Exposure to certain types of molds can have serious health implications. Beyond allergies, which can be another result of mold exposure, dangerous molds such as Stachybotrys or Chaetomiuman can lead to chronic bronchitis, heart problems, multiple sclerosis, fatigue, lupus, fibromyalgia, arthritis and cancer. According to the Mold Help Organization, many people don't realize they are breathing mold spores until they are very sick. In New Jersey, the most commonly found treatment for mold exposure is immunotherapy, which involves either shots or droplets placed under the tongue.
Exposure to Mold
People are usually exposed to mold through their homes, offices, or other places they spend a lot of time. It is often the result of dampness or moisture, which the National Academy of Sciences' Institute of Medicine has deemed a public health problem. According to a report by that institute, the best way to combat mold is by reducing or eliminating dampness in homes and buildings. Residents of New Jersey who feel their home or building may have a problem with mold can consult the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services' list of approved remediation firms (see "References").
Treatment for Mold
The most common treatment method for mold exposure in New Jersey is immunotherapy, which gradually exposes patients to increasing doses of the substance or allergen. This can be done through shot injections or something called sublingual immunotherapy, which involves a series of droplets placed under the tongue. In the latter case, the patient applies the therapy at home. Sauna or steam therapy is also available in other states.
Newark
Asthma and Allergy Care in Newark, New Jersey, offers testing for mold as well as immunotherapy treatment. New patients should expect the first visit to take about an hour and a half. According to its website, the clinic accepts over a dozen insurance plans including Americhoice, Atlantis Health Plan, AARP, Medicare, NJ Carpenters, Qualcare and University Healthplan. An insurance card, physician referral (if required by insurance), list of medications, medical and surgical history, and recent X-rays or relevant records will need to be provided by the patient.
Elizabeth
Associates in ENT and Allergy in Elizabeth, New Jersey, offers mold testing and treatment for its patients. The clinic's two doctors and three nurses can help determine if mold exposure has occurred and, if so, which treatment method best fits the patient. Allergy testing is performed Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. or Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The office is located four blocks from Kean University.
Kearny
Dr. Kathleen Thomas specializes in allergy and immunology in Kearny, New Jersey. She graduated with a medical degree over 35 years ago, and her clinic offers mold testing and immunotherapy treatment. Thomas' office also accepts a number of insurance plans including PacifiCare, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, United Oxford Liberty, Cigna, Great West Healthcare and HealthNet.
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