Mold Problems

Mold is found everywhere inside and out, and can grow on almost any surface when moisture is present. Molds reproduce by making spores, which are carried by air currents. When, the spores land on a moist surface, they begin to grow. Mold is very common and normally found indoors at levels that do not affect most individuals. But when moisture levels are right for growth, mold levels quickly grow and become a serious health problem.
Mold growth is dependent on moisture, most often in the form of humidity. Given the proper conditions, mold can grow on wood, drywall, carpet, carpet padding, concrete, or any surface that the spores can stick to. Mold spores can last for very long periods of time, waiting for the proper conditions to become active and grow.
Mold can grow inside any building structure. It only needs a surface, moisture, and time.
The problem with the presence of mold is the inhalation of mycotoxins. Molds can produce high levels of mycotoxins even after the dwelling is dried and mold growth has subsided. Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites capable of causing disease and death in humans and other animals. Because of their pharmacological activity, some mycotoxins or mycotoxin derivatives have found use as antibiotics, growth promotants, and other kinds of drugs; still others have been implicated as chemical warfare agents. Mold exposure is commonly associated with human and veterinary diseases, including aflatoxin, citrinin, ergot akaloids, fumonisins, ochratoxin A, patulin, trichothecenes, and zearalenone. These illnesses can be associated with symptoms of fatigue, anxiety, skin rash, allergic reactions, respiratory distress, and even death.