Stachybotrus chartarum, also known as stachybotrus atra, is the formal name for black mold. People with mold allergies, including black mold, experience symptoms when they breathe in mold spores. Coughing and itchy eyes are common symptoms of black mold allergies. Continued exposure to mold can even cause asthma. If someone is experiencing symptoms of a black mold allergy, certain remedies may treat symptoms.
Nasal Corticosteroids
Some patients are prescribed a nasal corticosteroid to treat black mold allergy symptoms. Nasal corticosteroids are designed to reduce inflammation caused by exposure to mold. Fluticasone propionate, sold as Flonase Veramyst, and mometasone, sold as Nasonex, are two commonly prescribed nasal corticosteroids. Nasal corticosteroids should generally be taken for a full week to see any effects and they are generally safe for long-term use.
Montelukast
Montelukast is a prescription medication that is taken in tablet form. Montelukast blocks leukotrines. Leukotrines are chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. Montelukast is typically prescribed for patients who are not able to effectively benefit from the use of nasal sprays or for patients who suffer from asthma. Montelukast is commonly prescribed as the brand name Singulair.
Lifestyle Changes
There are a number of lifestyle changes that black mold allergy sufferers can make to reduce and eliminate the occurrence of allergy symptoms. The concentration of mold spores is highest at night, states the Mayo Clinic. For this reason, black mold allergy sufferers should sleep with their windows closed. Patients should also wear a dust mask when working outside and are exposed to dust or mold spores. Patients should monitor the local mold count, which is typically provided by their local weather service. Mold levels are typically higher after the occurrence of damp weather so patients should avoid prolonged exposure to these weather conditions. Mold counts are only a general guide for mold counts and can vary in terms of what factors are included in the measurements.
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