• Understanding Asbestosis

    Asbestosis is one reason why you might need to call an asbestos removal company. Asbestos removal can help prevent this chronic lung disease, which develops with prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers . Some of the symptoms of asbestosis include shortness of breath, chest pain, and a dry cough that may be bloody. To learn more about asbestosis and the importance of asbestos removal, watch this video.

    This animation depicts normal respiration and shows what happens when asbestos fibers are inhaled. Once in the airways, these small particles are attacked by macrophages, a type of immune cell. However, asbestos particles readily destroy macrophages, which release enzymes during cell death. These enzymes irritate the lung tissue, leading to the development of scar tissue in the lungs. By contracting with an asbestos removal company serving San Francisco, you can reduce the risk of asbestos exposure.

  • Physical Symptoms of Mold Exposure

    There are many different types of molds or mildew that can thrive indoors as well as outdoors. A building may require mold removal if it features a warm, humid environment, such as a shower stall in a home. Mold test and removal is essential because even though the mold appears to be stationary, it releases tiny mold spores that drift through the air. If you’ve been exposed to mold, you may suffer from ill health effects.

    Allergic Reactions
    Some people may suffer from allergic reactions upon being exposed to mold. These symptoms may arise immediately after exposure; however, for some people, it takes a while to experience symptoms. Some of the possible signs of a mold allergy include coughing, wheezing, sneezing, tearing of the eyes. A runny nose, rash, and skin irritation can also indicate a mold allergy. However, even if you aren’t allergic to mold, it is possible to experience some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction, namely irritation of the airways, eyes, and skin.

    Bay Area Mold Removal

    Asthma Attacks
    If you’re allergic to mold and you have asthma, it’s particularly important to contact a mold removal service in San Francisco. Some of the signs of an asthma attack include chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing. You may experience breathing problems, such as gasping for air, breathing faster than usual, and feeling as though you’re out of breath. If you do suffer an asthma attack because of mold, follow your physician’s recommended treatment plan. This will likely include using a rescue inhaler and going to the nearest emergency room.

    Respiratory Infections
    There is some evidence that mold exposure can cause respiratory infections. This may be more likely to occur to individuals who have a compromised immune system and those who have a chronic lung disease. A mold removal company can help you prevent these dangerous complications.

    Sick Building Syndrome
    Sick building syndrome is a term that refers to undefinable medical concerns linked to a particular building. For example, a group of individuals who frequent an office building may all develop similar symptoms after spending time in that building. These symptoms may include respiratory complaints, headaches, fatigue, skin irritation, and even gastrointestinal problems. Despite the similarity of the health complaints, professionals are unable to diagnose a specific illness, hence the term, “sick building syndrome.” Sick building syndrome is believed to have a number of causes, including exposure to mold.

  • Should You Test Your Home for Lead?

    Lead poisoning can lead to a number of serious health risks. Lead paint testing is always a good idea, particularly if you have small children. This is because young children tend to put objects and fingers in their mouths, increasing their risk of lead exposure. Lead paint removal is also essential if you or a loved one is pregnant, since lead poisoning can cause serious harm to a developing fetus.

    There are other reasons why you might call a lead paint removal company serving San Francisco. Homes that were built prior to 1950 almost always require lead paint removal. Those that were built before 1978 are also more likely to feature lead paint. It’s particularly important to test a home that has peeling or chipping paint, and a home that you plan to repaint or otherwise renovate. Even if you’re certain that your home does not feature lead paint, you may need to work with a lead removal company. If your home is close to a freeway, exhaust from leaded gasoline may have increased the lead content of the soil.

    Lead Paint Testing San Francisco

  • Spotting the Symptoms of Lead Poisoning in Kids

    Lead poisoning is a serious concern for families with young children, particularly those that live in older homes. Children can be exposed to lead by inhaling or swallowing it, or by absorbing it through the skin. Once lead enters into a child’s body, it is distributed throughout the tissues, causing widespread damage and a variety of symptoms. If you have young children or you’re an expectant parent, contact a company that offers lead paint testing in San Francisco. By testing your home and arranging for lead paint removal , if necessary, you can protect your youngsters from acute and chronic lead poisoning.

    Lead Paint Removal San Francisco

    Physical Symptoms
    It’s common for kids who have been exposed to lead to not display any symptoms of lead poisoning. This is one reason why you should call a company about lead paint testing despite the absence of symptoms. When kids do display symptoms, they can include headaches, fatigue, and a metallic taste in the mouth. They may experience gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain, constipation, vomiting, or nausea. Parents might also observe loss of appetite, weight loss, and pale skin caused by anemia. Children may complain of muscle and joint pain or weakness, and they may suffer from seizures.

    Behavioral Signs
    Lead paint removal is essential for eliminating the possibility of behavioral and cognitive changes among kids . Behavioral problems may be accompanied by irritability and difficulty concentrating. Some children may appear to be inattentive, while others are hyperactive. Lead poisoning may easily be mistaken for the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

    Long-Term Effects
    When children are exposed to lead for a prolonged period of time, additional health problems can develop. They may have delayed muscle and bone growth, impaired muscle coordination. Seizures followed by unconsciousness may occur, and children may suffer from hearing loss and damage to the nervous system or kidneys. Developmental delays, and speech and language problems are also associated with exposure to lead paint.