Allergy to Mold

About this topic

Molds are a type of germ known as a fungus. They make spores which float in the air like pollen. Some spores come in dry and windy weather. You may find mold many places outside. It grows on rotten logs and compost piles. It also grows in piles of grass or grains and on fallen leaves. Mold grows inside too. Mold grows fast when moisture is present. It is found in damp places like the bathroom or kitchen. ‚
Many people are allergic to mold. It happens when your body reacts to breathing in mold spores. Your body thinks the mold spore is something that may harm you. Then, your body attacks it by mistake. This causes your body to let loose chemicals into your blood. The chemicals can cause problems with many parts of your body. ‚

What are the causes?

A mold allergy is caused when your immune system treats a harmless substance from a mold as a threat. Chemicals are released which cause signs of an allergic response. ‚

What can make this more likely to happen?

Your family history may raise your risk for a mold allergy. You are at a higher risk for a mold allergy if someone in your family has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
Working in places that expose you to molds like farming, millwork, and logging
Living or working in places that are very humid or have a lot of moisture
Living in places with poor ventilation
Being in damp areas like the kitchen, basement, and bathroom

What are the main signs?

Skin reaction:
- Itchy skin
- Skin rashes and redness
- Hives
- Itchy, red, and watery eyes
- Itchy nose and throat
Nose and chest reaction:
- Stuffy and runny nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing
Lung reactions:
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing
- Trouble sleeping

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?

Your doctor will talk to you about your history. Your doctor will ask about: ‚

Any history of allergies in you or your family
Your signs and when they started
If you have other illnesses like asthma, flu, and colds

Your doctor will do an exam and may look for: ‚

Skin rashes or redness
Swelling of the eyes, nose, or face
Breathing problems

Your doctor may do special tests to learn more about your allergies. ‚

Skin test ¢ ˆ ’ The doctor will scratch or inject a small amount of molds into your skin. If you are allergic to molds, you will see redness or other skin reactions.
Blood tests ¢ ˆ ’ Your doctor will take a blood sample to check how your immune system responds to molds.

How does the doctor treat this health problem?

Your doctor will give you drugs to treat mold allergy and control signs.
Treatment will depend on the type of signs.
The doctor will suggest you avoid areas where mold is likely.
The doctor will talk to you about allergy prevention.

Are there other health problems to treat?

Mold spores can cause other problems that need to be treated. This may include things like: ‚

Skin infection
Lung infection or other lung problems
Sinus problems
Allergic asthma

What lifestyle changes are needed?

Take extra care with your food. Check for signs of molds. Avoid smelling foods that might already be spoiled. Choose your food carefully. Avoid common food sources of mold. These include cheese, mushrooms, sour cream, sour milk, and buttermilk.
Avoid cool and damp weather, especially at night. This is when there is the most mold.
Close windows when you go to sleep at night. This will help keep out outdoor molds.
Avoid going outdoors after a rainstorm or when your area has foggy or damp weather.
Always wear a face mask when you rake leaves, mow your lawn, or work near compost areas.
Repair leaks in your home.

What drugs may be needed?

The doctor may order drugs to: ‚

Control mold allergy
Treat and prevent swelling
Relieve itching
Ease nasal stuffiness

Will there be any other care needed?

Wear a medic alert ID. Make sure that you carry your emergency drugs all the time.
Know all the areas and sources of molds. Keep these areas clean and dry.
- Closets and store rooms
- Refrigerator
- Cabinets below your sink
- Washing machines
- Dryer vents
- Garbage cans
- Carpets
Stay away from areas where molds are common and active.
Clean clothes that may have mold with soap and water.
Keep rooms dry by using a dehumidifier. Use an air conditioner if there are high humidity levels outside. Try to install a HEPA filter that traps molds from outdoor air.
Practice proper sanitation. Clean and throw away sources of dampness like water pails and fountains in your basement, kitchen, and bathrooms. Fix water or plumbing leaks right away.
Remove or avoid indoor houseplants. Molds can grow on leaves and potting soil. Get rid of all dead plants, falling leaves, and other plants that may get damp around your home.

What can be done to prevent this health problem?

There is no sure way to prevent a mold allergy. You may be able to lower the amount of mold in your house. ‚

Clean and change filters and air conditioners regularly.
Be sure to have ventilation in your bathroom and basement. Open the ventilation fan during and after shower or bath use.
Throw away or store old books, clothing, or bedding the right way.

Where can I learn more?

Allergist ‚
http://www.acaai.org/allergist/allergies/Types/Pages/mold-allergies.aspx ‚
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America ‚
http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=8&sub=16&cont=58 ‚

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚

Home

Erectile Dysfunction

Doctor123.org