5 Signs Your House Is Making You Sick + How To Solve Them

A clean, vibrant living environment is a key component of a well-rounded life. On the other hand, a dirty, dusty, and damp home can be detrimental to health. The following five things at home could be triggering allergies, irritations, and respiratory issues and should be addressed so you don't end up feeling sick in your sanctuary:

A home with elevated humidity (anything above 60%) can become a breeding ground for mold. If the humidity levels get high enough, they can also affect the drywall and create an environment where mold spreads behind walls. We now know that certain mold causes a plethora of health issues1, from chronic sinusitis to nervous system damage. High humidity also welcomes dust mites, which can cause allergic reactions, stomach issues, and sleep disorders. Keep in mind that you don't want your humidity to be too low either (below 40%) since that can lead to respiratory irritation.

Not only is dust a nuisance, but it also carries irritating dust mites that can disrupt our nasal passages and eyes. Studies show that dust mites put stress on our immune system2, weakening it over time. Dust also attracts dirt and particles from outside, which can contain pesticides and herbicides that are potentially toxic to the nervous system, and one recent study linked dust to weight gain.

Most people have experienced water damage at home at one point or another—whether it be from a leaky window or a basement flood. Any of these forms of water damage can greatly reduce the health of your home and should be taken care of by a professional. If you spot water damage or an ongoing leak, it's important to clean it up properly so it doesn't attract mold.

The energy-efficiency movement is in full swing, which means many houses are sealed ultra-tight, preventing any sort of outdoor air from reaching the inside. While this is great for energy bills, it's a potential health problem. Remember: Indoor air is often dirtier3 than outdoor air!

And though condensation may sound harmless, it can actually put your home at an even higher risk for mold growth. Often seen on windows when the outdoor air is cooler and drier than the indoor air, condensation can eventually drip down into the inside of walls, causing mold to form.