Individuals who get allergy symptoms from indoor molds have perennial allergic rhinitis, an immune system disorder. Most people inhale mold allergens without knowing it, when newly developing colonies of Alternaria, Cladosporium or Stachybotrys chartarum release fungal spores into the air as they reproduce. Larger, visible mold colonies produce symptoms in allergy patients. The CDC reports that allergies to Stachybotrys chartarum, or black mold, and other indoor strains require the same treatments.
Allergy Medications
Antihistamine medications such as diphenhydramine and loratadine treat itchy eyes, sneezing and runny nose allergy symptoms. Patients can take over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines when symptoms arise, or when they notice visual signs of black mold. Over-the-counter decongestants relieve stuffy noses safely for a short term, but medicines such as pseudoephedrine should only be used for mold allergies for 3 to 7 days, per package directions.
According to MayoClinic.com, nasal corticosteroid sprays can be taken daily and are most effective when dosing begins prior to symptom onset. These prescription medications relieve stuffy and runny noses, as well as other mold-induced allergy symptoms.
Asthma Medications
Black mold and similar household molds can trigger asthma attacks in patients who already have asthma, the CDC relates. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, throat, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Medication options include an oral leukotriene modifier such as montelukast or an inhaled corticosteroid such as beclomethasone, depending upon the severity of asthma symptoms. These may be paired with other allergy drugs, such as nasal corticosteroids. These are not emergency inhalers; both types of treatments must be taken every day in order to work. Doctors may also order a rescue medication. Asthma medicines for mold allergies require prescriptions so that physicians can supervise multiple health conditions.
Allergen Removal
When allergy symptoms develop, or as a preventive measure, patients should take steps to remove the mold allergens. Otherwise, the CDC warns, respiratory symptoms will persist or reoccur. The best method for alleviating moderate to severe mold allergies is to have the environment cleaned periodically.
Many people, however, suffer from the effects of "hidden" black mold, which can grow in water-damaged wall board, carpeting or home siding, or behind wallpaper or bathroom fixtures. People can use commercial mold detection kits or hire professional mold removal companies to find and remove a perennial source of mold.
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