Nurse shares symptoms to be wary of if you have mould

Mould can wreak havoc in your home without you even realising it, so from time to time, it’s a good idea to check around the nooks and crannies in your living space to see whether there’s any lurking.

Check behind beds, sofas, bookshelves, and other items. If you’re experiencing regular feelings of sickness, it could be due to mould.

According to the government website, “Damp and mould primarily affect the airways and lungs, but they can also affect the eyes and skin. The respiratory effects of damp and mould can cause serious illness and, in the most severe cases, death”.

They also share that it can take a toll on mental health, stating, “The presence of damp and mould can also affect tenants’ mental health. This could be due to worries about the health impacts of damp and mould, unpleasant living conditions, and destruction of property and belongings, among other concerns.”

A nurse from Hopewell Family Care took to TikTok to explain the “signs you have mould exposure,” admitting that “mould sucks”.

She shared that some of the main symptoms are “fatigue, headaches, frequent colds, and frequent ear infections”.

NHS Inform shares: “Moulds produce allergens (substances that can cause an allergic reaction). They can also produce irritants and sometimes toxic substances.

Inhaling or touching mould spores may cause an allergic reaction like:

• sneezing

• a runny nose

• red eyes

• skin rash

Moulds can also cause asthma attacks.”

But how does a home become so mouldy that you’d get physical symptoms?

Mould and damp are caused by too much moisture, which can be from a leak or in the air.

The NHS say that this can be caused by:

They also recommend that you find out the cause of the moisture in your home, and “take steps to limit the moisture in the air,” such as using a dehumidifier. If you are renting your property, ensure you speak to your landlord about the mould, and find out the steps they are willing to take to help.

It may be the case that you need a professional to remove mould, but the NHS says: “If it’s only a small amount, you may be able to remove it yourself.”

They also note: “It’s important to wear gloves and a facemask if you’re removing mould. Always open a window if you’re using bleach products to remove it.”