If you’ve been looking for a list of home health concerns to watch out for, you’ve come to the right place. From mold and chemicals to carbon monoxide, here’s everything you need to know.
Exposure to Molds
Mold is an organism typically found outdoors but can grow indoors. When indoor mold is contaminated with toxins, it can pose serious health risks. Occupational hazards can cause mold exposure. Examples include construction, farming, and greenhouse work. An old roof can also cause mold growth, and it’s essential to have a metal roof replacement.
The risks of exposure to indoor mold vary according to a person’s age and health. People with weakened immune systems, asthma or other respiratory conditions are at greater risk. If you think you have a problem with indoor mold, your doctor can recommend a course of action. Most people do not experience harmful effects from exposure to airborne mold spores, but allergic reactions are possible.
These symptoms can include a runny nose, nasal congestion, itching, or watery eyes. People who already have respiratory problems may need inhalers to control the symptoms. They may also develop pneumonia or other infections after mold exposure. People who are sensitive to mold can have more severe reactions, such as a skin rash or a rash around the eyes. In some cases, immunotherapy may be needed.
Health complications related to mold can be difficult to diagnose. Symptoms are often confused for patients and doctors. A simple lifestyle assessment or a urine test can help you identify the signs of mold exposure.
Exposure to Chemicals
Exposure to chemicals can be a severe health hazard. Some substances can enter your body through inhalation and skin contact. Chemicals affect the circulatory, nervous, respiratory, and heart systems. When they come into contact with your skin, it can result in irritation and inflammation. Some people are more sensitive to certain chemicals than others. If unsure of your sensitivity to chemicals, you should seek medical care immediately.
Chemicals can cause short-term effects, such as nausea, headaches, dizziness, vomiting, blurred vision, and dry, white skin. Long-term effects, such as cancer, may develop after repeated exposure.
Chemicals can be used as a weapon but can also be found in household products. These include pesticides, gasoline, cosmetics, and cleaning solutions. To reduce your risk of chemical exposure, wear protective gloves when working with toxic chemicals. Wearing clothing that covers your entire body can also help prevent exposure.
Exposure to Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that comes from the incomplete burning of fuel. It is dangerous to humans and can lead to heart problems and death. The effects of exposure vary depending on the concentration. Symptoms include drowsiness, headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
If you have a house with combustion appliances, you are at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. You should install a carbon monoxide alarm and have it checked regularly. People with heart disease and respiratory problems are more susceptible to carbon monoxide. Even young children are at risk. Older adults are also at risk of developing brain damage from carbon monoxide. In addition, people at high altitudes are at higher risk.