me, and a lot of questions arose in my head. I wondered: “What is mold? Does it benefit or harm? ”

Relevance: Mold and fungi secretly accompany mankind throughout its history, and it appeared much earlier than man himself.Despite a lot of scientific research, mold remains one of the unsolved mysteries. She has not been fully studied and appears every time in a new quality.

Problem: To date, many scientific works are devoted to the study of mold, but scientists have not come to a consensus whether it is harmful or beneficial to humans.

Object: mold.

Subject: products affected by mold, the conditions for its appearance.

Purpose: Investigation of mold conditions .

To achieve this goal, the following tasks were set:

1. Study the material on the topic.

2. Conduct a survey of third-graders.

3. Investigate the causes of mold on food.

Try to grow mold on food.

4.Share your results with third grade students,

Prepare and distribute a memo “Measures against mold.”

My hypothesis : mold belongs to the kingdom of fungi, it plays not only a negative role in human life.

Research methods:

– study of literature, Internet resources;

– observation;

– photographing.

– analysis of the obtained results

Chapter 1.

What is mold.

In SI Ozhegov’s dictionary, the following definition of mold is given: “Mold is plaque formed by special fungi, accumulating in the form of blurry spots on something rotting, damp.”

In the Soviet Encyclopedic Dictionary, mold is described as “plaque on food, plant debris and other organic substrates, that is, bedding, objects or substances that serve as a breeding ground for microorganisms.The deposits are formed by the so-called mold fungi. ”

Mold (mold fungi) is a representative of a special kingdom of living nature. Mold belongs to a class of fungi of over 100,000 species, including cap fungi, rust fungi and yeast. Mold is the common name for a fungus that happens:

– moldy (grows on stone, concrete, paint),

– blue fungus (grows in the fiber of the tree),

– rotting fungus (bacterial, white, brown rot growing on wood),

– yeast fungus (on food).(Appendix 1)

Molds are found almost everywhere. They are found both in a person’s home and in the external environment.

Mold spreads through the air in the form of microscopic spores. When it hits a damp surface, it germinates in the finest filaments. Loves dirt very much. The dirtier the dwelling, the more bacteria, and the more bacteria, the more fungi.

Black, green, red, blue, white mold is so named for the color of its outer part of the filaments.

1.2. Benefits or harms of mold?

It has long been believed that mold is harmless to humans and even useful in some way. But is it? Molds destroy the health of people and their homes. Even in a clean room, a person breathes in the air filled with their spores. Should human immunity weaken from a disease, secret agents of mold that live in the body, affecting organs and bones, cause terrible diseases such as migraine, runny nose, otitis media, bronchitis, rhinitis, bronchial asthma, cardiovascular disorders, mycotoxicosis.

Mold is capable of releasing toxic substances – mycotoxins, which can harm the body of humans and animals. The effects of mold are felt when mold spores penetrate through the inhaled air, across the surface of the skin, or are swallowed with food.

Mold is everywhere, the fungus that forms mold on bread is mucor . ( Appendix 2) Mukor multiplies by spores that can spread through the air.The spores of these fungi are very small, they, like bacteria, surround us everywhere. And if favorable conditions are created for the dispute – there is moisture and nutrition – then a mold fungus can grow in this place. Mukorovye mushrooms often multiply on various food products: bread, jam, vegetables, fruits, as well as on fodder for livestock, on the droppings of herbivores. Mushrooms take nutrients from them, due to which they grow. Mukorovye fungi constantly live in the soil, where they participate in the decomposition of organic matter.These mushrooms need oxygen to grow, but some are able to grow in the absence of free oxygen.

Mold on vegetables and fruits is formed by mushrooms of a different class. They belong to the group imperfect mushrooms , which are widespread throughout the world. Many of them live in the soil. They are found in abundance on various plants, take part in the decomposition of organic residues and in the soil-forming process. Imperfect mushrooms include mushrooms of the genus penicilli and aspergillus. Imperfect mushrooms form mold on citrus and bulbous plants, infect berries, potato tubers, beets, tomatoes, cucumbers, cabbage heads, and cereals. (Appendix 3)

We most often treat her with disdain, cut off green spots of mold from a crust of bread or a piece of old cheese, remove a thin white film from jam, and calmly eat what is left without even knowing how dangerous it is. Even if only one half of the orange is affected by mold, then the whole fruit is affected.Certain molds can have adverse effects on the health of farm animals, significantly reducing the yield.

Mushrooms infect grain, forage, straw and hay stocks. Sometimes products become unusable due to the toxicity of the fungus metabolites.

With strong growth of molds in the straw, self-heating and even ignition of the haystacks can occur.

The development of mold fungi on the surface of building and finishing materials leads to the physical destruction of the latter.Mold has a particularly harmful effect on wooden structures.

The worst thing about black mold is that it is almost impossible to get rid of it. You can try to remove it with the help of various means designed to combat mold, but getting rid of it forever is impossible. The mold changes and becomes more aggressive. Even if a disaster strikes and the world dies, the mold will survive safely.

But mold, in addition to harmful, has useful properties (Appendix 4).

Well-known yeast is a tiny fungus. Even in a small piece of fresh yeast, there are countless amounts of them. At high magnification, the yeast appears bluish-green beads. With them, as if by magic, the dough rises, bubbles, and bread and pies become airy, fluffy.

Many tiny fungi “work” in factories and plants. Some help a person to cook yogurt, kefir, cheese, citric acid. Others extend the shelf life of butter.

Sometimes in the field you can see plants with black, as if burnt, ears. Ergot, a very dangerous fungus, has worked. But, as they say, every cloud has a silver lining. Over time, scientists became interested in ergot. And it turned out that a wonderful medicine can be obtained from this fungus. It stops heavy bleeding.

In 1928, Scottish microbiologist Alexander Fleming noticed that some kind of mold had destroyed the bacteria he needed for experiments, around the mold spots, all colonies of Staphylococcus aureus had died.The scientist was really surprised, because in his memory there was not a single case of death of staphylococci under the influence of other microorganisms, and even more so the dissolution of their colonies. He found that the action of the fungus does not apply to all microbes, but mainly to pathogenic bacteria, and came to the conclusion that “the fungus produces an antibacterial substance that infects some microbes and not others.” Fleming named this substance penicillin after the miracle mushroom.

Fungi and mold can be of great benefit to humans.Portuguese scientists with their help hope to rid mankind of garbage and waste.

Employees of the Technological Institute of Chemistry and Biology have identified five hundred species of mushrooms that can absorb the most difficult to digest substances. Moreover, as a result of the waste disposal process, useful substances are generated that are used in the pharmaceutical industry.

Edible mold also exists. In the manufacture of the famous cheeses “Roquefort”, “Camembert” they use the so-called “noble mold”.

But a moldy object at home, no need to stir it up, it is better to carefully close it with something and throw it away. The most important thing in this case is not to breathe in spore material. If only part of the fruit is affected by the fungus, it means that the whole fruit is affected by the spores of the fungus. Moldy foods should not be eaten, first getting rid of the visible part of the mold. And you can’t live in a house where mold grows.

Food allergy develops when mold spores enter the gastrointestinal tract.

The most poisonous mildew is considered to be yellow, which produces the strongest aflatoxin . Yellow mold affects food (most susceptible to infection are liver, fish, milk, rice, peanuts).

The “harmless” mold on the surface of the jam is a real poison that can accumulate in the body and lead to liver cancer.

Mold can attack almost any material. It easily destroys paint and varnish coatings, crumbles brick, cement and concrete (a concrete slab affected by a fungus crumbles in just a couple of years).Mold destroys books because storage conditions often correspond to optimal ones for its development.

Based on the knowledge gained, the following rules were created:

– You must not eat foods contaminated with mold, they must be destroyed;

– so that the products do not become moldy, they must be stored with access to oxygen and for a short period;

– so that mold does not form in the rooms, you need to ventilate them and avoid high humidity.

Chapter 2.

2.1. Conditions for the appearance and development of mold.

Mold spreads through the air in the form of microscopic spores. When it hits a damp surface, it germinates in the finest filaments ( mycelium ).

It is believed that the ideal conditions for the appearance and spread of mold are a temperature of + 20 C and a relative humidity of over 95%. Poor air exchange supports the growth of fungi.In addition, mold loves dirt. The dirtier the dwelling, the more bacteria, and the more bacteria, the more fungi.

Mold grows actively at room temperature, high humidity and poor ventilation on many indoor materials and coatings, including concrete, plaster, wood, plastics, rubber, linoleum backing, painted surfaces, carpets, books, etc. etc.

A favorable environment for mold growth is formed in flower pots.Mold is most severe in autumn, as it is associated with the decomposition of vegetation.

Mold thrives on freezing temperatures. She, like trees in winter, does not “live an active life,” but she does not die either. As the temperature rises, mold spores again. High temperatures can kill mold, however, for the destruction of some species, exposure to temperature +100 C 0 is necessary for 1-2 hours.

2.2. Experiment.

I decided to test the information received in practice in order to better study the mold and understand the cause of its appearance.

To perform the experiment, I took:

1. Samples on which I will conduct the experiment (fresh berries)

2. Warm and cool environments (room temperature and refrigerator) (Appendix 5).

Berries were placed:

– in a cool place (refrigerator, open), sample 1;

– dry warm (at room temperature, open), sample 2;

– in a cool place (refrigerator, closed), sample 3;

– warm light (at room temperature, closed), sample 4;

I entered the results of observations in the table (Appendix No. 6).

In the course of his experiment, it turned out that samples No. 1,2,3 underwent slight changes, which cannot be said about sample No. 4. This sample already showed small spots of mold on the 3rd day. On the 5th day, the green spots increased, on the 7th day, the mold grew.

After doing the experiment, I confirmed my assumption: air humidity and heat are the main conditions for the development of molds.

Therefore, in order to keep food from mold, it is necessary to store it in a dry and cool place.

A survey was conducted among classmates, during which it turned out that few know what mold is and what to do with it. So my knowledge and practical experiment were disseminated among students of grade 1 and brought practical benefits (Appendix 7).

Conclusion.

During my research, I learned that mold is microscopic fungi that form characteristic deposits (molds) on the surface of organic substrates (food, paper, leather, textiles, etc.).). Mold spreads very quickly and infects all accessible surfaces.

Mold is not only harmful but also beneficial. The beneficial mold is used in the production of medicines that greatly help a person to cope with diseases. In addition, mold is used in the manufacture of food products, such as cheeses, which are delicacies.

On the other hand, mold is poison. A person who eats stale, moldy food can cause serious harm to the body.Also, in dwellings, the walls or ceilings of which are covered with mold, it is not safe to be and live. It causes dizziness, headaches, and lung disease.

An important condition for the development of mold is moisture, heat and the absence of oxygen (Appendix 8).

Thus, the conclusion suggests itself: it is necessary to observe the measures for the correct storage of products; keep the kitchen clean; do not use food contaminated with mold.

List of used resources:

1.Sergeev B.F., Tomilin A.N. “Great Encyclopedia of Primary School. Question answer”. – M .: CJSC OLMA Media Group, 2013 – 109,111 p.

2. New illustrated encyclopedia in 20 volumes. Book. 14.M., Great Russian Encyclopedia, 2006.

3. Ozhegov SI Explanatory Dictionary of the Russian Language.- 18th edition, edited by N.Yu.Shvedova. M: Russian language. – 1987. – 450 p.

4. Prokhorov A.M. Soviet Encyclopedic Dictionary.-4th ed. – M .: Sov. encyclopedia, 1988.

5. Fedotova ON. and others. The world around. 2nd class: Reader – M .: Akademkniga / Textbook, 2012 .– 67 p.

6. Fedotova ON and others. The world around. 2 cl .: Textbook – M .: Akademkniga / Textbook, 2012 .– 109 p.

APPENDIX.

Appendix 1

Variety of molds

Fig 1.Mold

Rice 2. Blue fungus

Rice 3. Brown mold

Rice 4. Yeast fungi

Appendix 2

Flour fungi.

Appendix 3

Imperfect mushrooms.

Appendix 4

Table “Role of mold”

Negative role

Positive Role

– cause dangerous diseases;

– spoil human food;

– ruining books;

– destroy houses;

– destroy the crop;

– cause death of animals;

– some types of fungi can cause diathesis in children, allergies that turn into asthma and even cancer.

– a medicine has been obtained – penicillin, which is harmful to bacteria;

– these little workers help to get yogurt, kefir, wines, noble cheeses;

– without mold, there would be no circulation of substances on Earth.

Appendix 5

Start of experiment

Berries were placed in different conditions:

– in a cool place (refrigerator, open), sample 1;

– dry warm (at room temperature, open), sample 2;

– in a cool place (refrigerator, closed), sample 3;

– warm light (at room temperature, closed), sample 4

Changes during the experiment.

Appendix 6.

Experiment Results

Conditions

3

day

5

day

6

day

7

day

8

day

Open cup in refrigerator

Winding

Drying

Mold growth

Mold growth

Cup open on table at room temperature

Winding

Drying

Drying increases

Drying

Berries in a bag in the refrigerator

Winding

Winding

Berries in a bag on the table at room temperature

Small spots

Greenish spots increase

Small fluff

Mold growth

Appearance of black plaque

Appendix 7

QUESTIONNAIRE “What is mold?”

Do you know what mold is?

a) yes

b) no

c) I can explain _____________________________________________________

2.Where did you find mold?

a) on food

b) at the entrance

c) in the country or in the house

g) did not meet

What do you do if you find mold?

a) emit product

b) cut off the mold, the rest is eaten

c) don’t know

What harm does mold cause?

a) poisoning

b) allergy

v) harmless

Questionnaire.

Appendix 8.

REMINDER “Measures of protection against mold”

1. Provide good ventilation. Ventilate the area thoroughly. If the bathroom is very wet after a shower, it should be ventilated.

2. Do not allow water to flow from the taps, this will increase the humidity.

3. Reduce the number of houseplants. Some mushrooms grow especially wildly in the ground of the flowerpot.

4. It is possible to reduce the humidity in the room by using an air conditioner.

But remember that the air conditioner itself can become a source of mushrooms and their spores. Use an air conditioner with filters to prevent mold from growing inside.

5. It is necessary to provide good heating, try not to turn off at night. The formation of dampness on the walls is much greater when the room cools down.

6. Rooms should be ventilated for a short time, but intensively.

7. Ventilate and dry damp clothing before storing it in the closet.

8. Do not keep dried flowers in the room, they often contain mold.

9. Small dark spots found on walls or ceilings should be treated with hydrogen peroxide or table vinegar as the first emergency measure.

10. Cover prepared food with foil to protect it from airborne mold spores.

11.Place perishable food from cans in clean containers and put them in the refrigerator immediately.

12. Do not leave perishable food out of the refrigerator for more than two hours.

13. Store leftovers for no more than 3-4 days to prevent mold from growing.

REMEMBER that it is much easier and less costly to prevent mold growth than to remove and remediate mold.

Job views: 2133

Mold in the apartment: the reasons for the appearance and how to deal with the infection

Mold in the apartment is familiar to many tenants, it is a black plaque on the walls and other surfaces of the apartment, quickly spreading and difficult to remove.The peculiarity of mold is that it is the cause of not only an aesthetic defect in the interior. Mold is a very dangerous formation from the point of view of the health of people living in an apartment or house. We will talk about the dangers of mold, the reasons for its appearance and how to deal with it today, in this article.

Causes of mold

The main mistake in the fight against mold is that the owners of the house calm down after removing the visible part of the mold.This is wrong, because mold easily and quickly returns to its place if the root cause of mold in the apartment is not corrected. Let’s figure out what these reasons are. By and large, there is only one reason for mold – excessive moisture and dampness in the apartment. All other causes are only the primary sources of mold formation:

  1. high humidity in an apartment with a disturbed ventilation system;
  2. freezing of walls;
  3. soil dampness in a private house;
  4. 90,079 violations in the heating system;

  5. leaks: in pipes, on the roof.

Those who have ever encountered mold in an apartment know that removing mold from walls and surfaces is just the beginning of the struggle.To remove mold from your home once and for all, you need a comprehensive approach to address the root cause, consisting of several sequential steps:

  1. removal of visible mold from affected areas and surfaces;
  2. surface treatment with anti-mold agents to prevent its appearance in the future;
  3. taking out of the house items affected by mold and not subject to restoration;
  4. Creation of the right conditions for staying in an apartment or house, in which the formation of mold is impossible.

Remember that the most effective method of fighting mold is maintaining optimal humidity in the apartment and establishing a ventilation system, preventing the appearance of mold is more accessible and easier than methods of destroying it. Since spores of fungal infection are present in every apartment, and only the creation of favorable conditions for their reproduction entails the spread of mold throughout the house.

You may find it useful

Harm to mold

There are several types of mold, which are common and found in the apartment and house.Each of these species is dangerous in its own way, the toxicity of mold spores is known to most residents who are faced with this scourge.

  • White mold. Fungal infection typical of plants in the home. Most often it affects flowers, ground shoots, root system and plant soil. It manifests itself as a small spider-like bloom in a flower pot, which spreads quickly, building up a fluffy mass. Regarding other types of mold, the elimination of white plaque is easiest: in the absence of positive dynamics during treatment, the flower can simply be removed from the apartment.For humans, white mold is dangerous by the appearance and aggravation of allergies.

  • Green mold. The most common target of damage is expired foodstuffs. It is impossible to eat the affected areas, like the rest of the product, since mold spores enter the gastrointestinal tract can cause serious reactions in the future. There are lesions with green mold and inedible objects: building materials, brick, wood.
  • Blue mold. An unpleasant dull blue tint appears on wooden surfaces and finishing materials: furniture, parquet, picture frames.If you clean the affected area, cover it with putty and apply a paint and varnish coating, the plaque will still show through, because it is not so easy to get rid of it.

  • Mold decay. Another type of mold that grows exclusively on wood. The result of mold damage is a decrease in the weight of the tree, the appearance of cracks, visually rotting mold manifests itself with a brown and gray bloom.
  • Black mold. The most common and dangerous enemy of humans and surfaces in the home. The peculiarity of the spread of black mold is that it does not cling to any specific material, it can be found on walls and window sills, on plastic, concrete and wood, furniture and interior items are also susceptible to the appearance of this infection.

The toxicity of mold to humans has been proven by doctors and scientists.Problems begin with mild respiratory diseases, which recur regularly and too often. Further, the person’s allergies begin to worsen, the nervous system is affected: sleep disturbances, fainting, dizziness. In the worst cases, mold causes diagnoses in humans such as bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia, and even describes the relationship with the development of lung cancer. In addition to the impact on human health, the development of mold negatively affects the materials.They lose strength, become unreliable, fail, ceasing to fulfill the role assigned to them. It is important to understand that the appearance of mold in itself is not dangerous, do not be alarmed or nervous, get yourself together and start fighting the disease. The listed dangerous reactions are characteristic of total mold damage to an apartment with a long stay of a person in it.

Mold control

The most effective way to deal with mold is to use specialized mold removal chemicals.To use them, you will need to clean off visible mold from the surface, treat the surface with a product (most often, it is sold in a container with a spray bottle), and wait until it dries. However, it is necessary to understand that a chemical agent is unsafe; if there are children and animals in the house, it is important to minimize the use of the agent. Use household chemicals for mold only if traditional and well-known methods have not helped. A few of the more common options I’ll tell you now:

  • Bleach. The main active ingredient of bleach is also used for the production of special products, therefore bleach is most effective against all types of mold. However, remember that the use of mildew bleach is not possible on all surfaces: a product for non-porous structures (glass, tiles) is suitable, porous materials will absorb the liquid form, deteriorating the condition of the product.

  • Household liquids. These methods of dealing with mold include solutions that every housewife has in the house. For example, vinegar is an acid that successfully fights most types of mold. A substitute for vinegar is citric acid, which, moreover, does not have the same unpleasant odor as vinegar. Soda can be found in every home, it is also a good helper in the fight against fungal plaque. Hydrogen peroxide and ammonia will cope with black spots, but ammonia must be used carefully: it, like bleach, penetrates the structure of porous materials, and an unpleasant and pungent aroma is very stable, like vinegar.A mixture of hydrogen peroxide, boric acid and vinegar is the most effective folk remedy used to remove fungal plaque.
  • Oils. Oil is a completely natural product, loved by housewives for its safety in use. The disadvantage of using oils is their high price, but oil consumption is economical, one small bottle is enough to process the entire apartment. Tea tree oil, lavender and rosemary oils, and grapefruit seed extract are suitable for removing mold.

Prevention of mold

It is much easier to prevent the appearance of mold in the apartment than to get rid of it forever in the future.Fungal plaque has the peculiarity of returning regularly if the cause of its occurrence is not eliminated. Therefore, the prevention of the appearance of mold is aimed at combating dampness in the apartment.

• Regularly check the operation of the home systems: ventilation and heating systems. Carry out repairs immediately after detecting a breakdown.

• Monitor the operation of the humidifier, purchase an air conditioner in excessively humid air.

• Do not neglect the ventilation of rooms.

• Avoid artificial humidification: drying laundry indoors, no extractor hood – potentially hazardous activities.

• During renovation use an antiseptic primer, it will protect against the latent spread of mold under the finishing material.

• Regularly treat surfaces susceptible to mold growth in the case of a single occurrence of mold.

Mold is a dangerous phenomenon, the fight against fungal infection must be started immediately after detection. A successful outcome largely depends on the regularity of processing and a responsible attitude.

25.12.2018

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90,000 Experts answered whether the St. Petersburg “black mold” is dangerous

Some media wrote that a terrible infection would soon rage on the territory of Russia.

Residents of St. Petersburg began to worry about the disease “mucormycosis”, which is allegedly caused by black mold and can deprive a person whose immunity is weakened, for example, by coronavirus.Experts in a conversation with the “Nevskie Novosti” publication explained that there are a number of very important “inaccuracies” in this story.

Initially, the media reported on an outbreak of mucormycosis in India, and then that the first cases were recorded in Russia. The disease affects the nasal sinuses, lungs, and many Indians have lost their sight: doctors had to perform eye surgery on infected people in order to save the lives of patients.

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  • The epidemiologist assessed the risk of the spread of “black mold” in Russia

Mucormycosis does exist, but it is caused not by black (Aspergillus niger), but by a much rarer white (Mucor) mold, as the chief physician of the Dermatology Center Ekaterina Mokina said.These fungi do not live on the skin, but on the mucous membranes (mouth, nose). First of all, they affect people with immunodeficiencies and weakened immunity – that is why patients with coronavirus also caught mucormycosis. In addition, which explains the incidence in India, the spread of white mold is influenced by a hot and humid climate. They know how to treat mucormycosis – the main thing is a timely appeal to doctors.

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Black mold does not pose such a threat – these are mushrooms that are found in all rooms in Russia, as explained by Damenik Cassanelli, senior lecturer at the Department of Plant Biology and Ecology of Kuban State University.It appears where it is humid.

Rospotrebnadzor hastened to calm down the Russians: only one case of mucormycosis infection of a patient with coronavirus was recorded in the country – not even an Indian situation nearby. In addition, cultural differences are extremely significant in this matter: in Russia, there is a completely different climate and food culture, which affects the spread of the fungus.