Because fungus allergy symptoms can come and go, many patients like to use a variety of treatments for different degrees of discomfort. Taking gentler allergy medicines when possible helps to minimize side effects and, in some cases, free patients entirely from daily drug regimens. The health problems caused by allergies to outdoor leaf-inhabiting molds and indoor fungal colonies respond to the same remedies. Treatments for any fungus allergies focus on reducing inflammation and excess mucus.
Nasal Rinsing
When allergy symptoms first develop or are limited to itching in the nasal membranes, a saline rinse may suffice to calm them. Nasal rinsing also offers a drug-free alternative to decongestant medications for relieving stuffy noses.
The Mayo Clinic recommends a homemade warm-water rinse made with ¼ teaspoon salt to 2 cups water. Patients can administer saline solution with a bulb syringe. Pharmacies also sell prepared nasal rinse kits.
Cromolyn Sodium
Cromolyn sodium's gentle preventive action works to help patients avoid the full extent of fungus allergy symptoms with few side effects. This nasally administered allergy medicine carries none of the blood pressure or blood glucose risks that accompany the use of some antihistamines, decongestants and oral steroids. According to American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) medication advice, cromolyn sodium is safe enough for perennial mold treatment of adults and children as young as 2 years of age. This allergy medicine effectively reduces itching, sneezing and other nasal symptoms and needs no prescription.
Nasal Steroid Sprays
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does control nasal steroid sprays by prescription, but these medications are quickly becoming popular treatments for respiratory allergy symptoms. Fluticasone and flunisolide represent brand-name and generic versions of similar-acting corticosteroids. The AAAAI reports that various low-dose nasal formulas appeal to toddlers, children and adults without the drowsiness side effects problems of antihistamine medicines.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines may best be recognized for their strength in easing persistent itching, runny nose and sneezing. Many of these medications, however, simultaneously cause sedation, especially over-the-counter brands such as diphenhydramine. Their great diversity in syrup, eyedrop, pill and spray form attract a wide variety of patients, as the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Doctors can also prescribe stronger antihistamine formulas, many of which do not cause drowsiness.
Decongestants
Decongestant allergy medicines are becoming less well received due to their short-term effectiveness and other possible side effects. The Mayo Clinic notes that while decongestants such as oxymetazoline do provide stuffy nose relief when taken for more than 3 days those symptoms may reappear. Decongestant nasal sprays also pose risks to allergy patients with high blood pressure.
