Mould reduction home

Overview

Mould (also spelled mold) is a type of fungus that grows indoors in damp, humid, or poorly ventilated areas. Having mould in your home can affect your health, especially your breathing and allergies. This article explains how to reduce mould at home to prevent health problems.

Yes, mould is a common problem in homes, especially in areas with high humidity, poor ventilation, or after water damage. Many homes have some mould, but it can become a health concern when moisture is not controlled.

Anyone can be affected by mould in the home, but people with allergies, asthma, weakened immune systems, chronic lung conditions, and very young children or older adults are more likely to have symptoms.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing and coughing
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Skin rash or irritation
• Headaches

Symptoms in children

• Worsening of asthma symptoms
• Frequent cold-like symptoms (congestion, sneezing)
• Red, itchy eyes
• Eczema flare-ups

Symptoms in older adults

• Increased risk of respiratory infections like bronchitis
• Worsening of chronic lung conditions such as COPD
• Fatigue and feeling unwell

Causes

Main causes

• Excess moisture from leaks in roofs, pipes, or windows
• High humidity levels (above 60%) in the home
• Poor ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas
• Condensation on cold surfaces like walls and windows
• Flooding or water damage that is not dried quickly

Risk factors

• Living in a humid climate or a rainy area
• Living in an older home with poor insulation or dampness
• Having a basement or crawl space that is damp
• Using humidifiers or not using exhaust fans
• Recent water damage or flooding

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You or a family member has severe breathing problems or signs of a severe allergic reaction

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have ongoing allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes) that do not improve with over-the-counter remedies
• Asthma symptoms are getting worse or you need to use your inhaler more often
• You have a chronic cough, sinus infections, or frequent respiratory infections
• You suspect mould in your home and have health concerns

Diagnosis

A doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, your home environment, and any history of allergies or asthma. They may also do tests to see if mould is causing your symptoms.

Tests that may be done

• Skin prick test: A small amount of mould allergen is placed on your skin to see if you react.
• Blood test (specific IgE): Checks for antibodies to common moulds.
• Lung function tests (spirometry): Measures how well your lungs are working, especially if you have asthma or COPD.

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor may also suggest inspecting your home for visible mould or moisture problems. You might be asked to check areas like basements, bathrooms, and around windows. The diagnosis often focuses on linking your symptoms to mould exposure.

Treatment

The main treatment is to remove the mould and fix the moisture problem. Medical treatment helps with symptoms, but the best way to get better is to make your home environment healthier.

Self-care at home

• Find and fix the source of moisture: repair leaks, dry wet areas within 24-48 hours.
• Improve ventilation: use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, open windows when weather allows.
• Clean small areas (less than 1 square metre) of mould yourself: scrub with soap and water, then dry thoroughly. Wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection.
• Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms to keep humidity below 50%.
• Avoid carpet in bathrooms and basements where mould can grow.

Medical treatments

Doctors may recommend over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, or bronchodilator inhalers (for asthma). These help manage allergy and breathing symptoms. No specific brand names or doses are listed here. Always follow your doctor's advice.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not usually needed for mould-related health problems. In very rare cases, surgery may be required for fungal infections in the sinuses or lungs, which are serious conditions treated by specialists.

Living with this condition

Keep your home as clean and dry as possible. Check regularly for any new signs of dampness or mould. Use exhaust fans when cooking or showering. Wipe down wet surfaces. If you have allergies, consider keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons and using air purifiers with HEPA filters.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid storing items in damp basements or closets.
• Use mould-resistant paints and materials when renovating.
• Keep indoor plants healthy—overwatered soil can grow mould.
• Dry clothes outdoors or use a well-ventilated dryer.
• Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water around your home's foundation.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports your immune system. There is no special diet for mould exposure, but staying hydrated and eating a variety of nutrients can help your body handle allergies better. Exercise is good for your lungs, but avoid exercising in damp or mouldy areas.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with mould can be stressful and worrying. You might feel anxious about your health or frustrated by the effort needed to fix the problem. It is normal to feel this way. Talk to your doctor, family, or friends. If you feel overwhelmed, ask a healthcare professional about support for anxiety.

Prevention

Yes, by controlling moisture: fix leaks promptly, use ventilation, keep humidity low, and dry up spills quickly. Regular inspection and maintenance can prevent mould from becoming a problem.

Complications

If left untreated

• Worsening of asthma and allergies
• Repeated respiratory infections like sinusitis or bronchitis
• Chronic inflammation of the airways
• In rare cases, serious lung infections (aspergillosis) in people with very weak immune systems

Long-term outlook

With proper mould reduction and treatment of symptoms, most people feel better within weeks. Your home can become a healthy place again. Taking action early gives the best results, and many people manage well by keeping their homes dry and clean.

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