Category Archives: Mold & Your Health

Mold Rage – Is It Real and What Are the Symptoms?

Mold Rage - Is It Real and What Are the Symptoms?

Mold Rage – Is It Real and What Are the Symptoms?

“Road rage” has become such a regular occurrence that it’s earned a listing in the dictionary. It may soon be joined by “mold rage,” a phenomenon that’s become one more compelling reason to seek mold removal in New York City and other areas.

Neurological Effects of Toxic Mold

Much has been publicized about upper respiratory symptoms and allergic reactions that are caused by exposure to mold. Scientists are now finding increasing evidence that mold can cause behavioral and neurological problems such as aggression and psychosis.

The culprit is mycotoxins, which are poisonous by-products of mold metabolism in some varieties. Several mycotoxins are so potent that they have been used as agents of biological warfare.

A Growing Body of Evidence

Here are just a few of the studies that have been documented by the National Institutes of Health (NIH):

– In an examination of 100 people who had been exposed to toxic mold in their homes, abnormal nervous system changes were found in all 100.

– Patients in another study reported “moderate” to “severe” physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms after exposure to mixed colonies of toxic mold. Testing showed impairments on a level with mild traumatic brain injury.

– One research team discovered that exposure to toxic molds can cause dysfunction of the body’s immune system, resulting in ailments such as depression, mood swings, sleep disturbance and memory loss.

Stern Mold: Your #1 Choice for Mold Removal in New York City

Don’t put the health of yourself and your loved ones at risk. Contact us to schedule a free mold inspection and learn more about our safe and effective programs for mold removal in New York City.

OSHA Guidelines on Mold in the Workplace

OSHA Guidelines on Mold in the Workplace

OSHA Guidelines on Mold in the Workplace

Residential mold problems often make the news headlines, but the stories don’t end there. Mold removal in New Jersey is equally important in office buildings, restaurants and other workplaces. While there are currently no federal regulations in place, OSHA offers helpful guidelines for dealing with workplace mold.

When Does Mold Become a Problem?

Mold spores are constantly present in the air, both indoors and outdoors. They generally have no effect unless they begin to colonize on an interior surface. If left untreated, mold can eventually cause serious health and structural issues.

What Causes Mold to Grow?

Water is the lifeblood of mold. Growth occurs in areas with excessive moisture, where a mold spore is more likely to come into contact with dampness. Risky workplace conditions include leaky pipes or roofs, and malfunctioning HVAC systems.

How Does Mold Impact Health?

Mold produces allergens that can trigger a number of upper respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes and scratchy throat. While people who suffer from allergies are most susceptible, those without allergies can still develop symptoms after prolonged exposure.

How Can Mold Be Prevented?

– Clean up water spills, leaks and floods immediately and repair any corresponding damage.

– Make sure that kitchens, bathrooms and moisture-generating appliances are properly vented according to code.

– Have HVAC systems inspected and maintained regularly.

– Schedule a professional mold assessment to identify risk factors and confirm the presence of mold.

Safe and Effective Mold Removal in New Jersey

Our proprietary MoldExterm program offers eco-friendly mold remediation and prevention with minimal disruption to your workplace. Contact Stern Mold to schedule a free mold inspection by one of our experienced technicians.

NYC Mold Removal – Mold Reaction What’s at Stake?

Mold Affects People Differently By Age and Medical Condition

Mold Affects People Differently By Age and Medical Condition

Mold hits some people harder than others, but anyone can experience a negative mold reaction. The symptoms can range from itchy eyes to serious respiratory illnesses, so it’s always safest to call for NYC mold removal if you think you have an infestation.

At-Risk Groups for Mold Reactions

If you manage an apartment building, hotel, or office space, it’s virtually guaranteed that some of your tenants and guests will be at high risk for mold-related health problems. Homes with children or elderly family members should be on alert, too.

Health conditions linked to mold reactions include:

– Asthma and allergies

– Cancer or chemotherapy

– Lung disease

– Liver disease

– HIV or other immune disorders

Mold Affects Everyone

When exposed to mold in large quantities or for an extended period of time, even a healthy adult with no known allergies might develop a reaction. The most common symptoms:

– Itchy, red eyes

– Runny nose

– Dermatitis (rashes)

– Wheezing, irritated lungs

– And other allergy and respiratory problems

NYC Mold Removal Prevents an Expensive Disaster

Too often, the health effects of mold go unnoticed while people struggle through months of coughing, sneezing, and allergic reactions to mold.

In the worst case scenario, an entire office or apartment building might see several tenants hospitalized due to mold reaction. A tragedy for the victims, and perhaps a costly lawsuit for the landlord.

With so much at stake, consider getting a mold inspection sooner rather than later for NYC mold removal services.

The inspection is free, and Stern Mold uses the MoldExterm system that is less costly and disruptive compared to traditional tear-out methods.

Contact Stern Mold for NYC mold removal with a lasting solution.

NYC Mold Removal – Center for Disease Control’s Recommendations on Mold

Protect your Health from Dangerous Molds That May be in Your Home.

Protect your Health from Dangerous Molds That May be in Your Home.

If your home has been involved in a natural disaster that caused flooding, there are a lot of issues that will need to be addressed. One issue you’ll need to take care of quickly is controlling the conditions that promote mold growth, which causes health problems.

Mold in Your Home

The first step with a mold problem is drying out the area. This includes removing carpeting, furniture, anything that was on the floor and got wet. You may also need to have areas of damaged drywall removed. Anywhere that moisture had an opportunity to sit untouched is a viable place for mold to grow.

Health Issues

Mold spores in the air can cause people with asthma to have difficulty breathing. It can also cause allergic reactions, irritate eyes and skin, and cause people with weakened immune systems additional problems.

Cleaning up Mold

While removing water-damaged items from your home is something you can do, cleaning up moldy areas is something you should leave to a professional NYC mold removal specialist. For your part, wear latex gloves, goggles, and a face mask or respirator when removing moldy items. Use a wet vac to remove any standing water. Open doors and windows to speed up the drying out process. Wipe down everything in the home including drawers, vanities, closets, etc.

For the actual removal of mold, that’s when you call in a specialist part, who has the experience, equipment, and treatments to make your home safe and mold-free.

When mold infiltrates your home and you need the help of a reputable NYC mold removal company, call Stern Mold to schedule a free inspection and discuss treatment options.

What to Know About NYC Mold Removal – Is It Worth the Effort?

Good hygiene routines around the house are essential to fighting off the growth of mold.

Good hygiene routines around the house are essential to fighting off the growth of mold.

What is mold remediation and is it something that’s necessary for every property owner who sees evidence of mold? The answer can be yes and no. Like most everything, there are two sides to every story and mold is no exception.

To Remediate or Not – That is the Question

Any reputable NYC mold removal specialist will tell you that mold is alive and well and has been since the beginning of time, and then tell you what needs to be done to make your property mold-free. On the reverse side, you may run into businesses that try to scare you into believing you need a series of tests and inspections to determine the extent of the moldy encroachment in your basement, attic, or under the sink.

Unfortunately, mold remediation has become big business and not everyone has your best interests at heart. If you’re considering hiring a mold remediation service, just be aware that you may not need all the bells and whistles they’re selling in order to de-mold your home or business.

There are certain steps to be taken to remove mold safely. You don’t want to dislodge mold spores to infiltrate unaffected areas. While most mold isn’t toxic, it can be problematic for some, which makes safety a primary focus.

For this reason, hiring a licensed NYC mold removal professional is recommended. With a professional on board, there is no second-guessing or additional steps taken that aren’t necessary.

When mold finds moisture in your home, it’s only natural for it to set up housekeeping. With a call to Stern, we’ll be sure to give it the boot on it’s way out.

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