Mold is a fungus that reproduces by spreading spores through the wind or air. It is a common cause of airborne allergies, affecting about 5 percent of individuals at one point in their lives, says a study from the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Molds can grow anywhere and from season to season, but most especially at certain times of the year when humidity is high.
Allergenic Molds
Mold comes in many different species, but only a few can cause allergic reactions in humans. Frequent culprits include Alternaria, Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Helmin thosporium, Epicoccum, Fusarium, Mucor, Rhizopus and Aureobasidium, lists the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Outdoors, molds can grow in rotting logs, compost piles, fallen leaves, grasses and grains. Indoors, molds thrive in damp areas such as the bathroom, basement and kitchen. Molds can also grow behind walls, inside carpets, on soap scums and in other damp places.
At Risk
People are at higher risk of developing mold allergies if they have parents or siblings with allergies to pollen or pet dander. Those who have mold allergies are susceptible to developing allergies to dust mites, pollen and other airborne allergens. Farmers, milkmen, loggers, bakers, mill workers, carpenters, greenhouse employees, wine makers and those who repair furniture are more likely to have allergic reactions to mold, notes the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Other risk factors include living in a humid or poorly ventilated house or living or working in a building that was previously exposed to molds or excess moisture.
Symptoms
Symptoms of mold allergies range from mild to severe and occur during certain seasons or year-round. Common symptoms include itching, runny or stuffy nose, watery eyes, inflamed nasal passages, and dry, itchy rash. Some people with asthma exposed to mold may experience severe episodes, such as breathless wheezing, coughing, breathlessness and chest tightness. Some people may develop a serious allergic condition called allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, a fungal infection of the lungs in people with asthma or cystic fibrosis.
Treatment
The best treatment for mold allergies is completely avoiding contact with spores or molds. Antihistamines and over-the-counter decongestants may relieve itchiness, runny or stuffy nose and swelling. Physicians may advise patients to take the antihistamine drugs at bedtime as the medication can cause drowsiness. He may also prescribe corticosteroid nasal spray for severe allergies. If symptoms persist despite the use of medications, allergists may advise allergy shots to reduce inflammation and other allergic reactions to mold.
Prevention/Solution
People with mold allergies may benefit from staying indoors when the pollen count is high. A central air conditioner unit with an HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter will purify indoor air of mold spores. The AAFA also recommends keeping indoor air humidity between 35 percent and 45 percent to keep molds from growing.
