Health hazard from mold in the apartment

17 percent of people in Germany live in mold

09.03.2012

If tenants discover mold in their own four walls, then in many cases this has already been considerably expanded. The health damage for the residents takes place long before the first discovery. In some cases, sufferers suffer a lifetime of chronic sequelae. However, many people are unaware of the health hazard or are not serious about the effects of mold. Simple precautions can reduce the risk of mildew.

The danger of mold is underestimated by most German citizens. There are numerous health hazards from the mold fungi, which are usually stuck to damp walls. According to a study by the market research institute „Innofact“ on behalf of the apartment search portal „Realty world“ In which more than 1000 people participated, about 17 percent of all residents in Germany live in a home or house infested with mold. Since the moldy areas are usually in dark and not immediately visible corners, the rate is likely to be far higher, according to experts, as determined in the survey.

Many underestimate the danger of mold
Yet many see no appreciable danger in the harmful mushrooms. Every ninth respondent indicated that mold „not at all“ or „only a little“ affects the health of the residents. Even mildew can lead to nausea and vomiting, headaches, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. In severe cases, sufferers of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, immune disorders or allergies.

Moisture provokes formation of mold
A damp environment in buildings is the main cause of the development of poisonous mold fungi. The mushrooms find a rich on the damp walls „food supply“ in wallpaper, wood, plaster, wall coatings or paste. In addition, mold also settles in floor coverings, carpets, books, clothing or dust. Moisture is mainly provoked by incorrect ventilation or artificial humidity. In most cases, the fungus first occurs in the bathroom, as by showering or bathing a constant high humidity prevails. In addition, bedrooms are often affected, because many people renounce in the winter to turn on the heater and thus force the formation of mold.

Simple precautions
In order to prevent mold, usually simple measures are sufficient. The living areas and kitchen should have a constant room temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. In the bathroom, 21 degrees and the bedroom can be a bit cooler with 16 degrees at night. At least once a day a cross ventilation should be inserted. The ventilation should be done in all weathers, because the cold outside air is usually drier than the warm air in the room. If mold has already been discovered, a professional should immediately remove mold so that the fungus can not spread further. (Sb)

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Fungal infections (mycoses) in humans

Image: Infrogmation, Wikipedia.