Most individuals who come across dirt in their properties are unsure if it is mold or mildew. Many may think that these terms have the same meaning. However, if one were to take a closer look, both are not so similar after all.
If one is seeking to understand the detrimental effects that mold and mildew could cause to their health, it is also key to be aware of their nuances. Do continue scrolling to explore more regarding their nuances, the adverse effects that it may have on one’s health, and how it can be prevented from spreading in common spaces.
Mold vs. Mildew
Although mold and mildew have many similarities, mildew is a type of mold. Mold and mildew are both fungi and can be easily spotted in any type of property. They develop in damp conditions and on different surfaces rapidly, increasing the risk of health issues that one may develop.
What is Mold?
Also known as a type of fungus that develops from microscopic spores present in the air, mold can be spotted in areas where nature is present and is an essential component of the ecosystem. Mold supports the decay of natural substances such as rotten leaves and dead trees. This process enables for the nutrients from these natural substances to infiltrate the soil and enables living organisms to absorb them for use.
Although mold is an essential component of nature, it may be cause harm to one if it were to develop indoors. It can also cause structural damage to offices and other buildings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) discovered that molds develop rapidly in a humid, damp, and warm environment.
Can Mold Affect One’s Health?
If an individual is allergic to mold or experiences breathing issues such as asthma, they should not be exposed to mold as it may worsen their symptoms. Here are some symptoms of respiratory allergies that one should look out for:
- Itchy nose, eyes, and throat
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- Dry, flaky skin
If an individual has a mold allergy as well as pre-existing conditions such as asthma, being exposed may cause them to:
- Wheeze
- Cough
- Experience chest tightness or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
What is Mildew?
Mildew is a type of mold that is likely to develop on surfaces that are smooth and damp. This is one way to distinguish the difference between mold and mildew, as mold grows on any surface and not just smooth ones.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) states that mildew is regarded as mold in its premature stage. However, it is an issue that is definitely less detrimental and is easier to combat, unlike mold that has already been developed.
Can Mildew Affect One’s Health?
Although mildew is known to many for its adverse effects on nature, it can also cause harm to an individual’s health. Mildew produces the same effects as mold if one were to inhale and exhale its spores. The potential health effects that both mildew and mold carry are similar to one another.
Just like mold, some respiratory symptoms that mildew carry include:
- Headaches
- Wheezing
- Nasal and sinus congestion
- Nose, throat, and eye irritation
What You Can Do
Mildew will carry on developing if it is not removed and it may also aggravate one’s symptoms. If you know of someone who is going through these symptoms and have mold allergies, it is recommended to hire a professional to examine areas that they frequently visit. The professional will be able to search through to see if there are any problems with it. You can start simply by contacting us to arrange for a mold inspector to search thoroughly through your property. Call (877) 540-8562 now or click to have one of our consultants reach out to you. We are more than willing to provide you with the help that you need.