Can Water Damage Really Make Me Sick?

Water damage is more than just an inconvenience; it can pose serious health risks to you and your family. Mold thrives in damp environments and is a common consequence of water damage. Unfortunately, mold isn’t just ugly and smelly, it can seriously affect your health.

The Hidden Danger of Mold and Water Damage

If water leaks into areas like basements, walls or ceilings and isn’t properly addressed that invites mold to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Exposure to mold spores can trigger a wide range of health problems. If you or a family member suffers from asthma, allergies or other respiratory conditions, mold exposure can make these conditions much worse. Children, the elderly, and even pets are specifically vulnerable to the harmful effects of mold.

The Vulnerable: How Mold Affects the Elderly, Kids, and Pets

Elderly: Unfortunately as we age, our immune systems weaken, making it harder to fight off infections or harmful substances. Mold exposure can trigger respiratory issues and worsen existing lung conditions like COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), as well as increase the risk of severe asthma attacks. Sometimes the long-term effects of mold exposure can lead to chronic respiratory issues or infections that require serious medical attention (this could happen to anyone with a weakened immune system, not just the elderly).

Children: Children’s immune systems and respiratory systems are still developing, which makes them particularly sensitive to mold exposure. Mold can worsen asthma and cause frequent coughing, wheezing and nasal congestion. In children who are already prone to allergies, mold can trigger reactions such as rashes, itchy eyes as well as sinus infections and other issues. Studies have also shown that children who are exposed to mold for long periods may be at an increased risk for developing asthma in the future.

Pets: Pets, particularly those that are older, or with existing health conditions or allergies, can also suffer from mold exposure. Like humans, pets can develop respiratory issues, skin irritation, or digestive problems when exposed to mold. Cats and dogs are more likely to show signs of mold allergies through coughing, sneezing, or wheezing and their constant movement around the home can increase their exposure.

The Serious Health Risks: Asthma, Respiratory Issues and More

Asthma is one of the most common conditions exacerbated by mold exposure. Whether you already have asthma or are genetically predisposed to it, mold can trigger asthma attacks and worsen symptoms. This can lead to:

Increased frequency and severity of asthma attacks
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness
Chronic coughing
Wheezing
Difficulty breathing

Beyond asthma, mold exposure can also cause other severe health issues, such as:

Chronic sinusitis and sinus infections
Nasal congestion and frequent sneezing
Headaches, dizziness and fatigue
Skin rashes or irritation

For individuals with weakened immune systems, mold can lead to more severe infections and long-term health problems.

What to Do if You Suspect Mold from Water Damage

If you’ve experienced water damage in your home, it’s critical to address mold growth as quickly as possible.

First In Restoration Can Help

If you’ve experienced water damage and suspect mold growth, don’t wait for the health issues to worsen. First In Restoration specializes in mold remediation, ensuring your home is safe and your family’s health is protected.

Our IICRC-certified team can remove mold safely and quickly, addressing the root cause of the problem to prevent future issues.

Call First In Restoration at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com for an inspection and mold removal services. Keep your home safe, clean and mold-free to protect your family’s health!