Mold Allergy Symptoms

Mold is a type of fungus which is found almost everywhere. It grows on soil, plants, foods, fabrics, damp walls, etc. It reproduces by releasing huge numbers of tiny spores which float through the air.

When these spores are inhaled, some people exhibit allergic reactions, thereby treating the mold spores as allergens. Molds are of various types; however, not all of them give rise to allergy symptoms. The most common allergy-causing molds include cladosporium, alternaria, penicillium, and aspergillus.

The allergy can trigger symptoms similar to a generic respiratory allergic reaction. You will start with an itchy nose and throat followed by sneezing, and accompanied by a stuffy nose. The blocked nose, however, continues to drip and so do the eyes.

In a little while, sinuses appear inflamed, and there seems to be a rash on the facial skin. In hypersensitivity, these symptoms may develop into an asthma like attack that triggers off excessive coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The patient finds it difficult to lie down, and restlessness caused by inability to breathe compounds the problem.

Whenever the spores encounter the skin or body of the mold-sensitive people, their immune system automatically starts manufacturing antibodies to fight them. These antibodies are produced even after the spores are gone.

Later, if again there is an exposure to mold, these antibodies recollect the invader attack and the immune system begins to react. This reaction leads to the release of histamines into the system causing itchy, runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, and difficulty in breathing.

If your basement or one of the walls has a growth of mold, there will be enough spores in the house to trigger allergy attacks. This growth can be caused by multiple reasons, a bad plumbing or leaky pipelines.

In fact, mold is one of the hardiest crops to grow, and it can magically appear on leftover bread, behind pictures on walls in damp climates, even on damp soap, carpets, or anything that can retain moisture. Any such thing lying around the house can trigger allergy reactions.

While sneezing and stuffy nose can also be a sign of common cold, if they persist for more than 2 weeks, and specially get noticeable in a particular place, see a doctor and get it diagnosed. There are no actual medicines to control mold allergy, but in most cases a dose of antihistamine helps.

Medically, the only accurate test for mold allergies is the allergy-skin test. This test uses the extracts of common allergens on your skin on different, numbered patches. The reaction to each of them is then noted down, and the doctors can determine which of these elements you are allergic to.

In a healthy body the only real trouble a mold allergy can cause is that of bringing on a dangerous asthma attack. In very bad cases, the physician can prescribe inhalers that have corticosteroids or broncho-dilators.

These are fast acting medications that dilate your bronchioles, easing breathing almost immediately. In milder situations, the prescription usually holds antihistamines, which bring relief in a short while, but usually make one drowsy.

Rhinitis (swollen adenoids and sinuses), can be treated using decongestants and also nasal sprays or drops. In some cases, allergy shots may help provide long-term relief of symptoms.

Researches for cures of these allergy symptoms are still on. But, since prevention is better than cure, it is better to reduce the occurrence of the allergy symptoms by controlling the triggers. Start by getting rid of mold in your environment. Try to reduce dampness or humidity in your house or workplace.

Plumbings in the basement causing leakages, or pipes causing dampness on walls should be rectified immediately. Ensure bathrooms are well-ventilated and clean at all times. AC ducts should also be cleaned regularly. Try to maintain the humidity levels in the house below 40%.

Take care of yourself too. Avoid damp weather or foggy walks. Try wearing a dust mask when you have to do work that rakes up dust. Nighttime is worst for airborne mold spores, so avoid sleeping with windows open at night. If proper care is taken, allergy symptoms can be handled well.

Disclaimer: This post is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.