Indoor mold can cause respiratory problems. While mold exposure is also often cited as a cause of fatigue, there is no scientific evidence to support or disprove this.
Mold spores and other fungal materials are known to cause a range of respiratory problems, including coughing, congestion, rhinitis, bronchitis, allergic pneumonia, alveolitis, diffuse pulmonary fibrosis and can exacerbate pre-existing asthma. They are especially dangerous to those with compromised immune systems who are susceptible to more serious respiratory infections. Mold grows in warm, humid areas, including around leaky doors or windows, under carpet, behind refrigerators or air conditioners, and under sinks. It is also a frequent problem in flooded areas.
If you have respiratory problems, asthma and allergies, a dehumidifier is a great option for reducing relative humidity and hence mold growth. Creating dry air with dehumidifiers for home use can keep indoor air pollutants at a more manageable level, especially when used in conjunction with an air purifier.
If you or a member of your family suffers from respiratory problems, the presence of bedbugs can worsen these conditions. Bed bugs shed their outer skins, or casings, as they grow. These casings, along with the bed bugs’ feces, can dry out and become airborne. Inhaling the cast-off material from bed bugs can aggravate asthma and other respiratory ailments.
Some molds are also capable of infecting the respiratory system. However, infection generally occurs in immunocompromised individuals. The most common cause of lung infection is Aspergillus fumigatus. Aspergillus fumigatus is a concern in hospital environment since it can easily infect patients.
Apart from mold secondhand smoke is known to cause numerous health issues, respiratory problems and can even lead to death. The smell of smoke is absorbed by furniture, carpet and the walls in your home, so even after the cigarette is gone, the smell lingers, causing people to sneeze and eyes to water.
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