The constant dripping of mucus down the back of your throat can become a nuisance if it becomes chronic. Postnasal drip is a common symptom of mold allergies because an allergic reaction to mold causes nasal complications. Chronic postnasal drip resulting from a mold allergy is most effectively treated by eliminating mold exposure. Make an appointment with an allergist to determine if immunotherapy is a recommended treatment.
Mold Allergy
If you have an allergy to mold, your immune system is overly sensitive to mold spores. When you inhale or ingest mold, your immune system overreacts and attacks the mold with immunoglobulin E antibodies. IgE antibodies cause mast cells to produce histamine, a chemical that protects the body from infection, according to MayoClinic.com. Histamine released in soft tissue causes blood vessels to dilate and increases blood flow. This action causes itching in your eyes, throat and mouth, sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose and coughing.
Postnasal Drip
The histamine released in the sinus cavity results in swelling and inflammation. The swollen nasal cavity blocks your ability to drain mucus and breathe through your nostrils. Histamine also causes mucus membranes to create more mucus, which can clog your sinuses with mucus. Because the mucus cannot drain from your nostrils, it will drip down the back of your throat. This is considered postnasal drip, which can cause bad breath, coughing and the feeling of a lump in your throat, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology.
Treatment
Treat mold allergies by removing all visible mold from the interior and exterior of your home using a bleach and water solution. Run an air purifier in your home to reduce the amount of airborne mold spores and avoid eating foods that contain mold, such as cheeses, dried fruits and sauerkraut. Over-the-counter medications commonly used to treat allergic rhinitis include antihistamines, decongestants and pain relievers. Talk with your doctor before using any medication.
Allergy Shots
Allergy shots may help eliminate postnasal drip resulting from a mold allergy. Allergy shots use a tiny amount of the allergen and inject it into your body. Over time the allergist increases the amount of the allergen injected, which slowly desensitizes your immune system to the hypersensitivity, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
