1. Learn the Nature of Molds
Mold is a kind of fungus. There are many species of mold, and a few of them can trigger allergies in humans. Molds reproduce by releasing spores, and people with mold allergies react when they inhale these airborne, microscopic spores. Molds grow anywhere that is damp. Outdoor molds grow on dead leaves and other plant materials, while indoor molds most often grow in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and basements.
2. Mold Teams With Other Allergies
Most of the people who get mold allergies are allergic to other things as well, such as pollen and house dust. The symptoms of mold allergy are similar to the symptoms of these other allergies, and include sinusitis, runny nose, itchy eyes, coughing and sneezing. Some people with asthma experience asthma attacks when exposed to allergenic molds.
3. When Symptoms Go Beyond Allergy
Occasionally people develop more serious illnesses from inhaling mold spores. For example, spores of molds called aspergillus can lodge in the lungs of people who have damaged lungs or depressed immune systems. These spores can cause infection. Similarly mold spores sometimes inflame the lungs and breathing passages of people with asthma. However, these illnesses are rare, while simple allergy is more common.
4. You Can Find Relief
The treatment of mold allergy is similar to that for hay fever and other respiratory allergies. Antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays can help. So can asthma inhalers and steroid nasal treatments. Unfortunately immunotherapy, in which the person gets regular allergy shots, is usually not nearly as helpful for mold allergies as for other respiratory allergies.
5. Prevention is the Best Cure
The best way to manage mold allergies is to avoid exposure to the allergenic molds. There are a few things you can do both inside and outside that will help. Minimize or remove sources of mold in the house. Keep bathtubs, showers and sinks scrubbed. A bleach solution kills mold. Use a dehumidifier in the basement or laundry room and keep furnace and air conditioner filters clean. Remove leaves and other decomposing plant material from near the house. Keep rain gutters clear of wet leaves. When you are working outside, raking leaves or dealing with other dead vegetation, wear a dust mask. Mold spore counts are higher at night and during damp weather conditions. Stay inside and close the windows during those times.
