The Sneaky Culprit Behind Fall Colds and Flu: Could It Be Mold in Your Central Texan Home?
Fall in Austin, Texas brings relief from scorching summer temperatures, with cooler days and crisp, refreshing air. As the leaves begin to change color, residents and visitors alike revel in the picturesque landscapes that adorn the Lone Star State. However, alongside this seasonal transition, it’s essential to be mindful of common health concerns. While many might assume that the common cold is the primary culprit, another, often overlooked, health issue is home mold growth. With the increased moisture from sporadic autumn rains and fluctuating temperatures, homes can become breeding grounds for mold. The allergic reactions and respiratory problems can trigger rival the symptoms of the common cold, making it important to address this issue as attentively as one would their health during the fall season.
All Nation Restoration is Austin Texas #1 Mold remediation company. Not only are they are one stop shop for a multitude of issues that can affect your home due to water and fire related damages, but they have an entire team and protocol to help protect your home and your family.
Understanding the Fall Cold and Flu Season
Cooler Temperatures: As temperatures drop, people tend to spend more time indoors, leading to close contact and easier transmission of viruses.
Decreased Humidity: Fall air is often dry, making it easier for viruses to thrive and spread.
Back-to-School Season: Not much needs to be said here, accept, “Petri dish” of viral crud. Its the time of year kids are all squished together in one space and the likelihood of viral transmission skyrockets.
Weakening Immune System: Abrupt Texan temperature changes can make your immune system weaker, which makes getting sick, easier!
"While ALL these factors play a big part of Fall/ Winter illness, there is another main character that doesn’t always get recognized frequently =MOLD"
The Silent Invader
I do not know anyone that doesn’t hate mold. It is an unpleasant invader that nobody wants to come into their home. However, it can be found literally anywhere in your home. While mold is often associated with allergy symptoms, it can cause problems with a lot of individuals with chronic respiratory issues, making it easier to contract colds and the flu.
How Mold Affects Your Health
Mold produces tiny spores that are easily inhaled. When this happens, an entire range of health issues can become triggered, Including;
Respiratory Issues: Our lungs do not welcome spores with love and happiness. Mold can cause similar symptoms to those of the common cold, such as coughing and a runny nose.
Allergies: Those of us who deal with Central Texas allergies, really are not open to the idea of making them worse. Mold is one of the main culprits that can mimic your normal allergies and make you feel sicker than normal. Which is really, NOT COOL.
Weakened Immune System: Anyone, especially young children and elderly adults who are in a home with prolonged exposure, it is known it can cause a weakened immune system, making it harder for these immune-compromised individuals to fight off infections, including the flu. This can be terrifying if you are the caregiver, trying hard to protect your loved one.
Asthma: Asthma is a scary condition when exacerbations occur. Mold is known to worsen asthma symptoms in individuals who were previously not affected.
Signs of Mold Infestation
All Nation Restoration can assist in detecting hard to see mold in your home. However, here are some of our signs that we look for when we start the process of helping each home or business owner out.
Musty Odor: A persistent musty smell, especially in basements or crawlspaces, is a common indicator of growth.
Visible Growth: Mold can appear as discolored patches on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces. It may also manifest as black, green, or brown spots.
Water Damage: Any past or present water leaks or flooding increase the likelihood of growth.
Allergic Symptoms: If you or your family members experience allergy-like symptoms indoors that improve when you leave, it might be due to mold exposure.
Prevention and Remediation
Preventing mold growth and addressing it promptly are crucial steps to protect your health during the fall cold and flu season:
Control Moisture: Keep humidity levels in your home between 30-50%. Use dehumidifiers and fix any water leaks promptly.
Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where moisture accumulates.
Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean and dust your home, paying attention to areas where mold is more likely to grow.
Mold-Resistant Materials: Use mildew-resistant paints and materials in moisture-prone areas.
Professional Inspection: If you suspect mold, consider hiring a professional inspector to assess your home’s levels and recommend remediation if necessary. Calling All Nation Restoration will help you get started with this process from start to finish.
Proper Remediation: All Nation Restoration has become popular due to its Mold Remediation Specialty. They are leading the industry with their protocols and containment systems that will be used in your home to protect the rest of your home and your entire family from the danger of further growth and infestation.
While the fall cold and flu season is largely driven by viral infections, mold in your home can exacerbate these issues and make you more vulnerable to illness. Understanding the signs of mildew infestation taking preventive measures, and calling All Nation Restoration for their expert advice is vital for maintaining a healthy living environment. By addressing the silent invader that is mold, you can better protect yourself and your family from the seasonal health challenges that come with the autumn months.
