What Are the Symptoms of Ragweed and Mold Allergies?

Symptoms of mold and ragweed allergies are similar, though the culprit, or allergen, is different. With both allergies, sufferers tend to have upper respiratory symptoms triggered by exposure to either ragweed pollen or mold spores.

Ragweed Allergy Symptoms

• Ragweed allergy symptoms tend to peak in late summer. They may include nasal discharge and sneezing, stuffy nose, itchy eyes and throat, headache and sinusitis.

Mold Allergy Symptoms

• Unlike ragweed allergy symptoms, which tend to be seasonal, mold allergy symptoms can persist throughout the year. They can include sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, runny nose and congestion and cough.

Mold Allergy Symptoms and Asthma

• Mold allergy sufferers who also have asthma can suffer serious asthma attacks if a mold spore reaches the lungs and becomes an irritant. This can cause wheezing and shortness of breath, and may require immediate medical treatment.

Treatment

• Treatments for both mold and ragweed allergy symptoms may include over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants or prescription nasal sprays, called corticosteroids. Ragweed and mold allergy sufferers may undergo a series of allergy shots, in an effort to build up immunity to the allergens.

Prevention/Solution

• Prevention of mold and ragweed allergy symptoms involves limiting exposure to the allergy triggers, including mold spores and ragweed pollen. Keeping track of the pollen or mold spore count and staying indoors during peak count times may help the allergy sufferer avoid symptoms.