diyhealth.com

5 shocking things that could be making you sick

Mold

Home is where the heart is. It’s also supposed to be the place where you’re most comfortable and safe. But what about the dangers that permeate even the most high-tech security systems? There are countless silent killers lurking all around your house, from mold and carbon monoxide to bed bugs and fleas. While they’re not all deadly, these pesky home invaders can make you and your family extremely sick. Keep reading to discover five shocking things in your home, you didn’t know could harm you.

1. Air Conditioning

Air-ConditioningIt keeps your house and body temperature cool in the hot, summer months. But did you know that your air conditioner might contribute to respiratory issues? It also harbors mold in the filtration system. To help cut down on this, be sure to check and change your filters regularly. Aside from mold, your A/C unit may also contain a dangerous bacteria known as Legionella. Not only does this bacteria cause a very rare disorder known as Legionnaire’s disease, but it also feeds on human skin! While this sounds like something out of a horror movie, it’s a scary truth. Most symptoms are similar to those found in pneumonia and include high fever, chills, and muscle aches.

2. Kitchen Utensils

Kitchen-Utensils

With all the food handling done in your kitchen, it’s no surprise that the utensils and other items used during meal prep can carry a host of bacteria that might be making your family sick. Salmonella is a common bacteria found in raw poultry and eggs. When using a knife or kitchen shears on any raw food items, be sure to properly sanitize them before using them again. The same goes for all countertops, cutting boards or other food surfaces. But there are some lesser known health risks in the kitchen. How often do you use your can opener? And how often do you clean it? This is one kitchen utensil that most people neglect to clean, leading to the build of mold and E. coli. This bacteria is then transferred to the food in whatever can you’re opening and using. Another silent culprit is your dish sponge. Not only do millions of bacteria live on your sponge, but if you use the same one to clean your tables and counters that you use for your dishes, you’re simply spreading germs from one surface to the next. According to one report, microwaving your sponges might help kill unwanted germs.

3. Mold

MoldThat black stuff on your shower walls, curtain, or basement walls isn’t dirt. It’s mold. And depending on the type, it could be dangerous. Even deadly! Mold develops due to trapped moisture. Things like humidity, condensation, and leaks can all be responsible for mold build-up. The good news about visible mold is that you know it’s there and can take the necessary steps to eradicate it. There are numerous cleaners (both store bought and homemade) that can break through and wash away unsightly mold. More good news is that this type of mold is usually harmless. It’s the hidden mold that you can’t see that could cause bigger problems. Leaky pipes hidden below your sink or in your walls can create undetected mold issues which only worsen with time. Overexposure to black mold can cause respiratory issues, health complications, and even death. Keep all rooms in your home as dry and clean as possible to prevent mold growth.

4. Bed Bugs

bed-bugsThe presence of bed bugs just goes to show that no place is sacred. Just when you thought going to sleep was safe, think again! Not only are bed bugs unsettling, they’re actually more common than you might think. Jordan Larson from Custombedbug.com says that bedbugs are found in over 90% of buildings including stores, schools, and offices. But how do you know if you have a problem? And how do bed bugs compromise your health? Most people don’t realize that bed bugs are actually difficult to spot with the naked eye. Not only are they very tiny, but they hide and borrow into crevices and cracks in your mattress. One of the sure signs you might have bed bugs is what they leave behind on your mattress and bedding. You might spot black or brown spots of dried excrement on your sheets. Luckily, bed bugs aren’t known to transmit any diseases, but that doesn’t mean they’re without risk. Bed bugs do bite and some people have allergic reactions to these bites. Reactions range from a small bite mark to a rash or severe reaction including itchy, red skin.

5. Computer Keyboards

keyboardAccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, 78% of people own a laptop or computer. But who knew that danger could be right at your fingertips? Your keyboard is one of the most germ-infested things in your household. But what makes your keyboard the host of so much bacteria? And how does it affect your health? Most people never think to clean their keyboards. And unless you wash your hands routinely throughout the day, any time you eat, sneeze, cough, or use the bathroom, the germs from your hands and fingertips are transmitted to the keys. Not only that, but your keyboard is made up of raised keys. This leaves the perfect opening for dust, grim, oil, and germs to collect and settle. The longer these things fester, the worse they are for your health. Simply typing on your keyboard won’t get you sick, but the problem is most people don’t wash their hands after using their computers. If you have a snack, put a piece of gum in your mouth, or touch your face in anyway, you run the risk of spreading germs near your face and mouth. Keep your keyboard clean by wiping it down periodically with disinfectant wipes. Using an air duster aerosol spray is another great way to remove out of reach dust and germs.

When it comes to staying healthy and out of the doctor’s office, eating healthy and exercising aren’t your only concerns. Look around at hidden, everyday dangers that go unnoticed. Make them a priority and you’ll be amazed at the positive results!

Article Submitted By Community Writer

Today's Top Articles:

Scroll to Top