Mold

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Mold or mould refers to a type of fungus that includes thousands of species and is found virtually everywhere on Earth. Molds are a large and taxonomically diverse number of fungal species in which the growth of hyphae results in discoloration and a fuzzy appearance, especially on food.

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Molds are characterized by their ability to grow and reproduce through the production of spores, which are capable of surviving in harsh conditions that would otherwise be inhospitable. Molds can be found in various colors, including blue, green, yellow, brown, gray, black, or white.

Habitat[edit | edit source]

Molds are ubiquitous in nature and are commonly found in indoor and outdoor environments. They can be found in soil, plants, and even in the air. Molds thrive in moist and warm conditions, although they can also survive in dry and cold environments.

Health effects[edit | edit source]

Exposure to molds can lead to a variety of health effects, depending on the individual and the type and amount of mold present. Some people may experience allergic reactions, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash. In some cases, molds can cause more severe health effects, such as asthma attacks, infections, and toxic effects.

Prevention and control[edit | edit source]

Preventing mold growth involves controlling the moisture level in the environment. This can be achieved by fixing leaks, reducing humidity, and ensuring proper ventilation. If mold is already present, it can be removed using a variety of methods, including cleaning with detergent and water, using bleach solution, or hiring a professional mold remediation service.

See also[edit | edit source]


Mold Resources

Find a healthcare provider anywhere in the world quickly and easily!

Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Bonnu, Prab R. Tumpati, MD