The Problem with High Humidity Levels
We all know how uncomfortable it is outdoors when the humidity levels are high. It feels hot and sticky, and sometimes it’s almost hard to breathe. During hot and humid July days, escaping to the air-conditioned indoors always seems like a good plan. However, it won’t feel a whole lot better inside if your home has excess moisture lingering as well. You might be surprised to learn that excess indoor humidity can actually be a health problem.
What is considered excess humidity?
The ideal humidity level for an average or normal residential home is between 30 and 50 percent. Anytime humidity is higher than that, there can be problems.
High levels of humidity cause and encourage:
- Bacteria such as pneumococcus, streptococcus, and staphylococcus
- Mold
- Dust mites
- Cockroaches
A building’s symptoms vary throughout the property
By the time the building start showing symptoms, it’s more than likely that the humidity has been too high for quite some time. It’s not common for signs to show immediately since the humidity level can vary throughout seasons.
Some of the signs include:
- Musty odors throughout rooms, or in specific areas of the house
- Ceilings and walls start to show patches of discoloration or mold
- Paint begins to bubble, while wallpaper will start peeling off the walls
- Windows are usually covered in condensation throughout the day
People’s reactions depend on the amount of humidity and their personal sensitivity to it
People with asthma, COPD, and other respiratory illnesses are the most likely to experience reactions to humidity. However, everyone is, to some degree, sensitive to the mold, mildew, dust mite, and bacteria problems that excess humidity often creates. Even someone who doesn’t have any upper respiratory issues will eventually develop problems due to mold, mites, and bacteria.
- Breathing Issues – Tiny airborne spores are produced from mold, which triggers allergies for most people. In addition to breathing issues, some people will also develop rashes on their skin. Humidity can also contribute to an infestation of dust mites, tiny creatures that are found in bedding, upholstery, and carpeting. Other bugs are also attracted to humidity, and when a home is infested with bugs, the air quality suffers as the insects leave droppings and other debris.
- Lethargy problems – Maybe even more common than breathing issues, high levels of humidity also cause lethargy. If you’re hot and sweaty, high humidity levels make it hard for your body to get rid of the excess heat. This can lead to overheating, physical exhaustion, and headaches to name just a few symptoms. Along with excess sweating comes dehydration and lack of energy. As your body continues to try and cool down, blood vessels also dilate in the process. This can lead to additional muscle pain and weakness.
All of these issues can be taken care of by controlling the humidity through newer ventilation, dehumidifiers, and other procedures. Call CMC Corporate Solutions @ (225)925-5236 or (504)265-0017 to find out how to fix your humidity problem today!
