Tag Archives: Mold Info

Top Mold Questions Answered Part Two

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Top Mold Questions Answered

Top Mold Questions Answered

Over the last few years, numerous stories about mold and its effects have made the rounds. How do you separate fact from fiction? This is the second in a series of blog posts in which our Manhattan mold removal experts clear up the confusion with answers to your top mold questions.

1. What’s the difference between mold and mildew?

Mildew and mold are both types of fungus. Mildew is a flat growth species, generally white or gray in color, that develops on shower walls, windowsills and other moisture points. Mold is made up of microscopic filaments known as hyphae. It can be black or green in appearance and grows on organic materials such as wood, fabric and paper as well as building walls, ceilings and floors.

2. What does mold smell like?

Mold produces a substance called microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs). When these compounds are released into the air, they generate the powerful musty smell associated with mold.

3. Is it necessary to sample or test for mold?

There are no federal standards defining what constitutes unacceptable mold levels. Removal should be done whenever there are visible signs of mold growth. Unfortunately, mold infestations don’t always develop in plain sight. Have Stern Mold’s experienced technicians conduct an inspection if you suspect hidden mold.

Get Peace of Mind with Effective Manhattan Mold Removal

Mold problems won’t go away on their own. Our non-invasive and eco-friendly MoldExterm treatment can usually be completed in one day. Contact Stern Mold to learn more.

Posted in Mold Information, News, NJ Mold Removal, NYC Mold Removal

Mold 101: How Mold Poisons Your Body

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Mold and Your Health

By definition, a biotoxin is literally a poison produced by a living organism such as mold. Once a biotoxin is ingested into your system, it triggers a chain of processes that can lead to a variety of serious health problems.

How Biotoxins Evade the Immune System

Your body’s immune system serves as the front line of defense against biotoxins and other foreign substances. In most cases, the immune system recognizes the biotoxin as an invader and proceeds to break it down and remove it via the liver.

Complications arise with individuals who don’t have a sufficient supply of HLA-DR, the gene that forms antibodies to target the biotoxin. At this point, the rogue biotoxin cells are free to travel throughout the body.

Biotoxin-Related Symptoms and Illnesses

As the biotoxin starts binding to surface receptors, it generates an inflammatory response which increases the level of cytokines. Resulting symptoms include headaches, fever and inability to concentrate.

The situation is compounded when cytokines begin binding to the receptors, which serves to suppress production of alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH). Low levels of MSH can cause development of the following symptoms:

  • Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
  • Gastrointestinal problems or “leaky gut” syndrome
  • Infections
  • Excessive thirst and frequent urination
  • High blood pressure

Safeguard Your Health with Effective Manhattan Mold Treatment

When exposure to mold continues, biotoxin-related illnesses can become chronic and more difficult to treat. Stern Mold uses a two-step process that provides safer, less invasive and more cost-effective Manhattan mold treatment than traditional remediation.

Contact us today to schedule a free inspection conducted by our cheerful and experienced Manhattan mold treatment technicians.

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Information, News

What Does the CDC Say About Mold Exposure

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Let Us Help Exterminate Your Mold Today!

Let Us Help Exterminate Your Mold Today!

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is an organization under the Department of Health and Human Services that is charged with fighting disease and other threats to public health. Here’s some valuable information they provide about mold and its effects.

Where is Mold Found?

Any warm, humid area can provide a potential breeding ground for mold. Outdoor mold is most commonly found growing on decomposing organic materials such as felled trees, while indoor mold generally occurs in damp, humid areas such as bathrooms and basements.

How Does Mold Affect People?

Mold can trigger allergic symptoms such as wheezing, sinus congestion and red, itchy eyes. People with serious allergies or preexisting lung conditions can experience fever, shortness of breath and other strong reactions.

How Can You Limit Exposure to Mold?

Mold needs moisture to survive, so humidity levels should be kept low and water leaks or floods should be cleaned up immediately. If you find an infestation in your home, you should arrange for professional mold remediation regardless of what type it may be.

Should You Seek Medical Assistance?

If you’ve had extensive exposure to mold, don’t take chances with your health. Consult your primary care physician, who will determine whether or not your symptoms are severe enough for a referral to an allergist or other specialist.

State-of-the-Art Mold Treatment in NYC and Northern NJ

As the CDC recommends, you shouldn’t attempt mold remediation on your own. Our friendly and professionally trained technicians will remove mold and take measures to prevent its return. Visit our website to learn more about our efficient, effective and eco-friendly MoldExterm process.

Posted in Mold Information, Mold Law