Traditionally, you’ll see home service workers wearing dust masks when dealing with certain allergens. Your HVAC technician will likely wear one when they’re cleaning your ductwork. Doctors will wear these masks to avoid spreading germs. There’s something to be said about this inexpensive protective layer. But do dust masks protect against mold?
How Do Dust Masks Protect Against Allergens?
Dust masks protect against airborne allergens by acting as a shield or a dam for the spores. Allergens are really anything someone can be allergic to, but the most common airborne allergens include pollen, dust, grass, dander, and other miniscule debris. If the spores can’t access your respiratory system (the openings for which are your nose and mouth), then they can’t cause an allergic reaction in the airway.
But does that apply to mold?
Is Mold an Allergen?
Yes! While mold can be harmful to the respiratory system in general, mold can cause a specific allergic reaction for some people.
Mold can cause these reactions for anyone:
- Itchiness
- Wheezing
- Skin rashes
- Eye redness
- Coughing
- Sinus issues
- Watery eyes
For people who are allergic to mold, these are the separate reactions they can experience:
- Postnasal drip
- Deep coughing
- Expanded itchiness (into the nose and throat)
- Dry skin, scaly appearance
- Sneezing
- Tightness in the chest
- Nasal congestion
In both cases, respiratory issues are a side effect of mold, which means that a dust mask can protect against mold – to a certain degree.
Do Dust Masks Protect Against Mold?
Yes, dust masks protect against mold, but only to a point.
Dust masks offer some respiratory protection, meaning that you won’t breath in the spores, as the mask will block them from getting into your lungs. However, dust masks will not protect against physical contact with mold. Your skin can experience an adverse reaction, such as a rash, itchiness, hives, or discoloration.
What’s more: If you have mold in your home, a dust mask will not be a long-term solution. The best thing to do if you believe there is mold in your home, particularly in your ventilation system, is call a specialist.
There’s Mold in My Home! What Should I Do?
If you know or suspect that there’s mold in your home, the safest next step is to contact a licensed mold remediation specialist. RestoPros is here to help. We’re the only mold remediation company that has a registered nurse and a safety officer as full-time staff members. We take safety very seriously: At every job site, we set up first aid kits, eye washing stations, and fire extinguishers.
Take your life back by restoring your peace of mind. Get 24/7 emergency mold removal services from RestoPros! Call 855-587-3786 to schedule an appointment with one of our professionals today!