The Mayo Clinic defines mold allergy as an immune system reaction to mold spores where they are treated like a foreign agent in the body. Mold spores are airborne and can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause allergic responses. Avoiding mold spores is the best way to handle allergies but there are many medications available for treating the uncomfortable symptoms. Mold allergy symptoms are similar to several other types of allergies.
Common Effects
The Mayo Clinic suggests the most common symptoms of mold allergy to be sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, coughing, postnasal drip, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, itchy nose, watery eyes and the inflammation of the sinuses. Congestion can occur with these respiratory symptoms and can lead to sinus pressure, headache and watery eyes.
Asthma
Mold spores can trigger asthma attacks in individuals who do not have asthma, as well as those who do. Symptoms of asthma, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of American (AAFA), include coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. The Mayo Clinic suggests that in some cases mold allergies can cause severe asthma attacks.
Fungal Infection Effects
The Mayo Clinic identifies three other types of fungal infections that can be more serious. Allergic fungal sinusitis can occur when the spores lodge in the sinuses and begin to grow, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic. Other infections the clinic suggest include allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. These conditions are rare, according to the Mayo Clinic and occur in individuals with asthma or cystic fibrosis, or in cases where the mold spores cause inflammation of the lungs.
Other Complications
The Mayo Clinic suggests several other symptoms associated with mold allergy. These include fatigue, headache, nausea, fever, rashes and coughing. The lungs of infants affected by mold allergies may bleed. Complications of mold allergies may be more likely in individuals who have a weakened immune system, live in a damp building or are exposed to the spores for extended periods of time.
