According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), allergies that never go away may be caused by a mold allergy. Mold spores are everywhere. Some mold is obvious because it's visible while other forms of mold are airborne, unseen. The Mayo Clinic states that a mold allergy is commonly related to asthmatic reactions that affect the upper-respiratory system. An allergist can confirm if someone has a mold allergy that is causing asthma.
Symptoms
Allergies and asthma symptoms from mold include watery eyes, an itchy throat, sneezing, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, coughing, wheezing and chest tightness that leads to shortness of breath. A mold allergy can also cause a sinus infection, the inflammation of the sinus cavity that can lead to a fever, thick nasal discharge and sinus headaches. If a fever develops, a doctor should evaluate the individual for a proper diagnosis.
Causes
The Mayo Clinic explains that when an individual has a mold allergy, his immune system overreacts to the mold and attempts to fight it off. This leads to the common allergy symptoms such as inflammation in the sinuses and inflammation in the lungs. The most common cause of a mold allergy related to asthma is breathing in mold spores which can be unseen in the air, according to the AAFA.
Prevention
According to National Jewish Health, all visible molds should be eliminated from the home. Visible mold is commonly found in bathrooms, in basements and under sinks where it is damp and cool. Bathrooms should have an exhaust that circulates air to prevent high humidity, kitchens can be cleaned with bleach-water to reduce mold spores and spoiled foods should be thrown away immediately. Maintaining low humidity throughout the house and avoiding the use of humidifiers can help prevent mold growth.
Treatments
The Mayo Clinic states that avoiding mold is the most effective treatment. Over the counter antihistamine pills and nasal sprays can be used to reduce mold allergy symptoms, according to AAFA. Decongestants are used to treat sinus inflammation caused by a mold allergy. A doctor may prescribe a medicated inhaler to treat asthmatic reactions to the mold or recommend immunotherapy. Immunotherapy, or allergy shots, is used to treat mold allergies and asthma.
Lifestyle Considerations
A mold allergy can be maintained by implementing certain lifestyle changes, according to the Mayo Clinic. These include sleeping with the windows shut, avoid going outdoors after it has rained, it is humid or foggy and avoiding raking leaves unless using a face mask.
