Sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, itchy throat, congestion, coughing, and headache – you know these miserable allergy symptoms all too well. But are they caused by seasonal allergies or mold, a common trigger for allergy symptoms? Seasonal allergies are often triggered by pollen, microscopic grains used by plants for fertilization. On the other hand, mold and mildew are fungi that release spores into the air, which can enter your nose and lungs when you breathe. Finding relief depends on identifying the type of allergies you have so that you can take the most effective medication.
Dr. Mia Finkelston, an expert in treating allergies, shares 5 surprising facts about mold allergies and how to determine if it might be causing your symptoms.
- Mold thrives in hot and humid environments, including wet places like the beach, damp forests, and even indoor areas like your bathroom, basement, or under the kitchen sink.
- A mold allergy can trigger asthma, leading to symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness, and wheezing. While outdoor mold mainly causes symptoms from summer to early fall, indoor mold can cause year-round symptoms. Some individuals experience a delayed reaction to mold, meaning their congestion or asthma symptoms may worsen over time. It’s important to note that most homes have some level of mold in the air, even if it’s not visible, which can contribute to allergy symptoms.
- To control mold, regularly check your home for mold growth, promptly clean up any standing water, use a bathroom fan while showering, and thoroughly wash moldy surfaces with detergent and water.
- Additionally, consider removing carpeting from your bathroom and basement, keeping wet leaves away from your house, and regularly cleaning your house gutters.
- If you’re unsure whether your allergy symptoms are linked to mold, it’s crucial to consult a doctor.
References:
- American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Fighting fall allergies? Bring it. https://acaai.org/news/fighting-fall-allergies-bring-it
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Mold Allergy. https://www.aafa.org/mold-allergy
- National Institute of Health. Cold, Flu, or Allergy? Know the Difference for Best Treatment. https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2014/10/cold-flu-or-allergy
- S. News and World Report. Mold Is Everywhere: Is it Causing My Allergies? https://health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/2018-09-18/mold-is-everywhere-is-it-causing-my-allergies
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