The symptoms of an allergic reaction to mold are similar to that of the common cold, and may include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itching, dry skin and watery eyes. These symptoms may only occur in the summer if the allergy is caused by outdoor molds, but may occur year-round if the allergy is caused by indoor molds, notes the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. If you have a mold allergy, you can avoid these symptoms by making simple lifestyle modifications and receiving the proper treatment for your allergy.
Step 1
Keep your home dry and cool. The humidity levels should remain between 35 and 45 percent to prevent mold from growing, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
Step 2
Frequently clean and disinfect areas in the kitchen, bathrooms and basement where mold is likely to grow. Bleach can kill mold spores and prevent mold from growing in these areas.
Step 3
Check weather reports daily to determine the published mold count for the day. Stay inside as much as possible on the days when the mold count is high.
Step 4
Keep your windows and doors shut at night. This limits the amount of mold spores that come into your house, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 5
Wear a mask when mold is present. This includes when you are outside doing yardwork, or cleaning damp areas of your home where mold may be present.
Step 6
Take allergy medication, as some may prevent allergic reactions from occurring. Talk to your doctor about the best type of preventive allergy medication for your situation.
Tips and Warnings
- Air conditioning units or dehumidifiers with an HEPA filter may be useful.
- It is not always possible to avoid an allergic reaction to mold if you have mold allergies. Always be prepared to handle an allergic reaction by having the appropriate medication on hand just in case an allergic reaction does occur.
Things You'll Need
- Bleach
- Mask
References
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Mold Allergy
- MayoClinic.com: Mold Allergy--Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Allergies: Things You Can Do to Control Your Symptoms
- MedlinePlus: Allergy to Mold--Animal Dander, Dust
- American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
