Health effects of mould: experts warning of problem that comes with La Nina | Kidspot

2022-09-23 21:22:05 By : Ms. Rebecca Wu

There can be dramatic consequences if you let mould grow unchecked. Here's what to look for and what you can do about it.

The Bureau of Meteorology says a La Nina event is underway - and is likely to peak now in spring, rather than in summer as it has over the last two years.

Health experts are now reminding those of us who experienced it and lived to tell the tale, that the resulting increased moisture and humidity levels have created the perfect breeding ground for mould, which can pose a significant health risk.

So here's a quick refresher on mould and what we can do about it in our homes.

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RELATED: Woman’s bathroom mould removal hack

Dr Sam Hay explained for Kidspot that, "simply living in damp and mouldy environments can cause a raft of health issues."

Here's why now more than ever, Aussies need to be aware of the risks.

Explaining that mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated areas, which means it can grow anywhere in the house where moisture collects, Dr Hay suggested that people check sites such as: around doors, across the backs of furniture or behind beds, in curtains and carpets, leather goods and books.

If mould runs rampant in your home, it's dangerous for your family because it's everywhere.

"When inhaled, these spores trigger a reaction on the lining of the airways leading to an over-production of mucous; plus stimulation of the 'allergy' pathways," Dr Hay said.

"This means the symptoms from mould exposure resemble those of other allergies and processes like 'hay fever' or allergic rhinitis.

"For people with asthma, mould can be a potent trigger of an asthma attack. It can also lead to itchy skin and eczema flares.

"Reactions and symptoms can be severe when exposed to mould spores in high concentrations."

Dr Hay added that prolonged exposure can lead to issues breathing at night, poor sleep, irritability, headaches, and fatigue, in both adults and children.

"People with weakened immune systems or chronic lung conditions can be more susceptible to the effects of mould exposure, and can even develop chronic lung reactions," he said.

RELATED: Simple air con trick shows how you can prevent that mould issue

The first thing is to ensure you're checking your home regularly. Mould can appear green, white or black in colour.

The key is to manage the growth of any you find by cleaning, addressing humidity in the house with dehumidifiers and ventilation, and mould-absorbing pots.

"Regular cleaning of surfaces in susceptible rooms is necessary, especially bedrooms when the family is struggling with night time symptoms or poor sleep issues," Dr Hay advised.

Here's what else you can do.

According to the Better Health Channel, "leaky roofs and walls, condensation from cooking, showering, clothes drying and... areas with poor air circulation" may encourage the growth of mould indoors.

So fix anything that's contributing to the damp conditions in your home - including drying your wet laundry.

It's also recommended wet washing should never be dried inside during periods of high humidity; but if it's also raining outside, what can you do?

One mum has recently come up with a genius solution.

TikTok user @moneymumofficial posted a clip this week to show her 66,000 followers how she puts a gazebo up over her backyard washing line to protect it from bad weather.

In text over the video, she wrote: "Save some money on electricity!

"The autumn will be here soon, and the rain will soon kick in.

"So rather than dry the washing in the house on an airer or on the radiators or use the tumble dryer… we've put the pop-up tent over the washing line!"

RELATED: Traditional baby product might just kill your mould

There are many DIY recipes that include a mixture of vinegar, eucalyptus oil, clove oil and/or tea tree oil that are available on the internet. But when you've got a big problem, you need the hard stuff - and this mum has a recommendation.

The mum explained, "In the past, I've tried Exit Mould, and other made up DIY concoctions... nothing has worked.

"But the $2.80 Woolworths Select Mould Killer has always been effective and stopping a full-blown outbreak."

She added that one application of the spray to a pipe in her bathroom - with no wiping - made the mould vanish.

"I don't know what's in Strike Mould Killer.  All I know is that black mould is unhealthy and unsightly and using this spray, even I can get into the corner of a high ceiling and remove mould.

"It's quick, easy and cheap."

If you have really little kids, you might feel better about using Milton anti-fungal products, as we reported here.

You should also use every air treatment that's available to you, such as ceiling and exhaust fans, free-standing fans, air purifiers and dehumidifiers.

Even your air conditioner most likely has an anti-humidity function!