Mold spores live year round, are not always visible and cause respiratory illnesses and infection in those with fungi allergies. By the time mold is visible, millions of spores have gathered, creating a black coating on affected areas. Mold is light, airborne and inherent in household dust, particularly in high humidity areas. According to the Great Smokies Medical Center, more information on mold exposure treatments for symptoms that range from fatigue and difficulty breathing to depression and skin rashes is necessary.
Drugs
Anti-fungal drugs treat acute symptoms of mold exposure. Nasal sprays containing corticosteroids are often the first medication prescribed to treat mold exposure symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. Prescription nasal sprays, such as Nasonex and Flonase, treat and prevent upper respiratory symptoms caused by mold exposure. Common over-the-counter medications that affect symptoms include antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays, such as NasalCrom. Singulair is an oral prescription drug that blocks immune system reactions to mold, such as reducing mucus and treating mold-induced asthma.
Therapy
Drugs work best when used in conjunction with other therapies such as sinus irrigation and immune system building, report healthcare providers at the Great Smokies Medical Center. Acupuncture that addresses the sinuses and reduces swelling can help to defray the severity of symptoms. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic recommend a homemade nasal rinse of 1/4 cup of salt and 2 cups of water to reduce congestion.
Prevention
Yeast in mold thrives on sugar; people with mold exposure symptoms should reduce the amount of sugar in their diets to decrease symptoms and increase the effects of healing therapies. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that prevention is the best treatment for mold allergies because once an allergy is formed, it typically becomes a chronic condition. Treatments primarily deal with the symptoms, so care must be taken to avoid exposure. Keep rooms dry by using a dehumidifier and keeping windows closed during damp, rainy weather. Discard items that have become moldy, especially pillows and other cloth items that hold spores. Clean with diluted bleach and vacuum frequently with a machine that has a filter designed to trap small dust particles.
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