Why Molds Trigger Allergies 

Molds can pose severe dangers to health. This is especially true for infants. Children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised. Unfortunately, molds can lurk everywhere. A home may be spotless, but molds can grow where the naked eye cannot see them. Some of these places are behind walls or on under sink cabinets. And while they might be out of sight, these molds and their spores can still wreak havoc unto the health and wellness of everyone in the household. Mighty Dry San Diego CA

If and when a person is fortunate enough to live in a mold-free environment, he can still be subjected to mold woes. Offices and schools, as well as areas commonly frequented by people like gyms, daycares, and the like, could have mold problems too. Thus, it is not that easy to avoid molds. And the only way to prevent contracting illnesses due to it is by being aware of its proliferation and doing something about it. Santee 24 Hours Water Damage

One of the ways molds make a person feel ill is by triggering allergies. Some people who may have allergic rhinitis or bronchial asthma may be allergic to mold spores. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America explained how some people’s allergies get triggered by molds. 

“Inhaling the spores causes allergic reactions in some people. Allergic symptoms from fungus spores are most common from July to early fall. But fungi grow in many places, both indoors and outside, so allergic reactions can occur year-round. Although there are many types of molds, only a few dozen cause allergic reactions. Many molds grow on rotting logs and fallen leaves, in compost piles, and on grasses and grains. Unlike pollens, molds do not die with the first killing frost. Most outdoor molds become inactive during the winter. In the spring, they grow on plants killed by the cold. Indoors, fungi grow in damp areas. They can often be found in the bathroom, kitchen, or basement.”

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SYMPTOMS OF MOLD ALLERGY

The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology says, a person should be mindful of the symptoms of a mold allergy. While other people are aware that they are allergic to molds, some do not have the slightest clue and continue to suffer through the symptoms. 

“Mold allergy symptoms can be similar to those of other respiratory allergies: nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, irritated eyes, coughing, wheezing, and itchy throat. Mold can also trigger or aggravate asthma symptoms. If you suspect you might have a mold allergy, or if you have similar symptoms that continue to persist, consult an allergist. Allergists are specially trained to help you take control of your allergies and asthma, so you can live the life you want. They can conduct skin or blood tests that help pinpoint the allergy.

In the case of mold allergies, you may be able to identify the source of the mold by tracking your symptoms over two weeks, along with where you’ve been. Exposure to mold allergies can occur just about anywhere — in the home, outdoors, or at work.”

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The Mayo Clinic, for its part, warns people with allergic rhinitis and asthma to be mindful of possible health complications mold allergies can bring. In its discussion on mold allergies, Mayo Clinic explained that while hay-fever like symptoms is common for those reeling from mold allergies, more severe illnesses can develop on others.

“Certain allergic conditions caused by mold are more severe. These include (1) Mold-induced asthma. In people allergic to mold, breathing in spores can trigger an asthma flare-up. If you have a mold allergy and asthma, be sure you have an emergency plan in place in case of a severe asthma attack. (2) Allergic fungal sinusitis. This results from an inflammatory reaction to fungus in the sinuses. (3) Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. This reaction to fungus in the lungs can occur in people with asthma or cystic fibrosis. (4) Hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This rare condition occurs when exposure to airborne particles such as mold spores causes the lungs to become inflamed. It may be triggered by exposure to allergy-causing dust at work.”

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Homeowners should immediately address mold problems to avoid triggering allergies.