Guest guest Posted February 8, 2006 Report Posted February 8, 2006 Mold and Illness February 08, 2006 by Ben Hermsen http://www.dailyindia.com/show/1650.php Molds and fungus are nearby virtually everywhere we go. For the most part these molds are relatively innocuous. Certain molds, however, do pose substantial health risks. According to Berlin D. , Ph.D., department of plant pathology, North Dakota State University, Stachybotrys Chartarum or " black mold " is the most prominent and notorious of the toxic molds (1). Black mold is a heavy producer of mycotoxins (toxins created by a fungus). These mycotoxins cause a wide range of symptoms from headaches to flu-like symptoms, and chronic illnesses. The mycotoxins created by black mold are numerous, but fall into 3 main categories: Macrocyclic Trichothecenes, which inhibit protein synthesis; Phenylspirodrimanes and Cyclsporine, which are strong immunosuppressive agents; and Stachylysin, which can lyse erythrocytes (destroy red blood cells). With all three groups present there is little wonder why mycotoxicosis (mycotoxin poisoning) caused by black mold can lead to severe degradation in human health. Black mold has also been linked to " sick building syndrome " , which describes situations in which the health and comfort of people is effected by time spent in a certain building or room, where there is no obvious cause. Unless you experience symptoms that seem to be location dependant you probably don't need to worry too much for the time being. However, mold spores, which are benign by themselves and found practically everywhere, can propogate wildly active colonies when exposed to an amply moist environment. This effect is very common with flooding, which is why it is of pressing importance to ensure that a flooded house is cleaned up and dried out thoroughly before mold is allowed to proliferate. In the case that you are experiencing chronic symptoms in your home or work environment, the best course of action is to contact a professional that knows how to seek and eliminate fungal growth. Another health concern with mold and fungus stems from foam. Polyurethane foam, which is the type of foam commonly used in cushion and bedding applications, can be broken down by mold into volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are toxic. Dr T. Sprott, OBE, Msc, PhD, FNZIC, In New Zealand, discovered that this was a major contributor to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), where used crib mattresses were the culprits (2). Though the effects in adults usually go unidentified you may find that you feel better when you aren't exposed to them. The solution for crib mattresses was a simple layer of plastic completely covering the entire thing, not so practical for adults. This is a major reason not to buy used mattresses, which often have mold already growing in them, besides the other obvious factors (what did those previous owners do in that bed?). To prevent mold from building up in your mattress it is good to use a mattress pad which is washable and will absorb most of the moisture that would be going to perpetuate mold growth. It is best, however, to simply buy a mattress that doesn't create a suitable environment for mold or other microbes, such as latex. Latex is a natural product that provides a superb sleep system that will keep your bed free of mold and other harmful microbes. Mold will always be around, and will always be a health concern. It is by familiarizing ourselves with mold, it's indications, and it's environment that we are able to minimize the risk that it will effect our lives. Resources: (1) http://www.apsnet.org/online/feature/stachybotrys/ (2) http://www.pnc.com.au/~cafmr/sprott/ Ben Hermsen is a research engineer for http://www.foamsource.com where he champions the benefits of natural latex bedding for the health of our families and our environment. Quote
Guest guest Posted February 8, 2006 Report Posted February 8, 2006 I have a used queen bed in spare room from my brotherinlaw. Yuck!! I really want that bed out of there b/c it can't be slept in b/c bunnies live in there and that is their turf. They love under it tho but I could have a friend build them a playhouse/hide place. I can't afford to keep buying stuff like another cover for that bed and springs ETC. I'm still looking into a better air purifier and if worth spending $$$$$ on it. My stupid not so old Whirlpool washer leaked again with superwash. Anybody else do that? I guess I should call whoever repairs washers to look at that and my kitchen sink. The mold guy said he saw issues at kitchen sink and washer area under the house. I guess some water stain marks. Not sure what is up in the wall where bathtub spout leaked before. That stupid caulking doesn't last long around there and I just have been putting it over the old. Next time might scrape it off. Rhonda --- In , " tigerpaw2c " <tigerpaw2c@...> wrote: > > Mold and Illness > > February 08, 2006 > > by Ben Hermsen > > http://www.dailyindia.com/show/1650.php > > > > > Molds and fungus are nearby virtually everywhere we go. For the most > part these molds are relatively innocuous. Certain molds, however, > do pose substantial health risks. According to Berlin D. , > Ph.D., department of plant pathology, North Dakota State University, > Stachybotrys Chartarum or " black mold " is the most prominent and > notorious of the toxic molds (1). > Black mold is a heavy producer of mycotoxins (toxins created by a > fungus). These mycotoxins cause a wide range of symptoms from > headaches to flu-like symptoms, and chronic illnesses. The > mycotoxins created by black mold are numerous, but fall into 3 main > categories: Macrocyclic Trichothecenes, which inhibit protein > synthesis; Phenylspirodrimanes and Cyclsporine, which are strong > immunosuppressive agents; and Stachylysin, which can lyse > erythrocytes (destroy red blood cells). With all three groups > present there is little wonder why mycotoxicosis (mycotoxin > poisoning) caused by black mold can lead to severe degradation in > human health. > > Black mold has also been linked to " sick building syndrome " , which > describes situations in which the health and comfort of people is > effected by time spent in a certain building or room, where there is > no obvious cause. > > Unless you experience symptoms that seem to be location dependant > you probably don't need to worry too much for the time being. > However, mold spores, which are benign by themselves and found > practically everywhere, can propogate wildly active colonies when > exposed to an amply moist environment. > > This effect is very common with flooding, which is why it is of > pressing importance to ensure that a flooded house is cleaned up and > dried out thoroughly before mold is allowed to proliferate. In the > case that you are experiencing chronic symptoms in your home or work > environment, the best course of action is to contact a professional > that knows how to seek and eliminate fungal growth. > > Another health concern with mold and fungus stems from foam. > Polyurethane foam, which is the type of foam commonly used in > cushion and bedding applications, can be broken down by mold into > volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are toxic. > > Dr T. Sprott, OBE, Msc, PhD, FNZIC, In New Zealand, discovered > that this was a major contributor to sudden infant death syndrome > (SIDS), where used crib mattresses were the culprits (2). Though the > effects in adults usually go unidentified you may find that you feel > better when you aren't exposed to them. > > The solution for crib mattresses was a simple layer of plastic > completely covering the entire thing, not so practical for adults. > This is a major reason not to buy used mattresses, which often have > mold already growing in them, besides the other obvious factors > (what did those previous owners do in that bed?). > > To prevent mold from building up in your mattress it is good to use > a mattress pad which is washable and will absorb most of the > moisture that would be going to perpetuate mold growth. It is best, > however, to simply buy a mattress that doesn't create a suitable > environment for mold or other microbes, such as latex. > > Latex is a natural product that provides a superb sleep system that > will keep your bed free of mold and other harmful microbes. Mold > will always be around, and will always be a health concern. It is by > familiarizing ourselves with mold, it's indications, and it's > environment that we are able to minimize the risk that it will > effect our lives. > > Resources: > > (1) http://www.apsnet.org/online/feature/stachybotrys/ > > (2) http://www.pnc.com.au/~cafmr/sprott/ > > > Ben Hermsen is a research engineer for http://www.foamsource.com > where he champions the benefits of natural latex bedding for the > health of our families and our environment. > Quote
Guest guest Posted February 8, 2006 Report Posted February 8, 2006 I definatly sugjest getting the old stuff off as much of a pain as it is. You can get a pretty goo grade caulk not very expensive that will last as long as the surfase is clean and dry it will last. Leaks under a tub, well you know what that hides.... Rhonda <rhondaleokitty@...> wrote: I have a used queen bed in spare room from my brotherinlaw. Yuck!! I really want that bed out of there b/c it can't be slept in b/c bunnies live in there and that is their turf. They love under it tho but I could have a friend build them a playhouse/hide place. I can't afford to keep buying stuff like another cover for that bed and springs ETC. I'm still looking into a better air purifier and if worth spending $$$$$ on it. My stupid not so old Whirlpool washer leaked again with superwash. Anybody else do that? I guess I should call whoever repairs washers to look at that and my kitchen sink. The mold guy said he saw issues at kitchen sink and washer area under the house. I guess some water stain marks. Not sure what is up in the wall where bathtub spout leaked before. That stupid caulking doesn't last long around there and I just have been putting it over the old. Next time might scrape it off. Rhonda --- In , " tigerpaw2c " <tigerpaw2c@...> wrote: > > Mold and Illness > > February 08, 2006 > > by Ben Hermsen > > http://www.dailyindia.com/show/1650.php > > > > > Molds and fungus are nearby virtually everywhere we go. For the most > part these molds are relatively innocuous. Certain molds, however, > do pose substantial health risks. According to Berlin D. , > Ph.D., department of plant pathology, North Dakota State University, > Stachybotrys Chartarum or " black mold " is the most prominent and > notorious of the toxic molds (1). > Black mold is a heavy producer of mycotoxins (toxins created by a > fungus). These mycotoxins cause a wide range of symptoms from > headaches to flu-like symptoms, and chronic illnesses. The > mycotoxins created by black mold are numerous, but fall into 3 main > categories: Macrocyclic Trichothecenes, which inhibit protein > synthesis; Phenylspirodrimanes and Cyclsporine, which are strong > immunosuppressive agents; and Stachylysin, which can lyse > erythrocytes (destroy red blood cells). With all three groups > present there is little wonder why mycotoxicosis (mycotoxin > poisoning) caused by black mold can lead to severe degradation in > human health. > > Black mold has also been linked to " sick building syndrome " , which > describes situations in which the health and comfort of people is > effected by time spent in a certain building or room, where there is > no obvious cause. > > Unless you experience symptoms that seem to be location dependant > you probably don't need to worry too much for the time being. > However, mold spores, which are benign by themselves and found > practically everywhere, can propogate wildly active colonies when > exposed to an amply moist environment. > > This effect is very common with flooding, which is why it is of > pressing importance to ensure that a flooded house is cleaned up and > dried out thoroughly before mold is allowed to proliferate. In the > case that you are experiencing chronic symptoms in your home or work > environment, the best course of action is to contact a professional > that knows how to seek and eliminate fungal growth. > > Another health concern with mold and fungus stems from foam. > Polyurethane foam, which is the type of foam commonly used in > cushion and bedding applications, can be broken down by mold into > volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are toxic. > > Dr T. Sprott, OBE, Msc, PhD, FNZIC, In New Zealand, discovered > that this was a major contributor to sudden infant death syndrome > (SIDS), where used crib mattresses were the culprits (2). Though the > effects in adults usually go unidentified you may find that you feel > better when you aren't exposed to them. > > The solution for crib mattresses was a simple layer of plastic > completely covering the entire thing, not so practical for adults. > This is a major reason not to buy used mattresses, which often have > mold already growing in them, besides the other obvious factors > (what did those previous owners do in that bed?). > > To prevent mold from building up in your mattress it is good to use > a mattress pad which is washable and will absorb most of the > moisture that would be going to perpetuate mold growth. It is best, > however, to simply buy a mattress that doesn't create a suitable > environment for mold or other microbes, such as latex. > > Latex is a natural product that provides a superb sleep system that > will keep your bed free of mold and other harmful microbes. Mold > will always be around, and will always be a health concern. It is by > familiarizing ourselves with mold, it's indications, and it's > environment that we are able to minimize the risk that it will > effect our lives. > > Resources: > > (1) http://www.apsnet.org/online/feature/stachybotrys/ > > (2) http://www.pnc.com.au/~cafmr/sprott/ > > > Ben Hermsen is a research engineer for http://www.foamsource.com > where he champions the benefits of natural latex bedding for the > health of our families and our environment. > FAIR USE NOTICE: Quote
Guest guest Posted February 9, 2006 Report Posted February 9, 2006 I bought new pillows last night and more pillow covers. The Brand of the mattress cover and pillow cover is Allergy Relief and waterproof. Says Fabric 100% polyproplene Film 100% polyethylene. Looked at the foam stuff you can put over mattress b/c I had one I threw out. Not sure it will fit in the cover tho but it said polyurethene and can catch fire. I don't think either of that is a good thing. Bought a vinyl cover for the box springs but been told not to use vinyl. Guess I will get the other type cover for box springs. I just feel like there is no getting away from the toxins but I'm trying and plan to wash clothes some this weekend. I haven't been able to wipe everything off yet either and I'm just cross contaminating what I do try to clean and get new. People keep telling me to move but that won't help if I take my things it's no different than staying where i am. I keep hearing " You don't know that mold is doing what has happened to you " . I tell them you have to be a total idiot to not know. If it won't the toxins then why did I get worse with heat and air scrubbers???? I won't feeling all the crap I do now before that. Seems my shower drips and hits the spout area at times and that is why it won't stay. Yes, the caulking I have says last a year but it doens't. When I had the leak before, not telling how long so could be mold from that in wall etc. Then it seems there must be a slow leak with kitchen sink and then the washer on superwash. Why the heck would a washing leak water from beneath on superwash? Rhonda > > > > Mold and Illness > > > > February 08, 2006 > > > > by Ben Hermsen > > > > http://www.dailyindia.com/show/1650.php > > > > > > > > > > Molds and fungus are nearby virtually everywhere we go. For the > most > > part these molds are relatively innocuous. Certain molds, however, > > do pose substantial health risks. According to Berlin D. , > > Ph.D., department of plant pathology, North Dakota State > University, > > Stachybotrys Chartarum or " black mold " is the most prominent and > > notorious of the toxic molds (1). > > Black mold is a heavy producer of mycotoxins (toxins created by a > > fungus). These mycotoxins cause a wide range of symptoms from > > headaches to flu-like symptoms, and chronic illnesses. The > > mycotoxins created by black mold are numerous, but fall into 3 main > > categories: Macrocyclic Trichothecenes, which inhibit protein > > synthesis; Phenylspirodrimanes and Cyclsporine, which are strong > > immunosuppressive agents; and Stachylysin, which can lyse > > erythrocytes (destroy red blood cells). With all three groups > > present there is little wonder why mycotoxicosis (mycotoxin > > poisoning) caused by black mold can lead to severe degradation in > > human health. > > > > Black mold has also been linked to " sick building syndrome " , which > > describes situations in which the health and comfort of people is > > effected by time spent in a certain building or room, where there > is > > no obvious cause. > > > > Unless you experience symptoms that seem to be location dependant > > you probably don't need to worry too much for the time being. > > However, mold spores, which are benign by themselves and found > > practically everywhere, can propogate wildly active colonies when > > exposed to an amply moist environment. > > > > This effect is very common with flooding, which is why it is of > > pressing importance to ensure that a flooded house is cleaned up > and > > dried out thoroughly before mold is allowed to proliferate. In the > > case that you are experiencing chronic symptoms in your home or > work > > environment, the best course of action is to contact a professional > > that knows how to seek and eliminate fungal growth. > > > > Another health concern with mold and fungus stems from foam. > > Polyurethane foam, which is the type of foam commonly used in > > cushion and bedding applications, can be broken down by mold into > > volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are toxic. > > > > Dr T. Sprott, OBE, Msc, PhD, FNZIC, In New Zealand, > discovered > > that this was a major contributor to sudden infant death syndrome > > (SIDS), where used crib mattresses were the culprits (2). Though > the > > effects in adults usually go unidentified you may find that you > feel > > better when you aren't exposed to them. > > > > The solution for crib mattresses was a simple layer of plastic > > completely covering the entire thing, not so practical for adults. > > This is a major reason not to buy used mattresses, which often have > > mold already growing in them, besides the other obvious factors > > (what did those previous owners do in that bed?). > > > > To prevent mold from building up in your mattress it is good to use > > a mattress pad which is washable and will absorb most of the > > moisture that would be going to perpetuate mold growth. It is best, > > however, to simply buy a mattress that doesn't create a suitable > > environment for mold or other microbes, such as latex. > > > > Latex is a natural product that provides a superb sleep system that > > will keep your bed free of mold and other harmful microbes. Mold > > will always be around, and will always be a health concern. It is > by > > familiarizing ourselves with mold, it's indications, and it's > > environment that we are able to minimize the risk that it will > > effect our lives. > > > > Resources: > > > > (1) http://www.apsnet.org/online/feature/stachybotrys/ > > > > (2) http://www.pnc.com.au/~cafmr/sprott/ > > > > > > Ben Hermsen is a research engineer for http://www.foamsource.com > > where he champions the benefits of natural latex bedding for the > > health of our families and our environment. > > > > > > > > > > > > FAIR USE NOTICE: > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted February 10, 2006 Report Posted February 10, 2006 On superwash because it fills the tub up to almost extremem campacity, any imbalance and sometimes with none water wil overflow the tub. If you have not already done so put one of those washer pans underneath then you can atleast shopvac out the spillage. as far as the tub, if I understand properly there is also pans installed under tubs wich of course you cannot get to but any leaks will sit under there and well, grow stuff... Again the silicone II recomendation mentioned in earlier reply... Rhonda <rhondaleokitty@...> wrote: I bought new pillows last night and more pillow covers. The Brand of the mattress cover and pillow cover is Allergy Relief and waterproof. Says Fabric 100% polyproplene Film 100% polyethylene. Looked at the foam stuff you can put over mattress b/c I had one I threw out. Not sure it will fit in the cover tho but it said polyurethene and can catch fire. I don't think either of that is a good thing. Bought a vinyl cover for the box springs but been told not to use vinyl. Guess I will get the other type cover for box springs. I just feel like there is no getting away from the toxins but I'm trying and plan to wash clothes some this weekend. I haven't been able to wipe everything off yet either and I'm just cross contaminating what I do try to clean and get new. People keep telling me to move but that won't help if I take my things it's no different than staying where i am. I keep hearing " You don't know that mold is doing what has happened to you " . I tell them you have to be a total idiot to not know. If it won't the toxins then why did I get worse with heat and air scrubbers???? I won't feeling all the crap I do now before that. Seems my shower drips and hits the spout area at times and that is why it won't stay. Yes, the caulking I have says last a year but it doens't. When I had the leak before, not telling how long so could be mold from that in wall etc. Then it seems there must be a slow leak with kitchen sink and then the washer on superwash. Why the heck would a washing leak water from beneath on superwash? Rhonda > > > > Mold and Illness > > > > February 08, 2006 > > > > by Ben Hermsen > > > > http://www.dailyindia.com/show/1650.php > > > > > > > > > > Molds and fungus are nearby virtually everywhere we go. For the > most > > part these molds are relatively innocuous. Certain molds, however, > > do pose substantial health risks. According to Berlin D. , > > Ph.D., department of plant pathology, North Dakota State > University, > > Stachybotrys Chartarum or " black mold " is the most prominent and > > notorious of the toxic molds (1). > > Black mold is a heavy producer of mycotoxins (toxins created by a > > fungus). These mycotoxins cause a wide range of symptoms from > > headaches to flu-like symptoms, and chronic illnesses. The > > mycotoxins created by black mold are numerous, but fall into 3 main > > categories: Macrocyclic Trichothecenes, which inhibit protein > > synthesis; Phenylspirodrimanes and Cyclsporine, which are strong > > immunosuppressive agents; and Stachylysin, which can lyse > > erythrocytes (destroy red blood cells). With all three groups > > present there is little wonder why mycotoxicosis (mycotoxin > > poisoning) caused by black mold can lead to severe degradation in > > human health. > > > > Black mold has also been linked to " sick building syndrome " , which > > describes situations in which the health and comfort of people is > > effected by time spent in a certain building or room, where there > is > > no obvious cause. > > > > Unless you experience symptoms that seem to be location dependant > > you probably don't need to worry too much for the time being. > > However, mold spores, which are benign by themselves and found > > practically everywhere, can propogate wildly active colonies when > > exposed to an amply moist environment. > > > > This effect is very common with flooding, which is why it is of > > pressing importance to ensure that a flooded house is cleaned up > and > > dried out thoroughly before mold is allowed to proliferate. In the > > case that you are experiencing chronic symptoms in your home or > work > > environment, the best course of action is to contact a professional > > that knows how to seek and eliminate fungal growth. > > > > Another health concern with mold and fungus stems from foam. > > Polyurethane foam, which is the type of foam commonly used in > > cushion and bedding applications, can be broken down by mold into > > volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are toxic. > > > > Dr T. Sprott, OBE, Msc, PhD, FNZIC, In New Zealand, > discovered > > that this was a major contributor to sudden infant death syndrome > > (SIDS), where used crib mattresses were the culprits (2). Though > the > > effects in adults usually go unidentified you may find that you > feel > > better when you aren't exposed to them. > > > > The solution for crib mattresses was a simple layer of plastic > > completely covering the entire thing, not so practical for adults. > > This is a major reason not to buy used mattresses, which often have > > mold already growing in them, besides the other obvious factors > > (what did those previous owners do in that bed?). > > > > To prevent mold from building up in your mattress it is good to use > > a mattress pad which is washable and will absorb most of the > > moisture that would be going to perpetuate mold growth. It is best, > > however, to simply buy a mattress that doesn't create a suitable > > environment for mold or other microbes, such as latex. > > > > Latex is a natural product that provides a superb sleep system that > > will keep your bed free of mold and other harmful microbes. Mold > > will always be around, and will always be a health concern. It is > by > > familiarizing ourselves with mold, it's indications, and it's > > environment that we are able to minimize the risk that it will > > effect our lives. > > > > Resources: > > > > (1) http://www.apsnet.org/online/feature/stachybotrys/ > > > > (2) http://www.pnc.com.au/~cafmr/sprott/ > > > > > > Ben Hermsen is a research engineer for http://www.foamsource.com > > where he champions the benefits of natural latex bedding for the > > health of our families and our environment. > > > > > > > > > > > > FAIR USE NOTICE: > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted February 10, 2006 Report Posted February 10, 2006 <jenbooks13@...> wrote: > I don't have a mold problem,< I wonder? Have you accompanied a " mold responder " into a known Stachy infested sick building to compare initiation of a response? I sure wish I could take you to Truckee and North Tahoe High school and find out. Nobody who dropped there believes it is mold whch is having this effect. It all seems impossible, improbable and contrary to science and common sense. Even the Truckee Teacher cluster disputes my craziness and Dr has told them to " stay away " from me. The teachers at NT are a bit more focused on this, because their illness corresponded to the exposure and leak in such a specific spot. But even they are baffled by the size of the colony immediately adjacent to their stations: " About the size of a baseball " . I never made any claims that mold could accomplish such a thing all by itself, only that when these people are re-exposed to unbelievably slight exposures to this same toxin, in the same place where they got sick - they drop in their tracks. Just like me. It's a fairly easy thing to test. But it seemed so impossible that it took twenty years for a doctor like Shoemaker to come along and do it. And it looks like this is the real deal. - Quote
Guest guest Posted February 10, 2006 Report Posted February 10, 2006 , I agree on the part when you go into the same place you were exposed and how it drops you!!!!!!!! Same here....I can tell in any place that I go that has mold growing and especially if it is Stachybotrys. ( even if it can't be seen) Marcie erikmoldwarrior <erikmoldwarrior@...> wrote: <jenbooks13@...> wrote: > I don't have a mold problem,< I wonder? Have you accompanied a " mold responder " into a known Stachy infested sick building to compare initiation of a response? I sure wish I could take you to Truckee and North Tahoe High school and find out. Nobody who dropped there believes it is mold whch is having this effect. It all seems impossible, improbable and contrary to science and common sense. Even the Truckee Teacher cluster disputes my craziness and Dr has told them to " stay away " from me. The teachers at NT are a bit more focused on this, because their illness corresponded to the exposure and leak in such a specific spot. But even they are baffled by the size of the colony immediately adjacent to their stations: " About the size of a baseball " . I never made any claims that mold could accomplish such a thing all by itself, only that when these people are re-exposed to unbelievably slight exposures to this same toxin, in the same place where they got sick - they drop in their tracks. Just like me. It's a fairly easy thing to test. But it seemed so impossible that it took twenty years for a doctor like Shoemaker to come along and do it. And it looks like this is the real deal. - FAIR USE NOTICE: Quote
Guest guest Posted October 8, 2008 Report Posted October 8, 2008 --- In , " tigerpaw2c " <tigerpaw2c@...> wrote: > > Mold and Illness > > February 08, 2006 > > by Ben Hermsen > > http://www.dailyindia.com/show/1650.php > > > > > Molds and fungus are nearby virtually everywhere we go. For the most > part these molds are relatively innocuous. Certain molds, however, > do pose substantial health risks. According to Berlin D. , > Ph.D., department of plant pathology, North Dakota State University, > Stachybotrys Chartarum or " black mold " is the most prominent and > notorious of the toxic molds (1). > Black mold is a heavy producer of mycotoxins (toxins created by a > fungus). These mycotoxins cause a wide range of symptoms from > headaches to flu-like symptoms, and chronic illnesses. The > mycotoxins created by black mold are numerous, but fall into 3 main > categories: Macrocyclic Trichothecenes, which inhibit protein > synthesis; Phenylspirodrimanes and Cyclsporine, which are strong > immunosuppressive agents; and Stachylysin, which can lyse > erythrocytes (destroy red blood cells). With all three groups > present there is little wonder why mycotoxicosis (mycotoxin > poisoning) caused by black mold can lead to severe degradation in > human health. > > Black mold has also been linked to " sick building syndrome " , which > describes situations in which the health and comfort of people is > effected by time spent in a certain building or room, where there is > no obvious cause. > > Unless you experience symptoms that seem to be location dependant > you probably don't need to worry too much for the time being. > However, mold spores, which are benign by themselves and found > practically everywhere, can propogate wildly active colonies when > exposed to an amply moist environment. > > This effect is very common with flooding, which is why it is of > pressing importance to ensure that a flooded house is cleaned up and > dried out thoroughly before mold is allowed to proliferate. In the > case that you are experiencing chronic symptoms in your home or work > environment, the best course of action is to contact a professional > that knows how to seek and eliminate fungal growth. > > Another health concern with mold and fungus stems from foam. > Polyurethane foam, which is the type of foam commonly used in > cushion and bedding applications, can be broken down by mold into > volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are toxic. > > Dr T. Sprott, OBE, Msc, PhD, FNZIC, In New Zealand, discovered > that this was a major contributor to sudden infant death syndrome > (SIDS), where used crib mattresses were the culprits (2). Though the > effects in adults usually go unidentified you may find that you feel > better when you aren't exposed to them. > > The solution for crib mattresses was a simple layer of plastic > completely covering the entire thing, not so practical for adults. > This is a major reason not to buy used mattresses, which often have > mold already growing in them, besides the other obvious factors > (what did those previous owners do in that bed?). > > To prevent mold from building up in your mattress it is good to use > a mattress pad which is washable and will absorb most of the > moisture that would be going to perpetuate mold growth. It is best, > however, to simply buy a mattress that doesn't create a suitable > environment for mold or other microbes, such as latex. > > Latex is a natural product that provides a superb sleep system that > will keep your bed free of mold and other harmful microbes. Mold > will always be around, and will always be a health concern. It is by > familiarizing ourselves with mold, it's indications, and it's > environment that we are able to minimize the risk that it will > effect our lives. > > Resources: > > (1) http://www.apsnet.org/online/feature/stachybotrys/ > > (2) http://www.pnc.com.au/~cafmr/sprott/ > > > Ben Hermsen is a research engineer for http://www.foamsource.com > where he champions the benefits of natural latex bedding for the > health of our families and our environment. > Quote
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