Symptoms of Mold Allergy

If you have persistent allergy symptoms, which become worst especially during humid weather, you may be allergic to mold. Most people do not even know that they are allergic to mold, as mold allergy triggers the same symptoms that happen in other types of upper respiratory allergies. These symptoms include

- Wheezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Nasal congestion
- Cough
- Irritated eyes, nose and throat
- Postnasal drip

Mold allergy symptoms differ from one person to another. When 2 perfectly healthy persons are stationed in the same environment, they may react differently to the mold exposure. One may start having watery eyes, itchy nose and throat; while the other person may not have any symptom at all. In some people, exposure to certain types of mold can even trigger serious asthma attack and cause breathing difficulties. Infants, small children, elderly and the sick are more likely to develop reactions towards mold exposure.

Mold allergy can happen all year round, and is particularly severe during humid seasons.
Mold thrives on moisture and it can grow anywhere indoor or outdoor where there is sufficient moisture. Common breeding grounds for indoor mold include basement, bathroom, kitchen, crawl space, attic, damp carpet, behind the wall, etc. Mold spores are so tiny that they can easily get into our body when settle on our foods, drinks, skin, and / or get inhaled. They are very hazardous and certain types of mold produce poisonous compounds that irritate the upper respiratory system.

If you experience pro-long symptoms of coughing, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes and throat that don't seem to recover over the medications prescribed, see an allergist to diagnose for mold allergy. Most of the time, these symptoms will improve when the mold source is removed. However, for those who have been exposed to mold for longer period of time, they may never recover as mold might have severely damaged the internal system. This is not a minimal problem; if you suspect to have mold allergy symptoms, consult your doctor as soon as possible. Get diagnosed early and if mold is the root cause for your allergy reactions, solving excessive moisture and reduce mold exposure will often improve the conditions.

Reducing mold exposure

1. Mold testing
Test your house for mold. You may need a moisture meter to test for the moisture level within your house. Remember that moisture is the cause for mold growth.

2. Find mold
Mold can be easily detected by its physical characteristics. Molds commonly appear as greenish or blackish patches on the surface. You will also find strong musty smells in areas with mold growth. Do not touch molds with your bare hands; they are poisonous.

3. Fix the sources of moisture
Locate the sources of moisture that contribute to the growth of indoor mold. Fix and repair any leaking pipelines, roofs, and plumbing.

4. Check for hidden molds
Molds can be hidden inside the wall. You can usually detect hidden mold by its musty odor, even when you can't see it. If mold grows inside drywall, you need to remove and replace the drywall.

5. Wash off mold
For molds grow on hard surfaces like counter top, tiles, floors, tub and glass, you can wash it off with detergent and water. Scrub hard with a sturdy brush to remove stubborn surface mold. Other non-toxic mold removal products like vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are also good for cleaning molds. When you are done with mold cleaning, allow the areas to dry thoroughly.

6. Dry is the key
Always dry damp areas and materials immediately within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth. You may consider replacing a severely soaked carpet due to flooding as it is not easy to dry a carpet completely unless with the professional help. Do not lay carpets in areas with excessive moisture.

7. Disposal of contaminated materials
Dispose off porous materials that are severely contaminated like woods, drywall, carpeting. Pull out the materials carefully and seal them in a strong plastic bag for disposal.

8. Regulate indoor humidity
Control the humidity level with the use of a dehumidifier. Exhaust fans are good at venting bathrooms and kitchens. Install a good ventilation system to provide better air circulation.

9. Safety measures
If you are planning to implement mold removal yourself, remember to put on protective gears like goggles, face mask, and rubber gloves. Discard the tools used for the cleaning of mold like brush, gloves, etc. Wear disposable clothing and throw it away after the mold removal process. Don't wash any mold-infected clothing with your other laundry to prevent mold spores from spreading.

10. Regular cleaning and mold inspection
Mold is a stubborn fungus. It is not easy to remove mold entirely. It will always find chance to invade your house again. Therefore, regular mold inspection is very important. Look for possible leakage and test the indoor moisture level to help prevent mold growth. Frequent cleaning of areas like shower room, bathroom and kitchen can reduce the food source for mold. Diminish the ideal condition for mold to thrive on and you can keep mold at bay.