Top Restoration Services in Bellevue, WA | Quality Restoration

Blog

Request A Callback

Jan 22, 2025

Respiratory Issues from Water Damage: Causes and Fixes

Water damage can lead to serious health problems, especially respiratory issues. Mold, bacteria, and airborne particles thrive in damp environments, causing asthma, infections, and other breathing difficulties. Acting quickly - within 24–48 hours - is critical to prevent these risks. Here's what you need to know:

Common Causes: Mold spores, bacteria like Legionella, and harmful airborne particles from damaged materials.
At-Risk Groups: Children, seniors, people with asthma, and those with weak immune systems.
Immediate Actions: Remove standing water, dry areas fast, and wear protective gear.
Long-Term Prevention: Use water leak detectors, inspect plumbing, and maintain humidity below 50%.

Professional cleanup services are often necessary for thorough remediation and air quality restoration. Protect your health by addressing water damage promptly.

Dampness in Homes & Buildings: Preventing Respiratory Illnesses

What Causes Breathing Problems from Water Damage

Water damage can lead to serious respiratory problems. Knowing the causes can help you tackle these risks head-on.

Mold and Mildew in Damp Areas

Mold and mildew grow quickly in damp spaces - often within 24–48 hours of water exposure. These fungi release tiny spores into the air, which can lead to respiratory problems like coughing, wheezing, and worsening asthma.

"The best current evidence suggests observations of dampness, water damage, or mold odors are key indicators of health hazards." - NIOSH

Germs in Contaminated Water

Floodwater and sewage backups often carry harmful pathogens that can cause respiratory infections. Research highlights that waterborne pathogens, such as adenovirus, are especially dangerous for certain groups:

Children: Higher risk of infections
Seniors: Slower recovery from illnesses
Immunocompromised individuals: Greater chance of severe complications
Asthma sufferers: Symptoms can worsen significantly

These vulnerable groups are more likely to experience serious respiratory issues when exposed to contaminated water.

Airborne Particles from Water Damage

Water damage can release harmful particles into the air, including:

Physical debris: Dust and fragments from damaged building materials
Chemical compounds: Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from broken materials
Biological contaminants: Microscopic organisms beyond just mold

For example, after Hurricane Katrina, mold spore levels in flooded homes were found to be twice as high as in non-flooded areas. This spike in airborne mold caused widespread respiratory issues for many residents.

Recognizing these risks is critical. Taking quick action can help reduce the health problems caused by water damage.

Steps to Reduce Respiratory Risks from Water Damage

What to Do Immediately After Water Damage

Act fast to avoid respiratory problems caused by water damage. Start by removing any standing water and drying wet areas within 24-48 hours. Wear protective gear like masks and gloves to limit exposure to harmful contaminants. Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process, and throw away materials that can't be salvaged to stop mold from forming. If the damage is extensive, you might need to call in professionals to handle the cleanup thoroughly.

Hire Professional Cleanup Services

Certified restoration companies, such as Quality Restoration NW LLC, have specialized equipment to assess damage, remove harmful contaminants, and ensure everything is cleaned properly. This is especially critical for individuals with compromised immune systems or existing respiratory conditions.

"Exposures to building dampness and mold have been associated with respiratory symptoms, asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, rhinosinusitis, bronchitis, and respiratory infections." - NIOSH Alert, November 2012

Improve Air Quality After Water Damage

After the initial cleanup, focus on restoring the air quality in your home. Use HEPA air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and ensure proper ventilation to create a safer environment. Keep humidity levels below 50% to stop mold from growing. These steps should continue until professional testing confirms the air is safe to breathe. If your home has suffered severe water damage, professional air quality testing may be necessary to ensure it’s safe for everyone living there.

How to Prevent Future Respiratory Problems

Install Water Leak Detectors

Place smart water leak detectors in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, basements, and near water-using appliances. These devices send alerts to your phone if they detect moisture, helping you address issues early. Key spots to monitor include sinks, water heaters, and basement corners.

Inspect Plumbing and Appliances Regularly

Routine checks can help you spot problems before they escalate. Look for these warning signs:

Warped walls or ceilings
Musty or unusual odors
Rust around pipe joints
Slow drains or strange noises in pipes

Research shows that dampness and mold in buildings can increase the likelihood of respiratory issues and infections.

Prepare for Water Damage Emergencies

Having a plan for water damage can protect your respiratory health. Stock up on essentials like N95 masks, industrial dehumidifiers, and HEPA air purifiers. Keep emergency contact numbers handy, including those for professional restoration services.

"Studies have shown that exposures to building dampness and mold have been associated with respiratory symptoms, asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, rhinosinusitis, bronchitis, and respiratory infections."

For severe damage, professional services like Quality Restoration NW LLC can handle cleanup and implement measures to prevent future problems. Acting quickly ensures proper moisture control, reducing the risk of long-term respiratory health issues.

Maintain indoor humidity below 50%. In particularly humid climates, consider using a whole-house dehumidifier to keep your home safe and comfortable. These steps can help you protect both your home and your health from the risks of water damage.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Health and Home

Key Points to Keep in Mind

Water damage can have serious consequences for respiratory health. Damp environments and mold exposure are linked to issues like asthma, infections, and other breathing problems. This makes professional restoration services essential for proper cleanup and reducing long-term risks.

Indoor air quality is a major factor in maintaining good respiratory health. Professionals can ensure a thorough cleanup, removing potential hazards that might otherwise linger. Studies show that untreated water damage is directly connected to severe respiratory issues.

Taking action within 24-48 hours is crucial to limit mold growth and reduce health risks. Delaying cleanup beyond seven days significantly increases the dangers. Preventive steps like leak detection, routine inspections, and proper ventilation are key strategies for keeping your home safe and healthy.

For extensive water damage, services like Quality Restoration NW LLC offer complete solutions - from water removal to full restoration. Their expertise in mold remediation and biohazard cleanup ensures your home becomes a safe and healthy space again.

FAQs

Can water damage make you sick?

Yes, it can. Damp environments caused by water damage often lead to mold, bacteria, and airborne pollutants, which are associated with respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and even infections. These problems are particularly dangerous for children, seniors, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Can water damage cause respiratory problems?

Absolutely. Water damage creates the perfect conditions for mold and harmful bacteria to thrive, which can significantly lower indoor air quality. For instance, studies after Hurricane Katrina revealed that mold spore levels in flooded areas were nearly double those in unaffected areas.

To reduce these risks, the EPA advises addressing water damage within 24-48 hours. Professional restoration services are equipped to eliminate hazards and improve air quality. Companies like Quality Restoration NW LLC specialize in water damage remediation, ensuring your home is safe and healthy again.

Acting quickly and seeking professional help is key to protecting your health and home.