THE SIGHT of fuzzy mould spores sprouting in damp nooks and crannies is unwelcome but familiar to many Brits.
As obvious as the green, grey and black growths are, sometimes mould can spread unbeknown to us in our home.
GettyIt can be quite obvious if your home is infested with mould, but sometimes the spores can sprout unbeknown to you and cause telltale symptoms[/caption]
This might especially be the case following the weather of the past few weeks, as the UK was battered by icy cold winds followed by sheets of rain.
According to the Asthma + Lung UK, the extreme cold and heavy rain will have created the ideal environment for damp and mould to thrive in indoor environments.
As the fungus creeps across hidden spots in our home it can cause all sorts unpleasant symptoms and put certain vulnerable groups at risk.
Dr Andy Whittamore, clinical lead at the lung charity and a practising GP, told Sun Health: “Living somewhere that is damp or mouldy is not good for anyone with a lung condition such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
“Babies, small children, older people, people with asthma and people with allergies, are all more likely to be affected by damp and mould,” he added.
The GP revealed a few key ways your body is telling you there might be mould lurking in your home without your knowledge.
“Mould produces spores, which can be breathed in and if you are allergic to mould spores you might have symptoms like coughing, wheezing or sneezing, irritation in the nose and throat, or shortness of breath,” Dr Whittamore told Sun Health.
“It could also trigger asthma symptoms and leave people struggling to breathe.”
The spores can be especially perilous to people with asthma, according to the GP.
“Mould can cause a potentially life-threatening asthma attack and can increase your risk of things that could make your asthma worse like chest infections, colds and flu, and rhinitis.”
Rhinitis refers to when your nose gets irritated by something you’re allergic to, causing cold-like symptoms that include:
An itchy nose
Itchy, red and watery eyes
A cough
The roof of your mouth being itchy
This’ll usually happen within minutes of coming into contact with mould or whatever else you’re allergic to, the NHS says.
It added that coming into contact with mould spores could also cause a skin rash.
How can I protect myself from the harmful effects of mould?
Emma Rubach, head of health advice at the Asthma + Lung UK, said: “The combination of warmer air inside homes and colder temperatures outside during the cold spell we had several days ago created the perfect environment for mould to grow, which is a major trigger for those with asthma and COPD.
“Now we have heavy rain, which will cause damp in the atmosphere and can make mould worse as it thrives in damp environments.”
The charity had a few pieces of advice for protecting yourself and your home from mould’s harmful effects this winter.
If you have a lung condition, take all your medicines as prescribed to reduce your risk of mould exacerbating it
Keep rooms well-aired by opening your windows for five to 10 minutes throughout the day, especially if you’re cooking or showering
Air out your room when drying the washing or use an airing cupboard or tumble dryer
Fix any leaks or water damage, as this will help to prevent humidity that causes condensation
If you can, keep your home at a good background temperature so it never gets too cold – ideally at least 18 degrees when it’s cold outside
Use extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom or open a window when cooking or after showering to get rid of moisture in the air
Close the door of the room you are in if you’re cooking or showering to prevent condensation in other rooms
Try a dehumidifier to prevent damp and mould – but avoid if the dry air makes you cough
Dr Whittamore said: “If you’re having asthma symptoms or need your reliever inhaler three or more times a week, see your GP or asthma nurse.
“Whether it’s damp, mould, or something else making your asthma worse, they can help you get back in control of your symptoms.
“And, I would advise that if you have bad damp, mould, or fungi in your home, try to seek professional help or speak to your landlord to deal with it – especially if you think it might trigger your breathing problems.”
What are the symptoms of an asthma attack?
Signs that you may be having an asthma attack include:
A cough, breathlessness, wheezing or tight chest that are getting worse
Your reliever inhaler (usually blue) is not helping
You’re too breathless to speak, eat or sleep
Your breathing is getting faster and it feels like you cannot catch your breath
Your peak flow score is lower than normal
Children may also complain of a tummy or chest ache