Toxic Mold May Have Killed Star

from: http://m.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/brittany-murphy-death-mold-275478

The actress' mother, Sharon Murphy, has filed a lawsuit against the attorneys that represented her in a suit against the builders of the home where Murphy died.

The mother of Brittany Murphy has filed a lawsuit against the attorneys that represented her in a suit against the builders of the home where the actress died, claiming the lawyers never told her about a possible wrongful death suit due to mold in the house.

The suit by Sharon Murphy in Los Angeles Superior Court comes nearly two years after the Dec. 20, 2009 death of Brittany Murphy, which was followed by the May 2010 death of Brittany's husband Simon Monjack.

Sharon Murphy apparently did not become convinced that toxic mold was a cause in the death of her daughter and son-in-law until this past summer, when she was in the process of selling the house in the Hollywood Hills.

In fact, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that while the issue of toxic mold had come up previously, Sharon Murphy did not believe at the time her 32-year-old daughter or 39-year-old son-in-law died that mold was a cause of death.

According to Ed Winter, assistant chief coroner of Los Angeles County, the coroner's office specifically looked for evidence of mold during the autopsies of both Murphy and Monjack and did not find any.

Winter told THR on Monday that at the time of Monjack’s death, Sharon Murphy told him she did not believe mold was the cause and she would not permit an inspection of the house by the L.A. health department as the coroner had requested.

This all took place during a period when Sharon Murphy was understandably upset about what had happened to her daughter and son-in-law. In a complaint filed Monday, Sharon Murphy charges the firm of Steiner & Libo with legal malpractice, breach of contract and breach of fiduciary duty for not properly informing her that in January 2011 -- when she accepted the final settlement of that earlier lawsuit -- she was giving up her right to sue for the wrongful death of her daughter due to the presence of mold in the 13-year-old, 8,000-square-foot-home.

The coroner had found that pneumonia was one of the causes of their deaths. The suit says that the law firm that was first hired in early 2009 “should have known that Brittany and Simon had died and that their deaths were the result of complications from conditions associated with the subject property,“ the suit alleges. The law firm “had a duty to advise and/or inform (Sharon Murphy) that she may have had a wrongful death claim.” Sharon and Brittany Murphy had purchased the five-bedroom home from singer Britney Spears in June 2003 for $3.85 million.

Spears for a time lived there with Justin Timberlake until their relationship ended. On Monday, attorneys Bob M. Cohen and Michael Marzban, who represent Sharon Murphy, declined to comment on the litigation. A call to David Libo of the Steiner & Libo firm was not returned. Sharon Murphy had been very close with her daughter, who became a TV and movie star as a teenager, and starred in such movies as Clueless, 8 Mile and Just Married. After Brittany married Monjack in 2007, the three resided in the big house together. Monjack remained in the house with Sharon Murphy after his wife’s sudden death from what the coroner ruled was pneumonia, anemia and an excess of prescription drugs.

Mojack’s death five months later was ruled to have been caused by pneumonia and anemia. The suit against the builder and others involved in the construction and later re-construction of the house had been filed in 2006 in the name of Brittany Murphy’s corporation, The Nina Bow Trust. In early 2009, apparently at the suggestion of Monjack, they had changed lawyers, hiring the firm of Steiner & Libo.

The attorney who primarily represented them was David Libo. Sometime shortly before Monjack’s sudden death, an out of court settlement was reached in the suit with the builder and various construction entities. That suit was finalized and a check for $600,000 was delivered to Sharon Murphy in January 2010, according to attorney Michael T. Montgomery, who represented Elliott Horitch, the original builder of the house. Also in January 2010, TMZ reported that Sharon Murphy was facing a possible foreclosure on the property.

After negotiations, there was no foreclosure action. In July, the property was sold for $2.7 million, according to a report filed with Los Angeles County. In the final weeks she owned the house, Sharon Murphy moved to a hotel because of her concern about the mold problem. She has since moved to another residence.

Email: Alex.Benblock@thr.com Twitter: @ABBlock

Toxic Mold: The Effects On Your Cat

from: http://www.catchannel.com/news/toxic-mold-can-affect-pets.aspx

After two Himalayan cats died from toxic mold poisoning, a veterinarian urges pet owners in humid and flood-damaged areas to check their homes for toxic black mold.

Toxic mold may be a new health concern for pet owners, according to a report published in the Sept. 1 issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, which outlines what is believed to be the first documented case of toxic black mold poisoning in pets.

Douglas Mader, DVM, of Marathon Veterinary Hospital in Marathon, Fla., and co-author of the study, was performing routine dental procedures on two healthy, indoor Himalayan cats—examinations conducted prior to the dental cleanings showed no indications of illness—when he noticed frothy blood within the endotracheal tubes used to supply anesthesia to the two cat siblings.

Dr. Mader immediately stopped the procedures. However, one cat died the following day and the other about two weeks later. “The circumstances of these cases are just not heard of,” Mader said. “Anesthesia doesn’t cause pulmonary hemorrhage.”

Blood collected prior to the cats’ death was tested and showed the presence of the toxin produced by Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as toxic black mold, which can cause respiratory-related health problems, pulmonary hemorrhage and death in people, Mader said.

Mader suspected the mold because the cats lived in an area that had been devastated by hurricane and flooding. After questioning the pet owners, Mader found out that their home had sustained water damage during a hurricane in October 2005, seven months prior to the development of pulmonary hemorrhage. Mader asked the pet owners to check their home for mold.

“Sure enough, they had very severe mold contamination in their walls,” he said. The walls have since been gutted and replaced. The pet owners’ other two pets, another cat and a dog, appeared fine, but Mader says that if they had undergone the same procedure it is possible that they may have experienced the same thing as the two cats that died.

Although toxic black mold poisoning in pets has never been documented before, Mader said he suspects that this is not the first case. It’s possible that the symptoms have been there, which can range from mild respiratory disease to pulmonary trauma, but were attributed to other things, he said.

There’s also no commercial test available, he added. Mader said that veterinarians should ask pet owners about mold, especially those in high-risk environments. “I think veterinarians living in an area where there is high humidity or previous exposure to flood or water damage need to put this on their list of what we call history questions,” he said.

“When they check an animal in and do any kind of preoperative physical examination, they need to include, ‘Are you aware of any exposure to mold in your house?’” However, pet owners also need to share this information with their veterinarians, Mader said.

“I think the most important thing is for people to be aware of things in their environment that could potentially impact the health of animals,” he said. “They need to let their veterinarian know.” Mader and co-author Dorr Dearborn, Ph.D., MD, of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, plan to look into validating a test for toxic mold that can be used for commercial laboratories. --

Marissa Heflin, Associate News Editor for CatChannel

Mold... The Uninvited Visitor

from: http://massapequa.patch.com/articles/an-unwanted-visitormold

By now you hopefully have cleaned up from the path of destruction that Hurricaine Irene left behind as she swept up the eastern seaboard.

The trees and debris have been removed but if you had roof damage or water in your basement you may be harboring a hidden health hazard, mold. Mold problems are common after flooding because the humidity provides the perfect medium for mold spores to grow and multiply. It usually requires several days or weeks to fully dry out a house after a water leak or flood.

Odors may be the first or only sign of a potential mold problem since mold grows in places that it is not often visible such as behind the walls or under the carpet. The worst type of mold to grow in a home is toxic black mold which can irritate the mucus membranes and central nervous system leading to symptoms of breathing difficulties, headaches, nausea, skin rashes, decreased attention span, nosebleeds, difficulty in concentration and dizziness.

At high levels the spores of black mold can damage the internal organs of an infant with internal bleeding leading to death. This can also happen in patients who are immunocompromised. If you find black mold thoroughly clean all hard surfaces that can be reached with a solution of one cup of bleach to one gallon of water. Never mix the bleach with ammonia or other cleaning solutions that can create toxic fumes.

Open all windows and doors to provide fresh air. Wear non-porous gloves protective eye wear and a face mask. If the area to be cleaned is more than 10 feet, get professional help. Absorbent or porous materials like ceiling tiles, drywall, and carpet may have to be thrown away if they become moldy.

Unless the mold is completely removed the spores will continue to grow and make you sick. You can reduce mold in your home by eliminating sources of dampness in your basement such as pipe leaks or groundwater seepage. Use a dehumidifier in any area of your home that smells musty or damp and keep your humidity levels below 50%.

Clean the collection coils and bucket regularly. Change filters on your air conditioner and furnaces regularly and have your heating ducts inspected and cleaned. Make sure all bathrooms are properly vented. Promote groundwater drainage away from your house by removing leaves and vegetation from around the foundation and clean out your gutters. If you suspect mold growth in your home and you can’t locate it get professional help from a licensed mold inspector to find your hidden intruder.

Mold Is Toxic: Get It Cleaned Up Now!

from: http://mold.wordwd.com/2011/07/13/mold-its-toxic-get-it-cleaned-up-immediately/

If you are reading this article, chances are that you are looking for a mold removal service to carry out the cleanup in your home.

Mold is a universal problem that can have severe effects on the health of human beings who live in a house that is affected with this toxic substance. It is advised that the affected area be cleaned up and restored immediately after it is detected as widespread mold can result in several health risks, some of which are mentioned below.

Dangers posed by mold

Asthma attacks –
Some people are extremely allergic to mold and it can trigger bad asthma attacks or make existing cases of asthma much worse in a patient.

Other allergic reactions –
Improper mold cleanup can result in spreading of Spores across the house that can lead to allergic reactions such as runny nose, rashes, sneezing and red eyes.

Irritation –
Many patients have reported irritations in the eyes, nose and throat regions that has been directly linked to mold.

Infections –
Mold also has the ability to cause athlete’s foot and other topical infections.

Serious risks –
In extremely bad cases, mold even has the ability to cause serious health problems such as pneumonia and other diseases that will affect the lungs.

Mold is a very difficult problem to tackle as it thrives in conditions that are also perfectly suitable for humans to live. This fungus essentially thrives by feeding on organic matter such as cardboard, wood or other natural construction materials that are found in the house.

Moisture is also another very important ingredient for the growth of mold and a professional fire and water restoration contractor will have to address the mold cleanup in such a way that the water source creating the moisture is stopped.

It is estimated that there are over 100k varieties of mold and not every one of them will be visible to the naked eye. Some will leave an ugly brown, black or green stain on your walls or ceilings while some will spread without any visual clues.

Only a professional mold removal company will be able to assess the true damage created by mold in your house. A professional mold removal company will carry out the following steps in their mold cleanup process that will eliminate mold from your house.

Eliminate the moisture problem –
As said earlier, mold damage removal will begin with the elimination of the moisture source. Cleaning up mold without first eliminating the moisture source will result in the mold coming back in most cases.
Commercial mold damage removal companies will use dehumidifiers and blowers to eliminate the moisture source.

Cleaning in a contained area –
It is very important for one to use proper protective clothing while cleaning out mold. A professional mold removal contractor will seal off or contain the room that needs to be cleaned and one would not have to worry about the mold spreading to other parts of the house during the mold cleanup process.

Cleaning and removing the mold –
Various materials will need various types of cleaning methods. The cleaning method will also vary depending on the type of the mold that needs to be cleaned out and it is best that you leave the job to a professional mold damage removal company that will do the best job for your house.

Black Mold In Pregnancy: How Harmful Is It?

from: http://experts.merchantcircle.com/articles/Effects-of-Black-Mold-and-Pregnanc...

Black mold can be present on any surface affected by water damage, or exposed to excessive moisture. It may cause problems in healthy adults, but particularly harmful to women who are pregnant.

Black mold can produce mycotoxins that may cause health issues in the expectant mother and unborn baby. Women who are pregnant should avoid being exposed to black mold.

Stachybotrys chartarum, also referred to as black mold or toxic mold, can cause negative effects in both expectant mom and fetus. This particular mold produces harmful toxins to humans.

Mold can be found in the air and any surface. It is common in areas that have high humidity levels, condensation and water damage due to flooding or leaking pipes.

The effects of mold on the mother and unborn child will vary depending upon the length of exposure and the amount of mold spores inhaled.

Pregnant women exposed to mold may experience upper respiratory infections and wheezing. Women who have asthma may have an increase with asthma-related symptoms. Skin or eye irritation and nasal stuffiness may also occur.

In severe cases of exposure, women may experience difficulty breathing and have a fever. Studies have not conclusively proven black mold effects on a fetus, however, there is a correlation between toxic mold exposure and an increased risk of miscarriage.

Animal studies have shown a disruption of fetal development when subjected to toxic mold while in the womb.

There is also speculation that black mold exposure in a fetus or newborn can be linked to SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), and a child in the womb exposed to black mold may also develop asthma or allergies later in life.

Women who suspect they are being contaminated with toxic or black mold should contact a certified mold inspector to evaluate the conditions. If samples prove that Stachybotrys chartarum, or black mold, is present in the home or office she should evacuate until the house has been disinfected properly and mold is no longer a threat.

Can You Sue Your Landlord For Mold? This Family Did

from: http://www.removing-mold.com/2011/06/weston-family-sues-landlord-for-neglecti...

Weston, Florida Weston family sues landlord for neglect.

This family continues to be residing in a really nice house in a very prestigious neighborhood in Weston, Florida more than 9 months.

The child, 4 yrs . old, started getting sick, coughing a great deal and when the child was taken up to a medical facility, they identified the kid continues to be slowly intoxicating with mold.

His bedroom’s closed had a broken pipe and the parents didn’t find early enough. Mold Inspection Weston A worried parent asked the owner to care for the issue.

The landlord sent a handyman to take care of the condition, nevertheless the handyman only cleaned the walls having a bleach product. The little one never improved and when the mother and father inspected the closet, found out the mold grew back.

Amazingly, the owner will not fix the issue as well as the tenants made a decision to move out of the exact property, smashing the lease. Before they moved out, they hired a local company, Blue Star, to complete an inspection and also the findings were really bad.

The landlord refused to come back the escrow deposit and enough was enough using this people. Black Mold Removal Miami Three days later case was filed about the landlord for neglect. The landlord as well as the Florida family settled outside of court.

Top Reasons To Use A Mold Detection Dog

from: http://www.mold-dog.com/top7.htm

1) Less Expensive.
Mold Dogs generate quicker and more accurate results, which leads to lower remediation costs for homeowners and insurers. For schools, hotels, commercial and government buildings, cost savings can be quite substantial.

2) Cutting-Edge Technology.
The "Nose" is cutting-edge technology and the latest trend in the home inspection industry. It's the only inspection tool that can detect and pinpoint sources of mold - critical information for lowering costs.

3) Proven and Trusted.
“Man’s best friend” has been used for years by military and law enforcement agencies to detect bombs and drugs, among other things. In Europe, dogs have been used to detect mold for over 20 years.

4)Dogs are Honest.
Dogs are trained to work for food and love...and NOT for profits.

5) Greater Peace of Mind.
Research supports that if the dog finds mold, there's a high statistical probability you should investigate further. If the dog doesn't find mold, you can know with greater certainty that your home, office or school is safe from mold.

6) Hard Workers.
In Germany, government authorities have found that a typical office building search of approximately 200 rooms can take one dog eight hours to complete.

7) Effective Problem Solvers.
For REALTORS® concerned about escrow timelines, Mold Dogs can quickly and more accurately inspect a home, which gives both parties the feedback they need to quickly and effectively resolve issues.

Toxic Mold in the Workplace

There are dangers in any workplace environment. Typically, an individual is aware of the particular hazards that one is likely to encounter in relation to his or her own profession. But there are some threats to worker safety for which it is impossible to prepare. The situation is made more difficult by the fact that some of these dangers may be unseen. For example, toxic mold can thrive in the structure where a person works, leading to dangerous exposure that can have striking adverse health effects. Two types of indoor mold that are especially harmful are Memnoniella and Stachybotrys. When inhaled, an unsuspecting worker may face life-threatening illness. If you have suffered from toxic mold exposure in the workplace, a workers’ compensation claim can help to ensure that your medical needs are met and that the costs for treatment are not borne by you. Contact the Fayetteville workers’ compensation lawyers of Scudder & Hedrick, PLLC, at 910-488-1600 to discuss your situation with a compassionate and committed legal representative. Health Hazards of Mold Identifying toxic mold is difficult because many of the minor symptoms are often ignored by sufferers. Overtime, the effects of prolonged exposure can prove to be far severer and it may be too late to avoid catastrophic health crises. The following are representative of the consequences of toxic mold exposure: Depression Headaches Dizziness Lung Disease Brain Damage Chronic Fatigue Seeking medical treatment when any of these symptoms appears can help to identify the problem before the situation turns tragic. Contact Us If you have been made ill by workplace exposure to toxic, or “black,” mold, then it is important that you are aware of your legal rights regarding workers’ compensation benefits. Contact the Fayetteville workers’ compensation lawyers of Scudder & Hedrick, PLLC, at 910-488-1600 right away for assistance with your claim.

Mold Between Walls

by: By Josienita Borlongan, eHow Contributor from: http://www.ehow.co.uk/m/info_8501487_leaking-caused-mold-between-walls.html

Considered vital elements of an ecosystem, molds are natural occurrences that help in decomposing organic materials such as plants and animals. However, molds can cause allergies if left uncontrolled.

Molds, at their toxic levels, may have long-term and critical effects to indoor air quality and may affect one's health, especially the respiratory and immunity systems. Leaking pipes are one of the leading causes of molds that appear between walls.

Characteristics of Molds
Molds multiply through tiny spores. They float in the air and, once they find a moist or damp place, they will thrive and multiply by digesting any organic material.

Molds become toxic in areas where moisture and humidity are unusually high. These molds grow where there's poor air movement or ventilation.

These toxic molds, more commonly known as black molds or Stachybotrys chartarum, are greenish and slimy in appearance. They produce mycotoxins that can cause severe lung and skin disorders.

Leaking Pipes and Molds
Leaking pipes do not only lead to renovation or maintenance problems, but they can also cause toxic mold occurrences.

Damaged water pipes and pipe leaks result in extreme levels of humidity. Before you know it, molds are silently invading your home through unchecked pipe leaks. Wall crevices easily absorb and retain water leaks from pipes over time. Molds will settle in these areas where they'll multiply and produce uncontrollably.

Hazardous Effects of Toxic Molds in the Walls Caused by Leaking Pipes

Toxic molds in the walls produce tiny allergens that accumulate and cause harmful as well as fatal health conditions. If left uncontrolled, toxic black mold can be poisonous.

Toxic black mold poisoning is often mistaken for cold or flu. These tiny particles invade the immune and respiratory systems and often show symptoms such as nasal or sinus congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes or skin, dizziness, headache, nose bleed, fungal infection and difficulty in concentrating.

Toxic molds in the walls can also lead to asthma, which results from severe allergies to molds that can lead to the swelling of the lungs. Patients suffering from asthma find breathing very difficult.

Preventive Measures
Perform a thorough inspection of potential breeding grounds. Walls affected by leaking pipes top the list of places to look into. Molds usually leave signs where they thrive. Tell-tale signs include wall discoloration or cracked, peeling or uneven paint.

Molds thrive where humidity is high. They definitely grow inside damp wall cavities and spaces between walls and floor baseboards. Once you've identified the places, a thorough cleanup is in order.

The Department of Energy recommends the use of filtered High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuum to eliminate the presence of these tiny contaminants. In addition, molds often do not thrive in areas with good air circulation.

Moving furniture away from walls will allow more air circulation and less presence of moisture. Use of dehumidifiers and exhaust fans can also help decrease humidity and reduce indoor air moisture levels.

Defining Toxic Mold Spores

by: Chris Anzalone, eHow Contributor

Toxic mold is a concern for homeowners and anyone who must work or spend time in an environment with mold spores.

Though there are more than 400,000 types of mold, the majority are not toxic. "Toxic mold" refers to a very specific type of spore.

Defining Toxic
No mold spore is toxic, in and of itself. Certain molds, such as Stachybotrys chartarum and Aspergillus flavus, are classified as toxigenic. A toxic substance consists of toxins, whereas a toxigenic substance such as certain molds is non-toxic, but has the ability to release airborne toxins. Toxigenic molds release toxins known as mycotoxins.

Determining Toxicity
Only a mold expert can determine the exact mold type, and therefore determine whether or not the mold produces mycotoxins. The symptoms associated with toxigenic mold exposure match the symptoms produced by other molds, such as sinus infection, hypersensitivity pneumonitis (an inflammation of the lungs), respiratory infection, coughing and wheezing.

As a result, you cannot determine the toxicity by symptoms alone, nor can you determine toxicity by appearance. For example, Stachybotrys, a toxigenic mold, has the same color and consistency of Cladosporium, which is a non-toxigenic mold.

Contact a mold expert to determine toxicity. Cancer Risk Cancer risk sets toxigenic molds apart from non-toxigenic molds. The Environmental Protection Agency warns that molds such as Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus contain a carcinogenic mycotoxin known as aflatoxin B1. Aflatoxin B1 can contribute to the growth of liver cancer.

For this reason, you should treat all molds as a potential hazard, since you cannot determine toxicity by observation alone. Non-toxigenic molds can cause symptoms, but are seldom life-threatening.

Other Mold Types Every household mold falls into one of three categories. The toxigenic molds comprise one category, but the other two categories are allergenic and pathogenic molds. A pathogenic mold can cause illness and infection.

However, it contains no mycotoxins and is not believed to contribute to cancer growth. An allergenic mold affects only people with allergies and potentially people with respiratory sensitivities such as asthma.

from:http://www.ehow.com/m/info_8354571_toxic-mold-spores.html

Tips To Help With Spring Mold Allergies

from: http://www.allergy-details.com/mold-allergy-c/mold-allergy-peak-spring/

Mold allergy problems increase in the spring. This can be confused with a pollen allergy, but they are quite different.

You may be suffering from both, to make matters worse. What can you do about it? Mold is around all year because it grows indoors as well as outside.

If you live far enough north to experience winter temperatures below freezing, mold allergies are usually less of a problem during those months. Mold does not grow outside when it is frozen, and the drier air inside from heating reduced mold growth in your house as well. Outside is a a different matter.

As temperatures increase, the mold begins to wake up. I’ve seen mold growing on top of snow as it melts, and under the snow, so that its already growing on the grass even before you can see the grass. All of this aggravates your mold allergy

Last year’s leaf litter is this spring’s mold bed. There is no getting away from it. Allergy shots may help with your mold allergy. See your allergist about this in the winter so that you’re already taking the shots before the spring mold season.

Open the windows for fresh air in the evening when temperatures are lower and the mold less active, then close them during the day. This is the opposite of what you should do in the summer in some cases.

Make sure the fresh air intake damper for forced air heating is turned off during the spring. Do open it during the summer and winter. Reduce your humidifier setting to maintain a drier atmosphere inside. This discourages mold growth in your home.

Keeping your house a bit warmer in the spring may also help. Spring can be a bad time for mold allergies, so do your best to avoid mold problems

Mold Treatment Centers of America gives hope to Toxic Mold Sufferers

from: http://www.prlog.org/11450869-mold-treatment-centers-of-america-gives-hope-to...

At the Mold Treatment Centers Of America we know that Mold Sickness is real. We understand that the right medical help for Mold Sickness is difficult to find, and that's why we're here.

The physicians at the Mold Treatment Centers specialize in the diagnosis of Mold Sickness, mold related diseases, and the adverse health conditions created by mold exposure.

Invasive fungal infections are serious and can be life threatening. This is why early diagnosis and treatment are a must. There are an estimated 20 Million people in the U.S. who are now the victims "Mold Sickness", and have been commonly misdiagnosed with other medical conditions.

An estimated 48 million Americans unknowingly suffer from Chronic Fungal Sinusitis, and another estimated 33 million suffer common misdiagnosis of what the medical community calls “Mystery Illnesses”. Below find the most common misdiagnosis for mold exposure.

Fibromyalgia Lupus Asthma Emphysema COPD SIDS Chronic Bronchitis Chronic Sinusitis Chronic Ear Infections Arthritis Fatigue Syndrome Sexual Dysfunction "ED" and Prostate Associated Disease Neurological and Nervous Disorders

Unfortunately, the list goes on and on. Healthy People Can Become Infected by Mold and Fungal Contaminates The old school of medicine has taught that, "Only the elderly, infants, and the immunocompromised can get infections from mold", this is completely false.

New data shows that healthy people exposed to mold contaminated environments whether at home, work, or school may develop infections from being exposed to mold. · “
· “Cryptococcus Gattii”, infects healthy human beings and has a mortality rate of 25% of persons infected.

“Morgellons”, has been labeled by the CDC as an unexplained and debilitating condition that has emerged as a public health concern.

New data reveals that some persons are at higher risk of getting fungal infections from being exposed to mold. In certain instances exposure to mold for those people has been documented to cause fatalities Persons being more susceptible to infections from Mold and with higher risk factors are as follows:
PRLog (Press Release) – Apr 21, 2011 – Finding the Right Help is Just a Phone Call Away
(678) 943 2111
http://www.moldtc.com

The Mold Treatment Centers Of America

At the Mold Treatment Centers Of America we know that Mold Sickness is real.
We understand that the right medical help for Mold Sickness is difficult to find, and that's why we're here.

The physicians at the Mold Treatment Centers specialize in the diagnosis of Mold Sickness, mold related diseases, and the adverse health conditions created by mold exposure. Invasive fungal infections are serious and can be life threatening. This is why early diagnosis and treatment are a must.
There are an estimated 20 Million people in the U.S. who are now the victims "Mold Sickness", and have been commonly misdiagnosed with other medical conditions. An estimated 48 million Americans unknowingly suffer from Chronic Fungal Sinusitis, and another estimated 33 million suffer common misdiagnosis of what the medical community calls “Mystery Illnesses”. Below find the most common misdiagnosis for mold exposure.

Fibromyalgia
Lupus
Asthma
Emphysema
COPD
SIDS
Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic Ear Infections
Arthritis
Fatigue Syndrome
Sexual Dysfunction "ED" and Prostate Associated Disease
Neurological and Nervous Disorders

Unfortunately, the list goes on and on.
Healthy People Can Become Infected by Mold and Fungal Contaminates

The old school of medicine has taught that, "Only the elderly, infants, and the immunocompromised can get infections from mold", this is completely false. New data shows that healthy people exposed to mold contaminated environments whether at home, work, or school may develop infections from being exposed to mold.

· “Cryptococcus Gattii”, infects healthy human beings and has a mortality rate of 25% of persons infected.

· “Morgellons”, has been labeled by the CDC as an unexplained and debilitating condition that has emerged as a public health concern.

New data reveals that some persons are at higher risk of getting fungal infections from being exposed to mold. In certain instances exposure to mold for those people has been documented to cause fatalities

Persons being more susceptible to infections from Mold and with higher risk factors are as follows:

Persons with AIDS and HIV

Organ Transplant Recipients

Cancer Treatment Patients (chronic lymphatic leukemia, Hodgkin's disease, chronic myelogenous leukemia, myeloma, lymphosarcoma, acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children, those undergoing Chemotherapy, and others)

Persons with Sarcoidosis

Persons undergoing Corticosteroid Therapy

Persons with Diabetes Mellitus

Those with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or lung cancer

Alcoholics

People with Cirrhosis

Those with rheumatoid arthritis,systemic lupus erythematous, pregnancy, and splenectomy

Persons under the age of 18

Persons over the age of 58

Through advanced testing and diagnostic procedures we can accurately pinpoint and assess the harmful effects that mold has had on your body, internal organs, and the extent of those damages.

Correct diagnostics is the first step on your road to recovery, risk reduction, and getting the right treatment.

Mold Sickness can effect everyone! If you have/are suffering from mold exposure. Let us find the Medical, Legal and Environmental help you need (770) 991 6653

Asthma Caused by Mold

I had a cough for months, trouble catching my breath when running for the train, I thought it was just a really bad virus until a friend at work mentioned it might be the mold that was making me cough.

Finally I went to Stanford Emergency and was diagnosed with Adult Asthma, and possibly Pertussis (whooping cough). I’ll write more on Asthma later, I actually just had a minor operation today for a Uterine Polyp removal at Stanford Medical Center. Waking up from a nap I was inspired to write more on my blog, I had the most amazing service and what a smart pleasant staff. I even had a nurse walk me from the shuttle to where I needed to check in for surgery. I’ll be starting a blog on women’s health too!

Here is a link to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it has links to Asthma Facts, What Triggers Asthma and how to control it. http://www.cdc.gov/asthma/ I will be adding more information and links! Thanks!

Bleeding Lungs And Other Effects Of Black Mold

from:  http://www.wellarticles.info/a-look-at-some-of-the-health-issues-caused-by-bl...

Black mold product irritating odour and it is a feature common to most of the mould. If you are a sensitive person, this scent may act as an allergen.

This irritating odour could worsen or develop allergies and disease that you may not have known before. Therefore, if you think that your experience could be related to the infestation of mold, you should discuss your concerns with your doctor.

Apart from the just causing allergies, it also produces a toxic substance which affects the nervous system and this is why it must be treated as soon as possible.

Black mold and mold spores can trigger allergic reactions. These are the most common cause health issues by them. If you are sensitive or your immune system is weak, you will discover immediately; these allergies or on the other hand, they could develop some time after the first exhibition.

The allergic reaction usually depends on is how severe black mold growth. It produces toxins known as mycotoxins, which can cause irritation of the skin, eyes and the ways of the air in most individuals, even if you have not any allergies.

People with chronic lung disease may suffer serious respiratory infections due to toxic mold. Some people may also face serious reactions to this toxic odor, which may include fever and difficulty breathing.

These risks also depend on the State of health of the person affected at the time of exposure and not is not only limited to the extent of its growth. Since the response of mold exposure varies from one individual to another, it is quite impossible to assess the severity of the associated health risks of black mold infestation.

Other symptoms caused by toxins from black mold: discomfort in breathing, headache, nausea, cough, red eyes, hives on skin and loss of memory development and skin rash. In some cases, persons of experience bleeding in the lungs, lethargy, lack of concentration, asthma, irregularity of the blood pressure, damaged digestive and respiratory system, pain in the liver and other internal organs, infections of the urinary tract and the problems of urination etc.

Severe or prolonged exposure to them may even affect infertility in some patients. Therefore, it is preferable to take preventive measures and stop the growth of black mold in the first place.

If you suspect mold infestation, you should quickly consult a help. If you are interested to learn more about black mold, feel free to visit our Web site at the http://www.yourblackmoldguide.com

Is Toxic Mold Killing Infants?

(I-Newswire) Tamarac, Florida, March 29, 2011 -

The evidence of toxic black mold infestation in most military housing is strong, and home owners were taking actions to this.

Although the death of another infant in the community is not yet confirmed whether it is due to black mold, owners were concern about the health effects of these toxic molds. CEO of Green Cleaning Products is welcoming everyone who has mold problems to get a copy of their free mold course.

Along with the mold course is a free trial of natural cleaning products, which are 100% organic that are very safe and effective to humans especially babies and elders.

What causes the death of the babies? =====================
"Another death of an infant living in Military housing was reported. This is not the first time that it happens. The number of babies death have doubled recently. Though studies are still going on concerning the death of another baby, many individuals speculated it is caused by toxic black mold, since evidences shows black mold present in the area."

"Mold removal company is giving out free mold removal manuscript for military home owners so they can take action to their black mold problem. In addition, green cleaning products manufacturers are also giving out discounted price of mold removal products.

These products are 100% safe for humans, which is very suitable for home owners with infants at home."

"Our hearts go out to yet another military family that has had another infant die while living in military housing. Are the possible causes correctly being studied? What are the credentials of the people involved in previously studying this problem? How reliable are the tests that are being done? What has been adequately ruled out and why have they been eliminated?"

"Could it be toxic mold causing the deaths of these infants? If it is toxic mold that may be the culprit, what have they found to be present in the residences of these infants? Toxid mold targets our neurological system and has been known to have an affect on our immune system.

There is a great deal of information on toxic mold and it has been shown that there are specific types of mold that are associated with affecting our health. Does that mean that mold that has formed in a wet closet and behind wall paper, the type of mold that could sicken these infants? Have they been able to define how to adequately remove toxic mold?

When we hear the word mold, we associated it as a by product of a wet, musty environment that is harboring dangerous spores that we can breathe into our lungs. Is there a permissible level of toxic mold that may not make us sick?" ============================================================== Read more below: http://www.mold-removal.biz/infant-died-due-suspected-black-mold.htm ============================================================== Whether it is due to black mold or something else, the life of every human is precious. If you have problems with mold infestation, always use non-toxic chemicals like Green Cleaning Products.

One Family's Mouldy Nightmare

We didn't have money for legal fees; if you don't have money, you can't recover," she said. "The only person willing to help us was the president (of the United States).

Mold Remediation: The Process Explained

From: http://www.internettollfree.com/articles/mold-remediation-the-process-explained/

Finding out that fungus and spores are growing in the darkest, dampest places in your home is never the best news to receive. The worst thing you can do upon discovering that it’s become a problem is to then ignore it.

Your next step should be mold remediation and removal, done through a professional company in most instances. People may tell you that the hullabaloo about toxic mold is much ado about nothing, and while it is perhaps true that the variety in your home is more than likely harmless to your family, it could cause allergic reactions and create sickness even if it is not the toxic black form of the spores.

The best–and safest–route to take is immediate removal. If mold remediation is not your specialty — and it probably is not — then hiring a reputable company should be your first step. You should be able to find at least one such company no matter where you live, willing to put their expertise and knowledge to work removing and stamping out the mold in your home.

Check their references and do a search with your local Better Business Bureau to see if the company has any complaints against them. If all seems well, hire them and proceed to wage war against the spores growing in your bathroom, bedroom, basement, or wherever else they decided to take hold.

When the mold remediation team arrives, they will address the problem they were hired to do, but that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook quite yet. The growth began in your home for a reason, and the professional team of experts will likely be able to tell you what that reason is.

From there, it will be your job to see that the problem is fixed, thus decreasing the chances for a new outbreak in the future. In many cases, this will mean removing moisture and water from the home.

Whether it arrived there through flooding, open windows, or another means, it is important to fix the problem as soon as possible to prevent future issues. You can avoid the need for mold remediation in many cases by keeping a dry, well lit home.

The spores thrive in a dark, wet environment, as do many other fungi and problems that you probably don’t want to have to deal with. If moisture in your home is a problem, consider running the air conditioner at a lower temperature and purchasing a dehumidifier to run in the rooms most affected.

When looking for a specialist in mold remediation Salt Lake residents should take the time to select a qualified individual to deal with this complicated task. For more helpful tips on this subject, go to http://www.waterdamagespecialistsut.com.

Essential Oils To Neutralize Mold?

I
love Young Living's essential oils and si I was very interested to find this article...
Found it here: http://blog.youngliving.com/product/?tag=black-mold

Over the past three months I’ve been testing Young Living’s TheraPro® diffuser for use in conjunction with our protocol for eliminating toxic mold.

The tests were conducted in three different environments: a hospital; a closed, mold-infested 9,000-square-foot health club; and a private residence. I am pleased to report that our tests of the TheraPro diffuser compared favorably with the 6-watt cold-air diffusers we’ve previously been using.

Features that make the TheraPro Diffuser easier to use: Eliminates the tubing and glass nebulizer of the other diffusers tested Has built-in on-and-off timers Holds a full 15 ml bottle of oil Has to be filled less often

NOTICE: In order to get the best results using the TheraPro Diffuser for eliminating mold, you need to know the following: Because the TheraPro utilizes a different mechanism for atomizing essential oils, there are differences in the way the oils are delivered over time.

The TheraPro starts off at a higher rate of delivery, which decreases as the oil level in the bottle drops. Because of this the bottle has to be refilled every 10 to 12 hours in order to be effective.

This is important because at the declining rate—after 10 to 12 hours—the amount of oil being diffused is insufficient to maintain the concentration needed to kill mold. So to use the TheraPro Diffuser for mold, you will need to have at least two 15 ml bottles of Thieves® essential oil blend on hand to ensure that you can diffuse at the necessary rate for at least 24 hours.

When used in this manner, in conjunction with the Close Protocol*, laboratory analyses showed results comparable to the results we’re used to getting using the 6-watt direct-pressure cold-air diffusers. I can, therefore, whole-heartedly recommend the TheraPro Diffuser for use in eliminating mold problems, provided it is used as described above.

A more detailed report of the tests will be made available in the near future. Dr. Ed Close *The Close Protocol is outlined in the book “Nature’s Mold Rx: The Non-Toxic Solution to Toxic Mold.”

Ways To Prevent Mold From Growing In Your House

from: http://www.saurobot.com/ways-to-prevent-mold-from-growing-in-your-house.html

Mold is one of the biggest enemies to your home and to your health. You have to keep your family safe from this because it can cause serious problems.

Mold can grow within 48 hours after a flood or lots of water got spilled on the floor. That is why it is very important to keep your house dry and to clean up water fast when it is spilled. If it comes from a flood, you have to wait until the water is out and the house is checked.

Mold can cause health problems, such as breathing problems, rashes, illnesses, diseases, immune disorders, nausea, pathogenic diseases, fatigue, headaches, and much more.

If you have a lot of headaches, get your house checked for mold because that can be a sign of toxic mold in your house. You need to keep your house dry, and you can have a dehumidifier in your house to keep the moisture out and the mold as well.

If you have a basement, keep that area dry because mold likes to grow down there due to it having dark areas, and moisture likes so set in down there. If you don’t keep your house dry, mold can appear and it can grow on cement, bricks, wood, drywall, carpets, and in the ceiling.

Mold can get anywhere it wants to, and it can or will affect your family’s health in time or just like that. You can kill mold with bleach, which is good to scrub it in to kill all of it and clean the area that the mold was growing on. Make sure there are no spaces under the door from water to get under it because that can cause mold to grow under the carpet and under or on the floor.

Make sure the roof is fixed so no water can drip through it because that can get on anything on your house and cause mold to grow on it. Check all pipes for cracks or to see if the seal around the pipes are good.

Make sure that all the appliances are put in right and the dryer has a hose on it because this will prevent mold growth.

Don’t walk in the house with wet shoes because it will get the carpet all wet, and it will soak in the carpets fabric, which will cause mold. If you have a spill, clean it up right away and get it dry so it will not soak in the carpet or on the floor.

Don’t lay wet clothes on the floor that can cause mold to grow because the water from the wet clothes can soak in the floor or the carpet will develop mold. If water gets in the carpet, it will lock in moisture and mold will start to form on it, and you will have to remove the carpet from your house so mold will not set in.

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Toxic Mold: What Every Homeowner Should Know

From: http://www.coloradospringscorealestate.net/toxic-mold-what-every-homeowner-sh...

There are many things that you need to consider when making sure your home is the best place for your family. You want to make sure your family can live in the home without worrying about getting sick, or being injured. Because of this, toxic mold is a subject that most home owners are concerned about. If you are unsure of what this substance is, fear no more. You`ll learn what you need to know in the next few paragraphs.

It is important to accurately define the word mold. Mold is a specific type of fungi that uses spores to spread throughout the environment and reproduce. These spores then land on moist areas in their surroundings and begin to grow. The fact is, that you come in contact with molds both inside and outside your home everyday without any ill effects. They exist in the great outdoors, the buildings we work in, even in our own home. In truth, the term of toxic mold is somewhat of a misrepresentation.

The real danger comes from the mold byproducts. They are referred to as mycotoxins, and are often viewed as the real cause of the illnesses attributed to toxic mold. The mycotoxins from the mold have been attributed to a rise in asthma attacks, headaches, sinus problems, and other health concerns, even in normally healthy people. It should be recalled that this material is a natural result of the life of the mold.

In order to remove the threat of mycotoxins, you must remove the mold, and the source of moisture that has allowed it to grow in your home. Toxic mold grows most easily in moist and poorly ventilated areas of your home.

Mold has been known to be made more prevalent by such things as a bathroom with inadequate ventilation, flooding, or leaking water pipes. The laundry dryer is also a common place to find mold. In general terms, if moisture exists in a certain place, you will probably witness mold. Once the mold has been removed by a professional, it is important for you as a homeowner to do your part to discourage future mold growth.

The easiest way to do this is to make sure all the sources of moisture are removed. If you have rooms that always seem humid, consider putting in a dehumidifier. Consider removing carpeting in rooms that always seem damp. Another option is to finish the crawlspace, or place a piece of plastic over top of the dirt, and making sure ventilation is good. Insulating your pipes are also a good idea to prevent condensation on them.

The toxic mold won`t stand a chance in your home if you do these things.

Home Inspectors and Mold

From: http://certifiedpestcontrolandsupply.com/AskWalter/?p=52

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, approximately 38% of homes suffer from mold and fungus growth due to excessive moisture.

National media attention has alerted the public to the destructive and possible toxic dangers of hidden mold spores that could affect their family’s health and their homes. EPA studies indicate that air levels of indoor pollutants may be two to three times higher than outdoor levels.

Mold, the most dangerous offender of all, often goes undetected because of its invisibility. Most people spend as much as 90% of their time indoors and are not aware of the health hazards created by these spores.

Since there has been media attention surrounding mold, prospective home buyers want a home that has been tested for mold. Mold sampling has become a standard practice during a home inspection. You should not buy a home with mold, sell a home with mold, or live in a home with mold. A mold inspector is your first line of defense. CPC inspectors are experienced and trained to detect any signs of an unhealthy environment.

Mold in The Home And How It Could Affect You

From: http://atlanta-mold-inspection.com/about-mold/health-effects-of-mold/

Since most of us spend about 90 percent of our time indoors, we want to feel our home and office are healthy and safe places to live and work. But the truth is…mold is everywhere. Thousands of different molds can contaminate indoor air quality and cause a multitude of health problems associated with mold and mold spores.

Airborne toxic mold spores spreading throughout indoor environments can affect the immune system, nervous system, liver, kidney, blood – and can even harm the brain! While some molds are more hazardous than others, all indoor molds and other fungi present potential health risks and should be addressed immediately.

Some people can live in moldy environments for years without experiencing any physical symptoms, while others have immediate and sometimes severe reactions that are associated with toxic mold. The most common response to mold exposure may be allergies. Any illness or disease caused by toxic mold can become chronic with extended exposure. Individuals most likely to contract some form of mold-related illness or disease are those who already have some kind of compromised immune system, such as… Infants whose immune systems are not fully developed The elderly whose immune systems are simply worn out AIDS, cancer, and chemotherapy patients Persons recovering from recent surgery People with sinus conditions and other allergies Pregnant women People with asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments The extent of symptoms depends on one’s sensitivity.

A wide variety of reactions are attributed to the toxic effects of mold, including… Chronic clogged throat Wheezing and cough Nose and throat irritation Shortness of breath Nausea or uncontrollable vomiting Skin irritation Persistent cold-like or flu-like symptoms Burning, itching, watering eyes Dizziness Tremors Heart palpitations Aggravation of asthma Exhaustion after routine activity Serious swelling of legs, ankles, and feet Serious swelling in the torso or stomach Prolonged muscle cramps and joint pain

Other less common effects are… Nervous system problems (headaches, memory loss, moodiness) Aches and pains Fever Unexplained chronic fatigue If you believe you might be living in a mold contaminated environment and fit into any of the susceptibility categories associated with mold, or if you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with mold exposure, you should see your physician for a medical evaluation and possibly a referral to a practitioner who specializes in occupational/environmental medicine.

You tube- The Symptoms of Mold Exposure

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ci2cqAR-ftI&feature...gdata

Helpful Mold Removal Tips for the Typical Person

23.02.2011 | Author: kirkhambridge http://myarticledirectory.ie/2011/02/helpful-mold-removal-tips-for-the-typica...

Everybody has encountered mold at one time or another. Whether you are a new home owner, have a rental or just subletting, you will have to encounter mold.

It might present itself as pink dots in the shower because you don’t remember to clean the shower when you finish. Perhaps it will be the ring around your drain. It might come in the format of dark spots way up on the wall over your stove or over. Maybe it is a few dark spots that are noticeable in the paint that encircles your windows.

The following are suggestions for getting rid of mold that you can utilize to deal with that uninvited bacteria. Position fans in your bathroom and kitchen. Make sure that you use them. Be certain to flip on the fan when you are cooking or taking a shower. The fan helps the air travelling. This will keep these two rooms from getting too much moisture. Dampness grows bacterium, mold and fungus. The more you have the air passing through your home, the less likely you will have to see mold in either of these areas of your home.

Obviously, fans are very loud, but this is not as difficult to deal with than patchy mold. If there are any problems in your home such as leaking faucets, leaky pipes, windows that do not line up with their frames or windows that aren’t keeping cold air out, then get them fixed. You want to keep the moisture out of your home as much as possible. This is because moisture grows mold and other pathogens. Plug up the links, fix all items, and install new fixtures. Do whatever you have to make sure that your home is plugged up good and tight. And of course, be certain that the seals are clean.

Dry up any puddles or points of moisture. Put a light on them to help decrease moisture in addition to clean any spills. Light (particularly sunlight) kills mold spores. So, placing a light on the damp areas of your home, but it also helps to stop new mold from growing in the area that once was wet. If you use linens or fabrics to wipe down wet moldy areas, then those linens should washed with bleached or tossed out.

There are many problems that are caused by mold both for your home as well as your work. It’s not good for you or your house, it can do structural damage. Black mold is the most toxic and needs to be eliminated quickly.

Contained in this article are only a few of the best methods for mold removal and prevention. Use them to help your home and your body to be as healthy and mold free as they can possibly be.

Should I Test My Home For Mold?

From http://www.essortment.com/should-test-home-mold-39618.html

If you think your home is 'sick' or has excessive mold growth, you should definitely have your home tested. There are companies that specialize in mold detection and removal. Your health is at risk as well as the structure of your home if you leave mold growing un-checked. This article will tell you why and how you should have your home tested for excessive or dangerous mold. Mold infestation needs to be taken care of immediately. If you see mold growing anywhere in your home in excessive amounts or if the color is a dark slimy black you need to have your home tested by a professional as this can be toxic mold. If someone in your household is suffering from asthma, allergies, fatigue, headaches or other unexplained conditions and you think that your home may have mold growing in it, get your house tested and see a doctor. Some molds can be cleaned up on your own, especially if the area is less than 10 square feet. But if you do clean it yourself you may risk sending the spores billowing through the air of your home and into your lungs. This can cause sickness especially if it is toxic mold and you may not know if the mold is toxic until it is too late. An expert in mold remediation and inspection is the best person to determine the type and extent of the mold you may have.

Read the rest of this article here: http://www.essortment.com/should-test-home-mold-39618.html

The Truth about Poisonous Mold

From http://lifeadviceblog.com/?p=5334

You know that your home can both be a fantastic place to be, or someplace you never need to live based on how you take care of it. You need to ensure that your family can stay within the home with out worrying about getting sick, or being injured. Since many individuals wish to shield their home from well being hazards, they are investigating the thought of toxic mold.

If you’re a home owner, and need ot know extra about toxic mold, you’re in the fitting location. The following paragraphs will present among the .information you need.

Before anything, we want to verify now we have the identical definition for the phrase mold. Mold is a particular type of fungi that makes use of spores to unfold throughout the surroundings and reproduce. The spores then land on numerous surfaces. If the surfaces are wet, mold progress will occur.

Most molds you.come involved with in your day by day life are truly harmless. They exist along the streets we walk on, the buildings where we are employed, even the park down the block. In reality, the term of toxic mold is somewhat of a misrepresentation. The mold will not be really the problem; it is the stuff produced throughout their feeding that’s trigger for concern.

Normally known as mycotoxins, these substances could cause disease and sicknesses in people. This material is believed to help enhance the cases of sicknesses together with asthma and sinus problems even in healthy people. They are a pure byproduct of what the mold does to survive.

In order to remove the threat of mycotoxins, you have to remove the mould, and the source of moisture that has allowed it to grow in your home. Remember, toxic mold, like some other kind of mould thrives in moist, poorly ventilated areas of your home.

Bathrooms with insufficient ventilation, leaking water pipes, roof leaks, and flooding can all contribute to extensive mold progress in a home. Also, things like the exhaust fan for your dryer are a spot the place mildew is more likely to occur. The essential rule of thumb is that for those who discover a place where moisture will accumulate, possibilities are mold will grow there.

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Black Mold FAQ

http://blackmoldbusters.com

What is black mold?
Black mold, also known as Stachybotrys mold, is a greenish black mold that can be hazardous to your health. Common in older homes and buildings, black mold should be removed as soon as it's identified to reduce the risk of serious health problems. Can I see black mold pictures?

Where does black mold grow?
Black mold grows in areas of your home that are either constantly exposed to moisture, or have been exposed to unusual amounts of moisture through flooding or other means. Black mold cannot grow without moisture. The most common places in the home for toxic black mold to grow are bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages and attics. In some cases, black mold can grow and spread throughout ventilation shafts, or in the spaces between walls. Any part of the home that is damaged by water is vulnerable to black mold.

Which serious health problems can black mold cause?
The worst complication stemming from toxic mold is black mold poisoning. Spores from the mold are inhaled and trapped in the sinus cavities; if not cleared out, the spores cause an infection in the sinuses, and the infection can then travel into the brain. The result of black mold poisoning can be permanent brain damage or death. Researchers also believe black mold spores may be responsible for incidents of lung hemorrhaging in children.

Can black mold cause more mild symptoms?
Yes. Prolonged exposure to black mold spores can cause cold or flu symptoms, memory problems, vision problems, loss of appetite, abdominal or body aches, difficulty breathing, sinus problems, frequent fevers and more. If you suddenly begin experiencing a wide range of symptoms for no apparent reason, and if you live in an older home or a home that recently sustained water damage, then you should call a professional to inspect for black mold.

How can I tell if my house has black mold?
In most cases, you can see black mold on your walls or ceiling. Sometimes, the mold grows behind walls or in vents where you can't see it. However, toxic black mold has a musty, mildew scent that can be smelled even when the mold can't be scene. Follow your nose, not just your eyes, when trying to find the source of mold in your home.

Should I try removing black mold by myself?
Black mold can be removed without the help of a professional, but you must wear safety gear and completely seal off the room you're abating before any mold can be cleaned. You must also have a way of making absolutely sure that there's no mold growing behind a wall or in the ceiling. Failure to remove the mold won't solve your problem. When you hire a professional mold removal company, you can rest assured knowing that your mold problem will be mitigated.

How can I prevent black mold from regrowing?
As stated earlier, black mold requires moisture to grow and thrive. The best way to prevent the reoccurrence of black mold is to reduce the amount of moisture in the part of your home where mold is growing. This may mean improving the ventilation for that room, or purchasing a dehumidifier to help control the amount of moisture in the air. Other products can also help keep the air dry, which will significantly help control mold growths.

Mold Cleaning Service Cost

by Joel Howald, Factoidz Writer (Ranked #24 expert in Renovations & Remodeling)

Mold can cause serious harm to humans and pets if left untended and extensive cleaning costs . No matter where it grows in or under a home or business it can only get worse if not removed and can result in hundreds and thousands if not millions of dollars of renovations and repairs of mold cleaning service costs or lead to an expensive professional mold remediation and prevention projects. What is Mold? Molds, also called mildew, are simple tiny organisms (fungi) that develop and grow on almost any organic substance. If there is oxygen and moisture present, molds can grow. Minimal and small amounts of indoor mold are normal, larger quantities can result in odors and serious health problems, including respiratory diseases.In some cases, minor to severe structural damage to wood and other building materials. "A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home", is available in guide form from The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Typical costs: If mold is confined to a surface area of no more than 10 square feet (about 3-feet-by-3-feet), you can do- it -yourself, the EPA suggests removal, by scrubbing hard surfaces as necessary with detergent and water, then drying using large blower fans and an airing out of the space containing the mildew.. In more concentrated cases of mold, the scrubbing process should include a water and mild bleach solution, then a water-detergent solution Mold removal from an average house crawlspace ranges from $500 -$4,000, according to Charter Oak Environmental of Connecticut. A typical mold remediation project, overall, to remove mold from the ducts, crawl spaces, walls and attic of a small house costss about $2,000 -$6,000. If the mold on that small house has caused widespread structural damage, repair costs for the mold-related structures can increase the mold cleaning costs total to as much as $10,000 -$30,000 or more. What should be included Also called mildew, mold can grow on wood, paper, carpet and food. Most molds are relatively harmless, although some types or forms of mold are extremely dangerous or very toxic. Molds release tiny spores to reproduce. These spores are often airborne-but not always. You cannot possibly eliminate all mold and mold spores — the most important key to the controlling of mold growth inside your home is controlling the moisture in the air inside the home. Repair all leaky plumbing or other sources of water. Then dry water-damaged areas or items within a continuous period of 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth. A good mildew prevention guide to follow is published by the North Carolina State University’s Cooperative Extension Program. Any remains of mold can still cause health problems, even dead mold. Remediation includes and involves procedures for killing the mold and removing it. Professionals equipment includes use of specialized air scrubbers, HEPA-filtered air movers, industrial-strength biocides and moisture meters. If a mold is disturbed, it sends out in the air reproductive spores – it’s absolutely essential to stop and prevent the spread of mold during the cleanup process. Certified mold workers are required to wear respirators, gloves and special protective clothing (including full overalls). The mold cleaning team, or remedial work area should be surrounded and enclosed by plastic sheeting, and all air vents, doors or other openings covered. A large project or a toxic remedial project mold may require a decontamination chamber (or airlock) for entering and exiting the defined work area. Mold remediation guidelines are available from North Carolina State University. Additional costs to consider In most cases, mold testing or inspection should be completed before any remediation work to determine the extent of the problem. Post- project completion remediation testing should also be done to be sure the process was successful. This post-testing needs to be completed while sheeting and enclosures are still in place in the event any rework or remediation is necessary due to non-compliance air test results are still present. Most industry experts recommend having these air inspections done by a different firm than the one doing the remediation or mold removal work. The presence of mold equates to a water problem that must be fixed or the mold will return- New plumbing may be required; improvement of your home’s drainage or ventilation; moving attic air conditioning units out of the attic; adding vapor barriers; or repairing or replacing the roof. Mold removal costs will depend on the type and extent of the specific problem. You need to obtain three quotes from certified and experienced contractors (no less than three years experience) for any of these major projects before proceeding. All of these will need to meet your local jurisdictional code authority or city, county, or state building department. It may be necessary to pay for other housing until the work is done If there is toxic mold or the remediation area is large, Discounts: Check with your account,tax professional or the IRS to determine if the mold cleaning service cost or cost of mold remediation might be tax deductible. Where you can find a mold cleaning specialist: An untrained or inexperienced mold remediation contractor can do more harm than good as mold spreads easily when it is disturbed, and . Verify with your state licensing board to make sure a contractor has a proper certification and is licensed specifically for mold remediation. Ask about training, request and call references; check certification and experience; know specifically who in the company will perform the mold cleaning work; and… be sure the company has general liability insurance. Also call the Better Business Bureau and check for any complaints about the company or individual workers. Ask for and get detailed estimates followed by a detailed contract. An explanation on how to select a remediation contractor is available from The International Union of Operating Engineers explains . Check and verify to be sure that your contractor is certified by a professional group requiring training, experience and testing of applicants. There are many good organizations offering mold "certification" — however, some unscrupulus organizations require only a fee or an online course to qualify as a certified expert. Qualified mold remediation referrals are available from the Restoration Industry Association, the American Indoor Air Quality Council and the American Industrial Hygiene Association.

Shield Your Home Against Toxic Mold

http://www.unv-zimbabwe.org/
February 12th, 2011

The factor that would make molds poisonous may be the spores produced through the fungi. These spores with the substance mycotoxins harm people by means of cytoxicity – when spores kill other living cells to eliminate competition for resources. So whenever your body would be in get in touch with with these spores, you’ll find many health challenges you could possibly experience. So that you can stop this from occurring, mold command should be implemented in your house.
Probably the most widespread mold sort is S. chartarum, which could penetrate your residence in numerous techniques. Any opening such as windows, single or central air conditioning units or vents could be an simple channel for molds to invade your house. Some spores can even follow clothing, furnishings or pets. Additionally, they can be discovered in areas and materials that existing damp humid environments, from wet flower pots and water broken carpets to damaged h2o pipes and leaking faucets.
Checking your property for that presence of mildew is really a essential job, in particular should you have an older home or possibly a house which is prone to flooding. You’ll be able to buy mold detection kits that will spot indoor molds and toxic black molds. They’re outfitted with step-by-step manual as to how you will conduct the testing. On the other hand, if you are not certain or happy with the outcomes, you are able to have a professional inspector rather to implement the testing.
The appropriate measures to control further spreading of molds rely to the gravity in the mold situation within your home. But first of all, you’ve to shield your self should you determine to take more than this job on your very own no matter the mold growth size. You must put on a dust mask, rubber gloves, long-sleeved shirt and pants. By means of this, you minimize the risk of getting direct get in touch with with molds. Bear in mind molds are recognized to cause skin irritation, set off asthma as well as other respiratory well being difficulties.
In case you found only tiny regions with a moment mildew local community, you’ll be able to use mold testing kits that include some cleaning materials. Molds which have not spread as a lot might be eliminated using the use of a straightforward home-made cleansing combination – soap or bleach and h2o in equal components. You must also guarantee the affected places could be nicely aerated. You may also place dehumidifiers in dampness-prone locations.

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