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The term “asbestos” encompasses a collection of natural mineral fibers found in rocks and soil, which were commonly utilized in various products due to their durability and exceptional ability to withstand fire and chemicals.
According to statistics and facts on asbestos, it is responsible for the death of around 39,000 Americans annually. This is because consistent exposure to asbestos results in multiple irreversible diseases.
If your home was constructed during the mid-20th century or later, it may be necessary to consider asbestos abatement in light of concerning facts about asbestos.
Asbestos is highly sought after for its fire and chemical resistance, leading to its widespread use in over 5,000 products. Throughout history, the following items have contained asbestos:
Health Risks Associated with Asbestos Exposure
Despite its widespread use in various industries, asbestos eventually gained notoriety due to its potential health risks.
Although it is known for its resistance to fire and chemicals, asbestos can easily deteriorate when handled by humans. Activities such as drilling, cutting, or striking floor tiles, shingles, or any other product containing asbestos can cause the release of asbestos fibers into the air, which can then be inhaled.
Another concern is the potential for ingesting asbestos fibers through the consumption of water that passes through pipes made of asbestos cement.
Although the health hazard is minimal for individuals who have been exposed to asbestos for a short time, prolonged asbestos exposure can lead to various illnesses including:
Each year, approximately 3,000 individuals receive a diagnosis of mesothelioma, a form of cancer often associated with asbestos exposure. This disease affects the lining of the lungs and abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as chest or abdominal discomfort, difficulty breathing, a dry and wheezing cough, fever or night sweats, muscle weakness, and fatigue.
Asbestosis is a lung disease that is characterized by chronic symptoms such as shortness of breath and scarring of the lung tissue. It is caused by prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers, resulting in difficulty swallowing, crackling breathing, high blood pressure, clubbing of fingertips and toes, persistent dry coughing, and chest pain or tightness. Additionally, individuals with asbestosis have a higher likelihood of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma, a type of lung cancer, impacts the lining of the lungs, while lung cancer forms within the organ. Although smoking and other environmental triggers are the primary culprits of lung cancer, asbestos exposure is also a contributing factor. Interestingly, individuals who smoke and have a history of asbestos exposure are at the greatest risk of developing lung cancer.
According to recent research, it has been confirmed that ovarian cancer in individuals who use cosmetic talc products is associated with asbestos exposure.
Given the widespread use of asbestos in numerous constructions and items, we are all susceptible to being exposed to asbestos.
During the peak of asbestos use, certain professions carried a significantly greater risk of exposure compared to others. These occupations included:
A significant number of homes and commercial buildings in the United States are constructed with materials that contain different amounts of asbestos. During renovations or demolitions of these structures, the presence of asbestos in the materials is likely to be disrupted. This can lead to the release of asbestos fibers into the air, posing a risk of asbestos exposure to anyone in the vicinity.
If there is a suspicion of asbestos contamination in your residence or structure, it is highly recommended to hire asbestos specialists before commencing any construction or demolition activities. These professionals have the necessary expertise to examine and verify the presence of asbestos in your building.
Additionally, they possess the necessary skills, tools, and experience to safely and properly remove asbestos from any type of structure, all while adhering to strict regulations and procedures.
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Mold not only has the potential to cause severe illness and exacerbate allergies, but it can also be fatal.
This is especially true for certain types of mold, like black mold, which can shut down organs and weaken the immune system. Given the grave risks associated with mold, it is crucial to prioritize mold remediation.
If you have concerns about the potential presence of mold in your house, it is important to read this information. We will reveal the top five indicators of mold and guide how to identify them in your home.
Now is the moment to find the mold inside your house and start a strong line of defense!
Do you detect a damp odor in your house? The presence of mold can emit a musty and wet smell, similar to the scent of old books. However, this smell is not always a definitive sign of mold as different types of mold can have varying levels of odor strength. While some may have a strong smell, others may not be as pungent.
The scent of mold may vary depending on the type of surface it is found on. For instance, mold found on a clean and dry surface, like a door frame, may not emit any noticeable odor. However, if mold is growing on an aged carpet, it is likely to have a stronger and more offensive smell.
Have you observed an increase in coughing or sneezing? Have you also experienced an itchy throat or a consistently runny nose?
These indications suggest that the existence of mold could potentially be a factor in the onset or exacerbation of allergies. It is a fact that certain individuals are more susceptible to the effects of mold than others. These individuals are likely to experience a continual aggravation of their allergies due to mold. However, even those without preexisting allergies may experience allergy-like symptoms due to mold exposure.
Naturally, observing mold with unaided vision is a straightforward method for identifying its presence. It is crucial to keep in mind that mold can manifest in various visual forms. Each type of mold is associated with a unique cause and varying degrees of severity.
The common type of mold we typically observe on natural substances like food and trash is the simplest form of mold. It flourishes in damp places like basements and bathrooms.
Black mold is a frequently encountered variety of mold. Although the severity may vary, this particular type of mold can pose serious health risks. It typically appears as a mixture of green and black mold in places that have been impacted by water damage.
It is not unexpected that mold tends to flourish in damp and moist surroundings. If there is a leak from a pipe, toilet, or roof, the extra moisture can eventually lead to mold growth. Unfortunately, these areas are often neglected, allowing the mold to spread and worsen.
In warm and damp conditions, this issue persists and continues to grow. To combat it, experts suggest that homeowners maintain indoor humidity at or below 60 percent. Maintaining temperatures below 60 degrees creates a dry environment that is less conducive to mold growth.
One of the most frequent causes of mold growth is previous water damage experienced within the household. Even if the water damage occurred many years ago, there is still a chance for mold to develop. It is important to keep in mind that mold can persist and remain a problem for a long time.
The intensity of mold and one’s susceptibility to it can differ, as we are aware.
Though regular mold can exacerbate allergies, more severe types of mold can greatly impact a person’s well-being. This can manifest as skin irritation, fatigue, consistent nausea, and significant cognitive impairment.
A frequent response to mold is the development of a respiratory problem, such as asthma. In a mold-infected home, individuals are 40% more prone to developing asthma, according to the EU Healthy Homes Barometer 2017.
It is strongly advised to undergo a residential mold inspection and make an appointment with your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
Preventing mold from forming in your home may seem like an arduous task. In reality, finding a mold-free home would be quite difficult. Nevertheless, this does not mean that the presence of mold should be accepted and encouraged.
Although mold may not be visible to the naked eye, there are alternative methods for detecting its presence. These can include observing the smell and experiencing allergic reactions, as well as identifying water leaks and condensation, all of which can be indications of mold growth.
If there is a suspicion of mold in your home, it is crucial to address it promptly. Ignoring the problem can lead to mold spreading and potentially affecting your well-being and safety without proper treatment.
If you are thinking about residential mold remediation, please visit our website for information or contact us at 214-477-5902
