Asthma and Allergies: Part 3

Mold and Moisture

Review of Signs and SymptomsPeople with allergies have hyperactive immune systems

that think harmless things, such as pet dander, are dangerous. Their bodies react to try to fight off the danger.

Allergies -itchy, stuffy nose, red eyes, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, rash

Asthma is a disease that causes inflammation and narrows the airways, making it difficult to breathe

Asthma- coughing , wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath

What is mold?Mold is tiny spores that break down dead

matterMold needs moisture and a warm

temperature to grow

Why is mold a problem indoors?Molds produce allergens or toxic substances

that can harm humansMolds can induce asthma attacks10% of the population is allergic to mold

Where should I look to find mold?BathroomsLaundry roomsUnder kitchen sinksBasementsAir ducts

How do I know if I have mold?Mold often looks like black spots and is

commonly found in bathrooms due to the high humidity

Symptoms of a reaction are hay-fever like symptoms (sneezing, coughing, respiratory symptoms)

Mold can have a musty smell

Review Question 1Which of these is not a common symptom of

mold allergies?A) coughingB)sneezingC) vomitingD) runny nose

How do I prevent mold inside?Act fast-if wet areas are dried within 24-48

hours most of the time mold will not growKeep indoor humidity low-use humidifiers if

necessary, use vents in bathroomsVent appliances such as dryers, stoves, or

heatersAvoid having carpet in bathrooms, kitchens,

or basementsTake wet items outside if possible-direct

sunlight can prevent mold growth

Review Question 2Which of these will help prevent mold

growth?Choose all that apply.

A) Make sure wet surfaces are dried within 24-48 hours

B)Vent dryers into the atticC) Avoid carpets in bathroomsD) Take wet items outside to dry in sunlight

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

How do I fix mold in my house?Make sure to clean up mold AND fix the

problem, otherwise the mold will come backScrub mold with detergent and waterDo not cover up mold with paint—it will still

be there underneath the paint unless you clean it up

Fix any leaks you may findMake sure to let areas dry completely after

cleaning

Review Question 3True or False

A mixture of ammonia and bleach should be used to clean up mold.

How do I protect myself when cleaning up mold?Wear N95 mask

Wear gloves

Wear goggles

Make children leave the house while cleaning

Review Question 4Which of these is not necessary to use when

cleaning up mold?

A)Hazmat suitB) N95 maskC)glovesD)goggles

Why is it so important?Mold can attract cockroaches, rodents, or

dust mitesExposure to these pests can lead to more

respiratory issues, further complicating the problem

ReferencesCommunity environmental health resource center.

(2010). Mold and moisture. Retrieved from http://www.afhh.org/hps/hps_cehrc_mold&moisture_materials.pdf

Environmental health and safety online. (2011). A brief guide to mold, moisture, and your home. Retrieved from http://www.ehso.com/indoorairmold.php

Minnesota department of health. (2010). Moisture and mold in my home. Retrieved from http://www.energy.wsu.edu/Documents/mold_moisture.pdf

ReferencesUnited States Department of Housing and

Development. (2010). About mold and moisture. Retrieved from http://www.hud.gov/offices/lead/healthyhomes/mold.cfm

United States EPA. (2010). A brief guide to mold, moisture, and your home. Retrieved from http://www.epa.gov/iedmold1/preventionandcontrol.html

Quiz Answers1. C2. A,C,D3. False4. A