Mold Allergy Symptoms - Molds may be a collective term for a variety of fungi that reproduce by forming spores. It may also be associated to mildew which is a term that describes a kind of mold that has a white grayish color that grows in moist places in the home. There are several kinds of molds in the home but the most common ones are Cladisporium, Penicillium, Alternaria and the black mold which is a common name for Stachybotrys.

Mold grows in filaments and forms spores to reproduce. Spores are not visible to the naked eye and favors moisture rich environments to survive although some spores are known to even survive in dry harsh conditions. Mold causes allergies in some people and mold allergy symptoms are the end result. These micro organisms also produce toxic substances that may cause severe health effects especially to people who are known to be sensitive to molds and spores.

Mold Allergy Symptoms – The Most Common Symptoms

·         As with any allergic symptom, sneezing may result on the initial exposure to molds and spores. Allergic symptoms may either manifest immediately or may develop over a period of time due to constant exposure to molds in the home.

·         Runny nose is also one of the most common mold allergy symptoms and may develop to increased secretions of the upper respiratory tract as the allergy worsens.

·         Coughing is the body’s reaction to any foreign material with the intention of expelling microorganisms and harmful substances from the respiratory tract.

·         People who may suffer from mold allergy may instantly manifest wheezing as the bronchial tubes of the lungs tighten due to an allergic reaction. Combined with the increase in mucus secretions, difficulty in exhaling trapped air causes the audible wheezing sound.

·         Redness of the eyes is also a common symptom combined with the development of rashes in the arms, legs and abdomen. These skin rashes are very itchy and can form large patches of red and swollen skin lesions.

·         In severe cases of mold allergy symptoms, fever may be present along with difficulty in breathing. Severe symptoms are present in persons with compromised immune systems and to people who have chronic lung disease.

·         People who have asthma may be triggered after being exposed to molds. There is severe difficulty in breathing, wheezing, increased mucus secretions and coughing after minutes of being exposed to the mold.

If you suspect you or any member of the family is suffering from mold allergy symptoms, consult a medical professional at once. Your doctor may advice the best treatment for allergies as well as medications to treat molds. When mold infestation is suspected at home, call an expert contractor who can kill molds ultimately reducing the development of mold allergy symptoms.

Molds may be prevented in the home by destroying the places where they live and thrive. Avoid moisture in bathrooms, shower stalls, kitchens and laundry areas. Use bathroom fans, exhaust systems and inspect plumbing, air conditioning ducts and humidifiers for accumulation of moisture.

It could be very difficult to suffer from mold allergy symptoms.  There is sneezing, coughing, redness of the eyes, a runny nose and even allergic skin rashes.  In severe cases of mold allergy, there is moderate to high fever accompanied by extreme difficulty in breathing.  In asthmatics, molds may trigger an asthma attack which can cause severe reactions like wheezing, sneezing, narrowing of the bronchial lining, increased mucus secretions, headaches and difficulty in breathing.

Mold Allergy Symptoms – Treatments 

Treatments for mold allergy symptoms are usually dealing with the source of mold growth: moisture.  Since mold live and thrive in moisture, treatments must direct to the reduction of moisture to ultimately prevent mold allergy.

Mold allergy symptoms are treated through the use of nasal corticosteroids which are often the initial treatment that medical professional prescribes.  Nasal sprays like ciclesonide, fluticasone, mometasone and beclomethasone are the most common nasal mold allergy sprays given.  Antihistamines are effective in reducing mold allergy symptoms like itching, watery eyes, sneezing and a runny nose.  These work in stopping histamines which is released by the immune system during an allergic reaction.  Nasal decongestants on the other hand may also be used to treat symptoms like nasal congestion and runny nose; common nasal decongestants are available over-the-counter in liquid preparations, tablets and nasal sprays.

There are many other treatments that are seen as effective ways to reduce the allergy symptoms.  Immunotherapy involves taking a series of allergy shots to prevent mold allergies.  In reducing nasal blockage and nasal irritation caused by molds, nasal irrigation may be done.  Nasal irrigation or sinus rinsing involves spraying saline solution through the nasal passages allowing the fluid to drain in the nasal mucosa to the back of the throat.  This treatment can be irritating at first but many who have tried nasal rinsing have reduced symptoms of mold allergies as well as improved breathing.

Prevention is always the best treatment for mold allergy symptoms.  To keep molds and spores from entering the home, close your windows especially at night and when the weather is cool.  A mask may also significantly reduce the effect of spores; wear them when you do chores in the garden, mow the lawn and when you work in the yard.  Keep away from places where molds are likely to live like basements, attics and laundry areas when you are hypersensitive to molds and spores.

Prevent mold growth by eliminating moisture.  Inspect leaks and plumbing damage in the home and make repairs as soon as you can.  If possible, use a dehumidifier and an air conditioner with a HEPA filter (high efficiency particulate air).  These special filters can trap microorganisms, dirt, molds and spores from outdoor air.  Reduce mold growth in bathrooms and laundry areas by using an exhaust fan.  Clean all surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen and also outdoors regularly.  Never allow rain water to accumulate in rain gutters, redirect groundwater drainage away from the home.  You may also contact a professional contractor to take care of mold infestation in your home before it’s too late.