Molds are common, and thrive in musty, damp or humid places such as bathrooms, basements, kitchens, under fallen leaves, and in compost piles and rotting logs. The amount of outdoor mold spores increase during humid, damp or foggy conditions, and immediately after a rainstorm. For mold allergy sufferers, completely avoiding exposure to mold or mold spores can be difficult, but there are ways to reduce symptoms related to the allergy.
Step 1
Take over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants to relieve itching, sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose and other symptoms of mold allergy.
Step 2
Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier to keep relative indoor humidity below 45 percent. Use a high-efficiency particulate air filter to trap mold spores and other allergens from the air.
Step 3
Wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling mold spores when going outdoors during humid days, or when working around the garden.
Step 4
Wipe shower walls after use, and turn on the exhaust 30 minutes after taking a shower to prevent mold from growing in the bathroom.
Step 5
Stay indoors after a rainstorm, during damp or foggy conditions and other days when the published mold count is high.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult with your doctor about your mold allergy symptoms for treatment options or to determine if your symptoms are caused by something else.
Things You'll Need
- Dust mask
- Dehumidifier
- HEPA air filters
