Mold allergy

What is a Mold Allergy?
If you have a mold allergy, your immune system overreacts when you breathe in mold spores. Like other allergies (pollen or dust), it triggers a cascade of reactions causing sneezing, itching, and congestion.

In some people, mold allergy is linked to Asthma, and exposure can cause severe breathing difficulties.

Symptoms

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may occur year-round or only during damp weather. Common signs include:

• Sneezing and runny/stuffy nose.
• Cough and postnasal drip.
• Itchy eyes, nose, and throat.
• Watery eyes.
• Dry, scaly skin.

Mold-Induced Asthma

If you have asthma, mold spores can trigger a flare-up. Watch for:

• Wheezing.
• Shortness of breath.
• Chest tightness.

⚠️ ALLERGY VS. TOXICITY
Allergy: Immune response (sneezing, itching).
Irritant/Toxic Reaction: Caused by "Volatile Organic Compounds" or Mycotoxins from mold. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, extreme fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. This is not an allergy but a reaction to toxins.

Causes & Risk Factors

When you inhale tiny airborne spores, your body recognizes them as foreign invaders and produces antibodies to fight them. This releases histamine, causing symptoms.

Common Allergy-Causing Molds

• Alternaria
• Aspergillus
• Cladosporium
• Penicillium

Risk Factors

• Family History: If asthma or allergies run in your family.
• Occupation: Farming, dairy work, logging, baking, or carpentry.
• High Humidity Home: Indoor humidity above 60%.
• Poor Ventilation: Bathrooms and basements without airflow.

Complications

• Allergic Fungal Sinusitis: An inflammatory reaction to fungus in the sinuses.
• Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis: A severe reaction to fungus in the lungs, common in people with cystic fibrosis or asthma.
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Inflammation of the lungs caused by airborne particles.

Diagnosis

Doctors identify the specific mold causing your reaction via:

• Skin Prick Test: Diluted amounts of common molds are applied to the skin with tiny punctures. If a hive appears, you are allergic.
• Blood Test (IgE): Measures the immune system's response to mold by checking for specific antibodies in the bloodstream.

Treatment & Prevention

The best defense is reducing exposure, but medications help manage symptoms.

1. Medications

• Nasal Corticosteroids: (e.g., Flonase, Nasonex) The most effective treatment for inflammation.
• Antihistamines: (e.g., Zyrtec, Allegra) To stop itching and sneezing.
• Decongestants: (e.g., Sudafed) For stuffy noses. Note: Do not use nasal decongestant sprays for more than 3 days.
• Montelukast (Singulair): A pill that blocks immune chemicals; effective for allergic asthma.

2. Therapies

• Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots): Can be very effective for certain types of mold allergy.
• Nasal Lavage: Rinsing your nose daily with saline (Neti pot) to flush out spores.

3. Prevention (Crucial)

• Reduce indoor humidity below 50%.
• Fix leaky pipes immediately.
• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Remove carpets from damp basements.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.