Any type of water damage can cause a lot of damage and trouble. However, water damage caused by spilling water on carpets is the worst. This is because spilling water on a carpet damages not only your health but also your property. A wet carpet can transfer mould, allergens, and mildew into the air. Exposure to mould can be a serious health concern for many people. The following are some of the reasons why you should clean spilt water on your carpet immediately
Allergic Reactions
Water spills on carpets can release harmful irritants and mould. The most common symptoms of exposure to mould are allergies and irritation. An allergic reaction is triggered by the body’s histamine response to the mildew and mould spores that are released into the air as soon as water is spilt on a carpet. This causes inflammation in the body, which results in the swelling of the nasal passages and mucus membranes. You may experience sneezing, congestion in the chest, coughing, and flu. Sometimes, your eyes can also get watery and itchy if the spill is quite large. The mould exposure can also cause irritation to the throat and can activate sinus as well as other allergic reactions.
Respiratory Issues
Carpet water damage can be extremely harmful to people who have serious respiratory conditions like asthma, emphysema, tuberculosis, etc. This is because inhaling the mould spores can lead to lung contractions. This can ultimately cause shortness of breath, chest congestion, and tightness, or an asthma attack.
People who have asthma are most at risk due to water spilt on a carpet because their lungs are already weak; thus, mould growth can cause fungal infections, which can further damage their lungs. The infection can penetrate the ears and lungs, which can cause permanent damage to the airways.
Skin Conditions
If you are exposed to a wet carpet, the spores can cause some serious damage and irritation to the skin. These conditions last until the carpet is dry. If the carpet is not cleaned immediately, the condition can worsen and often cause viral and bacterial infections such as skin eczema, rashes, and hives. These serious skin conditions can cause bumps, itching, and swelling, which is not only uncomfortable but also unattractive.
Neurological Health Problems
The growth of mould and mildew on a wet carpet can cause neurological health problems as well, such as loss of memory, mood swings, fatigue, dementia, and migraines. These neurological symptoms can often get worse if the carpet is not cleaned immediately.
It is essential to keep your carpets clean and dry to avoid the above conditions. A water spill on a carpet can also cause a very foul smell, which can make everyone uncomfortable. You should not leave it there to dry out on its own as it can take longer. Anti-Damp provides solutions for various water-related issues. If you need further information regarding carpet cleaning, please visit our website or get in touch with us here.