Millions of people in the United States suffer from allergic rhinitis, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Allergic rhinitis, also referred to as nasal allergies, are the result of seasonal allergens such as pollen, dust mites and mold. The presence of mold in the home can cause a person to develop chronic allergic rhinitis, causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, postnasal drip and head pain, according to the National Library of Medicine. A person should talk with an allergist if he suffers from nasal allergy symptoms for more than 10 days, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Cause
The Mayo Clinic states that if a person has an allergic reaction to mold, the immune system overreacts and mistakes the mold as a potentially dangerous substance. The body will try to ward off the intruder by releasing various chemicals, including histamine, which leads to the common symptoms of allergic rhinitis and a mold allergy.
Symptoms
A mold allergy causing nasal allergies can result in sneezing, a runny nose, nasal congestion, an itchy nose, postnasal drip, cough and a sinus infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. A mold allergy causes the sinuses to become irritated and inflamed, which leads to the prevention of normal nasal drainage and a person’s ability to breathe. A person can also experience headaches, eye pain and tooth pain due to enlarged sinuses.
Treatment--Avoidance
The National Library of Medicine states that a person suffering from allergic rhinitis because of a mold allergy should avoid the allergen as the first line of treatment. An individual should identify any visible mold in or around the house, such as along the foundation, under sinks or in the basement. Removing carpet and replacing it with hard, nonporous surfaces such as wood or laminate can help prevent the growth of mold in carpets. Maintaining proper humidity levels in a home will also help prevent the growth of mold.
Treatment--Medication
Common medications used to treat allergic rhinitis from mold are decongestants, antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids, according to the Mayo Clinic. Decongestants are available over the counter and are used to reduce swelling in the sinus cavity. Antihistamines are used to reduce the amount of histamine the body produces, alleviating the common symptoms of an allergic reaction. Corticosteroids are a prescribed medication intended for continual use and are effective at reducing nasal inflammation and soothing the cavity.
Considerations
If a person experiences shortness of breath, swollen lips or asthmatic symptoms, she should seek medical attention immediately because it could be a sign of a severe allergic reaction, according to the Mayo Clinic. If symptoms persist, a person should talk with her doctor, according to the National Library of Medicine.
