There are different kinds of molds that are affecting homes. One of these is Aspergillus, which is recognized as an allergen. It consists of mycelial fragments and airborne spores that are responsible for bringing out symptoms of allergic reactions within individuals. This goes especially if the person has bronchial asthma or rhinitis. The sensitivity to Aspergillus may also result to severe asthma. If the condition of the individual is very serious, it can be very fatal.
According to studies, up to 70 percent of patients with mold-allergic reactions have reactivity to the mold Aspergillus during their skin test. What is more, it has been discovered that heavy and prolonged exposure to the mycelial fragments and spores of Aspergillus is similar with the exposure to common allergens like dust mites and cat dander. Aside from being an allergen, Aspergillus is recorded to be a pathogen, which is the opportunistic type. It can cause skin diseases, most especially to immunocompromised patients. An example of this kind of patient is one that has just undergone bone marrow operation.
It has been speculated that Aspergillus airborne spores are highly present within homes than outdoors. The presence of the spores indoors is significantly heightened if the house is cleaned with mechanical equipments such as vacuum cleaning carpets. There are studies that are concentrating on the prevalence of the species of Aspergillus, specifically within indoor environments. These studies have documented that A. furnigatus are more common in bathrooms and kitchens. On the other hand, A. repens and A. versicolor is found in carpets and mattresses. Both A. furnigatus and A. versicolor are common in basements and pad materials. A. niger, A. flavus, and A. furnigatus are more likely to develop in the soil of flower pots.
These findings have been possible because of the samples that have been taken out from damp areas of the home such as walls or floors. They are found in wallpaper, PVC wall covering, floor, gypsum board, acrylic paint, fans, filters, water humidifier, leather, shoes, decomposing wood, soil from potted plants, and bird droppings. Some of the samples have been taken out from the gathered dust of upholstered furniture, mattress, and carpet.
The first effect of Aspergillus to your life is causing you to experience allergic reactions. There are several A. species that produce hydrophobic spores, which are breathed in easily since they are microscopic. These spores are so small that an estimated 70 percent of A. furnigatus spores are capable of penetrating the body's primary bronchi and trachea. Almost 1 percent of the same species can reach the alveoli. Accidentally inhaling Aspergillus spores can affect your health greatly. One species of Aspergillus, which is A. clavatus, can result to hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This health problem is obtained mainly from working areas.
Aspergillus can lead to bio-deterioration. There are some species that have the capacity to use up different organic material varieties as their food. This is due to the fact that they can produce a huge population of enzymes. When indoor conditions are humid, A. species can develop on cloth fabrics and leather, making the materials lose their quality. They also make clothing and shoes develop a musty odor.
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Article by William Gold. He writes about the health risks caused by mold. For Mold Removal and Mold Inspection visit CleanFlood.com they have the best rates and service on the web.