Mold Allergies

A mold allergy is an allergic reaction caused by mold spores or fungi which occur in individuals whose immune system overreacts when they come in contact with these allergens. Mold spores or fungi can be airborne or contained in certain foods and cause reactions which are mild to severe when the individual breathes in or ingests the mold.

The symptoms of an allergic reaction to mold are very similar to those which occur in other common upper respiratory allergies such as seasonal allergies or hay fever. These symptoms can include itchy watery eyes, sneezing, wheezing, coughing, and hives.

Airborne mold spores are extremely common outside as well as inside and can be more prevalent outside at certain times of the year, when there is a lot of moisture in the air, or in certain structures where there is a high concentration of mold.

Certain foods which contain mold and cause an allergic reaction when ingested to those who are sensitive include, foods which contain yeast, mushrooms, cheese, and certain dairy products.

It is essential that individuals with a mold allergies do not consume any foods which are spoiled or soured and that they do not attempt to check foods which are suspected of being spoiled by smelling them as this can cause mold spores to be inhaled setting off an allergic reaction.

Individuals with an allergy to mold may experience symptoms which are worse if they are employed in certain occupations such as agricultural, baking, winemaking, and any type of work which involves the use of certain lumber or wood.

Buildings which have had an exposure to moisture for a long period time including homes with a high humidity level tend to have a very high concentration of mold as it grows very easily under these conditions.

While the best treatment for a mold allergy is to avoid the allergen, this can be very difficult to do as mold is very common and extremely hard to avoid all together.

If you experience mild allergy symptoms due to mold there are many medications which you can purchase over the counter to relieve the symptoms. For frequent and severe cases of mold allergies, consult with your physician about other available treatment options.