Water Damage: Bad For Your Home, But Bad For You as Well

 

flood damageMost of us are well aware of the issues water damage can cause in our homes. Common issues are structural and foundational damage, irreparable destruction to walls and carpet, and the devastating loss of personal possessions. All of that can be replaced. Our well-being and our lives, however, can’t be replaced. This is why it is so important to be aware of the potential health effects water damage can have. Here are two of the common health problems caused by water damage.

Mold

This is probably the biggest and most common health-related consequence of water damage. Mold is a growth of minute fungal material. Many types of mold are harmless, however, there are also many types that pose minor and serious health risks.

Some of the more minor and common problems caused by mold include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Sinus congestion
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Joint pain/stiffness
  • Headaches
  • Chronic coughing

While none of these symptoms are overwhelmingly serious no one wants to endure having them, and they can all be catalyzed by mold growth in your home.

There can be, however, much more serious symptoms caused by mold. Based on the type of mold, the extent of your exposure, your age, and your general health the level of severity will vary. The two types of mold that are most dangerous are pathogenic molds and toxigenic molds.

  • Pathogenic molds– This is a type of mold can produce some types of infection. It is of particular concern for those with weak immune systems. It can lead to pneumonia and cause fungus to grow in the lungs of immune compromised individuals.
  • Toxigenic molds- These types of mold are dangerous because they produce something called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins can have serious health effects on just about anyone. Possible reactions from this include immunosuppression and even cancer.

Contaminated water

Oftentimes flood water contains contaminants that can seriously endanger the lives of people exposed to it. One of the most common contaminants flood water mixes with is sewage. There is a host of deadly, infectious diseases that can be found in sewage or otherwise contaminated water. Cholera, typhoid, and dysentery to name a few can all be contracted through filthy water and all of them can prove to be deadly. It is important that if flooding occurs in your home you take extreme care around the floodwater. Wear protective clothing when around it, and remove anything in your house that has yet to be affected before it is contaminated as well. When this type of damage occurs, though, it is always best to refer cleaning up the mess to the professionals.

With flooding being one of the major causes of home damage throughout the world, its effects are far more reaching than that of your home. Floodwater has the potential to cause harmful and even deadly mold in your home. Along with that, the dangers of contaminated water are not to be taken lightly. In cases of flood damage, we at Ally 1 Disaster Solutions are dedicated to keeping you and your Cedar City home safe when the floods come.

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