Mold spores float throughout the house, forming new colonies where they land. Mold, mildew, fungi, and bacteria are often found in areas of the home that have high humidity levels, such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms or basements. Dust mites thrive on dead human skin cells and in bedding, carpeting and upholstery. When these areas are disturbed during vacuuming, making beds or walking on carpet, the dust particles become airborne. The same is true of animal dander.
Biological pollutants can cause allergic reactions.
Symptoms often include watery eyes, runny nose and sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing, headache, dizziness and fatigue. Dust mites have been identified as the single most important trigger for asthma attacks. Prevent mold growth by keeping basements, bathrooms and other rooms clean and dry. Use a disinfectant to clean surfaces that have mold on them. Humidifiers, dehumidifiers and air conditioning condensing units should be regularly cleaned with a disinfectant such as chlorine bleach.