How to Recognize and Treat Mold Allergies?

Answer 1

Mold Allergies, unlike hay fever or pollen allergies, can occur year-round. Although many allergies can be treated temporarily with over-the-counter medication, it doesn’t address the underlying condition. Because the symptoms of mold allergies can be similar to other allergic reactions (congestion, itching, sneezing), it is important to have the type of allergy properly diagnosed so the correct treatment program can be determined.

The best way to diagnose an allergy is to see an allergist, a doctor trained in diagnosing and treating allergic conditions. There are several skin prick tests used to diagnose what specific allergies you may have; the first level recognizes the most severe allergies, and the next level which recognizes less severe but still medically relevant allergies. Prior to your appointment, you will be instructed to refrain from taking medication such as antihistamines or decongestants, that could mask your symptoms or cause a false reading on the allergy tests. Generally, it is recommended that you quit taking these medications at least 3 days prior to your appointment.

Once diagnosed, a treatment plan is established. This usually involves a combination of removing the allergen as much as possible, medication (often in both nasal spray and tablet forms) and, if appropriate, allergy shots to raise the patient’s allergic threshold. Depending on the type, mold allergies may not respond as well to allergy shots than do allergies to animal dander or pollen. Often in mold allergy treatment, the best method is to minimize exposure to the irritant. Mold thrives in warm, damp environments; eliminating this environment will significantly reduce mold’s ability to propagate. It is best to reduce the level of humidity indoors to 45 percent or below by using a dehumidifier, and by adding a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter to air conditioning units in order to trap spores before they can be released. Make sure rooms that are commonly damp (bathroom, basements) are properly ventilated, and clean surfaces with a bleach solution to kill mold spores.

Although allergies cannot be cured, properly diagnosing and treating a mold allergy can minimize symptoms and help to avoid health-related complications, such as sinusitis, Asthma, or even more severe respiratory problems.