Risk factors of household mold in dust are mold allergy symptoms, dust allergies, and ashma symptoms.
From allergies to mold — the health risks of household dust to your family
The average six-room home in the United States collects an impressive 40 lbs of dust in indoor environments each year. While dusting presents itself as a mundane household chore for many homeowners, those who have noticed dust around the house may not realize that it can work its way into carpets and rugs via air conditioner and HVAC systems — and bring a variety of health concerns along with it. From understanding what dust is made up of to how it can affect our health and immune system — and how to keep it at bay — here’s why avoiding dust buildup is so important.
Basic facts on the contents of dust
While many may not think about what dust actually contains, there’s actually quite a lot to make note of. One 2019 Washington Post article by Gabriel Filippelli points out that about one-third of dust is actually created inside the home, and that the contents of the dust differ depending on a variety of factors (such as the home’s age, climate, and cleaning/smoking habits). The article goes on to dissect what makes up household dust, in which research found that dust happens to contain tiny particles of human skin flakes, pet skin cells (also known as dander), and strangely enough — decomposed insects, food debris, carpet fibers, and more — including man made chemicals. Dust is where the infamous dust mites live — an insect-like pest that feeds on human skin cells. Thankfully, preventing dust buildup can be achieved by using a wet mop to dust with, while regular vacuuming will help keep dust allergies at bay where carpets are concerned.
Dust allergy, health problems, runny nose, chronic lung condition all from dust and mold contamination.
Dust inhalation and allergies
When looking at the health risks involved with dust, dust buildup can lead to serious health issues, including lung and fungal infections and even death in rare cases, according to Johns Hopkins Hospital lung expert Dr. Panagis Galiatsatos, who states “A good inhalation of dust could be life threatening depending on someone’s asthma development.” The USA Today article goes on to highlight the fact that chemicals inside stain repellents and lead-based-paint used in homes/apartments can also be found in some dust particles and can lead to subtle physical effects, which further underlines the hidden dangers involved. Due to the fact that we’re exposed to dust when breathing, maintaining a clean household environment is essential — especially when considering allergies.
Allergic reactions to indoor allergens
Dust mite allergies affect around 20 million people in the U.S., according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Healthline points out that long-term exposure to dust mite allergens could lead to sinus infections and asthma symptoms and notes that carpeting can trap and hold indoor humidity, thus creating the perfect environment for dust mites to thrive. While a dust mite allergy can involve typical, allergy symptoms — such as a runny/itchy nose, postnasal drip, cough, and scratchy throat (to name just a few), it’s noted that if you happen to experience both asthma and are allergic to dust mites, symptoms may include difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, and even severe asthma attack.
Indoor exposure of common indoor molds cause adverse health effects including lung inflammation.
The dangers of mold exposure
It’s important to note that both dust and carpets can encourage mold growth, which comes with health concerns of its own. While mold growth is common in indoor areas that contain excessive moisture, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that mold can enter the home in a variety of ways — such as through open doorways, windows, vents. Some individuals are sensitive to molds, and exposure can cause symptoms like stuffy nose or red/itchy eyes. The CDC goes on to mention that some individuals who have mold allergies or who experience asthma have increased risk of more intense reactions.
Prevent mold growth
According to the World Health Organization, mold grows and can be prevented by taking various precautions — such as ensuring that a home is well-ventilated with air conditioners to stabilize safe relative humidity and avoiding carpet in areas that are prone to mold growth, some mold — like black mold — should be inspected by, tested, and removed by a professional.
Certain molds like “Toxic black mold,” or Stachybotrys Chartarum, is a specific species of mold growth that can release mycotoxins into an indoor environment, and can lead to serious health complications. A variety of symptoms can result from exposure to the mycotoxin released from black mold, and range from dry eyes, sore throat, general discomfort to trouble breathing, vomiting, stomach pain, cognitive impairment, and rash.
Smell mold growing – kill mold spores
While determining that black mold is present can seem straightforward, getting a professional involved will determine if visible mold is in fact black mold, and can ensure you’re taking the proper steps in removing the mold problem, which will likely involve removing and replacing mold suitable nutrients like carpet and rugs.
Having a bit of household dust may not seem like a big deal, though it’s essential to recognize that there are a variety of health issues that can arise from it. From the concerning contents of the dust itself to dust mite allergies and the potential for mold growth, regular dusting, mold prevention, and using a high efficiency particulate air filter on your vacuum is essential in maintaining a healthy home.
