Mould
Asthma and Mould
Moulds are types of fungi that grow indoors and outdoors in damp, dark places, and usually have a musty smell. there are different species of mould. Moulds release tiny seeds called spores into the air, which can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. Mould spores are found in any damp place - from piles of autumn leaves and woody areas to bathrooms, kitchens and even piles of damp clothes. The spores that moulds give off may cause allergic reactions throughout the year.
Ireland has one of the highest rates of asthma in Europe and the prevalence is rising. There are many factors that influence the rates of asthma increasing but poor housing and mould, spores and mildew has long been recognised as a causative factor in many common respiratory conditions.
Reducing Growth of Mould
Mould needs a moisture to grow. If you do find damp and mould in your house the following steps may help to minimize your exposure to these asthma triggers and reduce dampness in your home:
• Open windows and doors as often as possible to ensure your home/workplace is well ventilated
• Fix anything that allows moisture to enter e.g. leaking roofs, pipes or gutters or rising damp.
• Install extractor fans in places like bathrooms, laundries and kitchens to vent moisture from showering and cooking etc
• Avoid using evaporative air conditioners (the ones you put water into) as they increase humidity levels.
• Do not use carpets in high humidity areas such as bathrooms and basements.
• Remove mould or mildew from walls, shower curtains etc.
• Dry clothes outside or vent the airflow from laundry dryers outside
• Air clothes and wardrobes regularly. Do not store dirty or damp laundry in closed cupboards.
• Avoid contact with spores from rotting vegetation e.g. compost, leafmould.
• Do not store firewood indoors.
• If you are considering air conditioning for your house, investigate before you buy, it can be expensive and not all types are suitable.
• Vacuum filters need to be effective against the extremely fungal spores. (The type of filter required is a HEPA. This is a type not a brand name).
Note: It may be impossible to significantly reduce dampness in some homes
How to Clean and Remove Mould Safely
Prevention in the first place is actually better than the cure!
It is advisable to wear gloves, goggles and a mask during cleaning. Once cleaning is complete, discard any sponges or cloths used in the process.
• Ideally a person without asthma should clean mould areas as the cleaning process may release thousands of spores which could lead to asthma symptoms
• Be careful which cleaning products you use as often the chemicals are intensely irritating to the airways and can trigger asthma symptoms. Ideally use gentle cleaning products without harsh cleaning agents.
Note: Dehumidifiers have not been shown to be helpful in asthma control.
Watch Asthma Triggers in the Home Video
