Itchy, Watery Eyes? It Might not be the Ragweed!

As we get close to the end of the summer, most of us attribute itchy, watery eyes to the joys of seasonal allergies. More specifically, we blame them on the ragweed. That’s fair enough—this plant spreads like wildfire in Southern Ontario, and it’s the cause of a lot of misery.

However, a quick glance at the Weather Network’s Pollen Report for Toronto indicates that as of today (August 4, 2015), there’s no substantial ragweed activity at all this season. In fact, pollen counts for most known allergens are pretty low.

So what exactly is the cause of all this allergic misery? Would it surprise you to learn that there’s a good chance it’s mould?

Allergy Symptoms Related to Mould

According to the Health Canada guidelines on mould, there are substantial links between mould and an increased risk of respiratory difficulties. These challenges include, but are not limited to, irritation of the eyes and nose, persistent coughing, and wheezing. Some other allergic symptoms like hives have been anecdotally associated with mould.

Those who already have compromised immune systems are most susceptible to the harmful effects of mould. Asthmatics can experience an increased risk of attacks when exposed to mould, even in small quantities and for short periods of time. Like most allergens, there are varying sensitivities to mould. This can help explain why sometimes other members of the household are unaffected.

What Can Be Done?

If you’re investigating the source of an unknown allergy, and you suspect mould may be to blame, there’s no harm in doing what you can to prevent the growth of mould in the home.
First and foremost, mould thrives in damp areas with poor ventilation. When the evenings start to cool off a little, open the windows and let the breeze flow through the house.

Consider keeping a window or the patio door open while you’re cooking, to allow steam to escape. If that doesn’t work for you, be sure to run the exhaust fan during meal preparation – every time, without fail.

Remember to turn on the exhaust fan during your morning shower. While you’re thinking of the exhaust fan, have a look to see if it could use a good cleaning.
Anything you can do to reduce moisture in your home will help make it more difficult for mould colonies to grow.

Professional Mould Removal Services in Toronto

Obviously you need to see your doctor before self-diagnosing mould as the source of your problem. If your doctor does agree that your symptoms may be attributable to mould, attempting to remove even a small area of mould on your own when you are sensitive to its effects is a bad idea.

Engaging the services of a professional mould removal company will help to address the problem of mould in your home quickly, efficiently and safely. Once your home is free of this environmental hazard, you can turn all your ire back to the ragweed. The season isn’t here yet, but it’s coming!

26 Holtby Ave.
Brampton, ON
L6X 2M1

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