Wipe Away Sniffles

Want to keep your kids' runny noses to a minimum? Taking care of chronic dampness and moisture problems in your home could help.

Moisture issues in buildings have been associated with respiratory symptoms, such as nasal congestion, a runny nose, or an irritated throat. The trouble is that damp environments encourage the growth of mold, a common allergen that affects some children. Discourage mold growth by promptly taking care of any moisture and plumbing problems in and around your home.

A good way to discourage mold growth in the home is to frequently clean any areas that routinely get damp, such as entryway floors, bathtubs and showers, and the air ducts of cooling systems. Also, keep kitchens and bathrooms well ventilated with exhaust fans or increased airflow, especially when showering, cooking, or running the dishwasher.

When living areas get wet because of plumbing leaks or accidental rainwater entry, dry and clean them as soon as possible, and promptly make repairs to prevent a recurrence. If you suspect you have a mold problem in your home, a home inspector who specializes in mold inspection and testing can help you determine if your home is unhealthy.