Some hazardous materials can have both short- and long-term health consequences.
The type of material and the level of exposure will determine the potential side effects.
Although mold and asbestos are not always visible, if they go unnoticed for an extended period of time, they can cause a variety of health issues. These are commonly referred to as real estate’s silent hazards.
While asbestos and mold are different, some asbestos removal companies also take care of mold removal and mold remediation. However, it is important to choose a licensed and professional contractor who can handle removal of both because asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health issues if it is not handled and removed properly.
Causes of Mold
Molds are fungus that can be found both in and outside a property. They procreate by producing tiny spores that can fly through the air and thrive on cellulose materials like wood, fabric, and paper.
Mold is harmful to human health and causes damage to building structure. Mold also disperses spores into the air that might be inhaled and cause respiratory issues.
What is Asbestos
A mineral fiber called asbestos is well-known for withstanding heat, electricity, and corrosion.
Asbestos is frequently discovered in construction materials like cement and insulation, as well as being employed as a reinforcing agent in a variety of industries.
However, asbestos fibers can lodge permanently in the lungs after being inhaled, which can cause respiratory conditions.
Effects of mold Exposure on Health
High levels of mold spore exposure can have negative health impacts, including:
Issues With the Respiratory System: Mold can emit allergens, irritants, and poisonous compounds that can injure the lungs, nose, and throat, leading to illnesses like asthma. Asthma episodes may be more common in people who are allergic to mold.
Allergic Reactions: Mold exposure can result in allergic reactions like hay fever, runny or blocked noses, itchy throats, persistent sneezing, and watery eyes. Extreme mold exposure might cause organ failure or even death.
Other health issues: Mold can encourage the growth of bacteria and other germs, which in some people can cause an inflammatory reaction. Additionally, lung infections and fungus infections are more likely.
The Impact of Asbestos on Health
Depending on how long and how intensely you were exposed to asbestos, different impacts may result. The following are some potential dangers linked to asbestos exposure:
- Asbestosis: Prolonged exposure to asbestos can cause lung scarring, which makes breathing difficult. Many years after exposure before an individual has symptoms of asbestosis.
- Mesothelioma: It is an uncommon kind of cancer that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. After asbestos exposure, symptoms can not show up for 30 to 40 years, and the disease typically has a one-year fatality rate.
- Pleural Disease: This is a non-cancerous lung illness that thickens the lungs and chest cavity with plaque. Some people’s lung function may be impacted.
- Small Pleural Effusions: Asbestos exposure can result in pockets of fluid accumulating around the lungs, which can make breathing difficult permanently.
- Lung Cancer: The chance of acquiring lung cancer is increased by smoking and asbestos exposure.
Before beginning any renovation work on a building constructed before the 1980s, it is crucial to employ asbestos removal professionals to conduct a thorough asbestos inspection.
Furthermore, just because mold isn’t visible doesn’t imply it isn’t there.
Consider arranging a free examination from mold removal and asbestos specialists to be sure that your home or place of business is clean of these substances.
You can read our other blog post on understanding asbestos insulation and removal for more details.
