The colder months might mean we don't want to have a window open or use extractor fans in our homes for fear of losing that much-needed heat, but there could be an important reason why you should open a window in winter.
The damp or mould that can appear in your house can actually be detrimental to your health, so it might be worth investing in a dehumidifier if you can't quite face opening a window yet.
The NHS offers information about the causes of mould or damp and what impact it can have on people.
Can damp and mould affect my health?
According to the NHS Choices website, yes it can. This is because, if you have damp and mould, you're more likely to have or develop respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies or asthma. Damp and mould can also affect the immune system.
How does it affect your health?
Moulds produce allergens (substances that can cause an allergic reaction), irritants and, sometimes, toxic substances.
Inhaling or touching mould spores may cause an allergic reaction, such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and skin rash.
Moulds can also cause asthma attacks.
Who is affected?
Some people are more sensitive than others, including:
- babies and children;
- elderly people;
- those with existing skin problems, such as eczema;
- those with respiratory problems, such as allergies and asthma;
- those with a weakened immune system.
These people should stay away from damp and mould.
What are the causes of damp and mould
Mould and damp are caused by excess moisture. Moisture in buildings can be caused by leaking pipes, rising damp in basements or ground floors, or rain seeping in because of damage to the roof or around window frames.
A newly-built home may be damp if the water used when building it is still drying out – for example, in the plaster on the walls. Excess moisture indoors can also be caused by condensation.
If you have mould or damp, it's important to find out why you have excess moisture in your home.
When you know what's causing the damp, you can make sure your home is repaired or take steps to limit the moisture in the air. You may need to get a professional to remove mould for you - but, if it's only a small amount, you may be able to remove it yourself.
