Mold Allergy

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    Molds are microscopic organisms also known as fungi, found almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Fungus reproduce through spores spread by water, insects or air modes. They're so minute and lightweight they can float in the air like pollen, for details. An allergy to mold is in reality a mold spore allergy.  

When inhaled, symptoms and signs of mold allergy are mentioned below:  

• nose and sinus congestion 
• sore throat 
• excessive sneezing
• watery, red, or burning eyes 
• dry cough 
• shortness of breath, chest tightness
• irritation of the nose, throat, or even skin 

     What makes fungal spores very harmful to individuals with asthma is mostly a mystery.Experts believe that the small size of mold spores allows them to pass more readily into the lower airways, where they can initiate an asthma attack. Also mold spores may also interact with other allergens and environmental air pollution, thus increasing the asthma risk from those substances by manyfolds. For details regarding mold allergy and asthma cure , read here. In addition to fungal allergy, individuals also can have an irritant response to some of the volatile chemicals that molds release into the air.  

To test for a fungal allergy, the doctor will take a comprehensive medical history in details and ask you about your symptoms and their  occurance. Mold allergy tests include:  

Skin prick tests – Droplets of fungal allergens are placed on the skin surface with minute prick. Raised bumps (about the size of a mosquito bite) and their size of elevation may indicate an allergy to that substance.

Blood tests/ In vitro allergy tests – Chemical testing detecting Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies present in your blood that are directed at specific allergens. Lab reports may take few days. A blood sample is sent to a pathology laboratory, where it can be tested for sensitivity to specific types of mold. 

The doctor should put all the evidence together – test results, your personal and family health history, home and working environments, activities which might expose you to allergens, a physical examination of your eyes, ears, nose and lungs – before concluding a diagnosis.

Yes, you can have an indoor mold allergy or outdoor fungal allergy – or both. If you are allergic to mold, you will need to learn where it grows and how to avoid it.  

Outdoor mold grows in dark, damp places and is seen under fallen leaves and in rotting vegetation in gardens. The peak season for fungus differs in different parts of the country:  

Indoor mold can grow on any organic surface and is found in moist areas such as: 

• basements
• terrace storage areas
• under-sink cabinets 
• refrigerators 
• garbage containers 
• washing machines and clothes dryers 
• damp window moldings
• shower areas and shower curtains 

Reducing mold inside your home 

• To reduce mold inside your home, eliminate the conditions they need to grow:  moisture, darkness, and poor ventilation.

How can you remove mold? 

• First, identify the source of the moisture that is allowing the mold to grow and fix the source if you can. Remove any carpet or drywall that has had mold growing on it. If the mold is extensive, you may need to hire a mold remediation contractor.  
• Following cleaning, a dehumidifier is often useful in not allowing mold to regrow, Options for dehumidifiers are available here.  

Fungal allergy treatments include over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants. These common allergy medications can decrease or clear symptoms of runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and congestion. 

It may be best to take these medications as a priority when you know you may be around mold spores. Before starting any medication, consult with your doctor or allergist.