Mold & Yeast Allergies

Allergies occur when the body's immune system overreacts to harmless matter--such as pet dander, pollen or medicine--in the form of an allergic response. Symptoms vary from person to person but the most common are respiratory, digestive, or skin-related ailments.

Outdoor mold spores play a vital part in the ecosystem; indoor they can wreak havoc on a person's health. Indoor mold spores grow when moisture is present and are found in dust, air, walls and ceilings. Molds produce allergens and can therefore cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Yeast, according to the Columbia Encyclopedia, are a group of microscopic unicellular fungi often used in commercial food products and alcoholic fermentation. The American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology has disputed and criticized the existence of yeast allergies (candidiasis hypersensitivity syndrome.) As a result, there is a lack of sufficient, factual information regarding this possible condition.

Mold Allergies

• Everyday mold exposure is unavoidable and overall harmless. However, people with mold allergies may have a physical response if exposed to high levels of the fungus. Just as spores can easily grow in moist dark spaces, it can also grow on various types of food such as cheese, mushrooms, vinegar, dried fruits and smoked meats. Furthermore, mold spores are also more likely to grow on products that contain high amounts of yeast like sour breads and pumpernickel.

  Fortunately, mold is often visible on the food's surface in the form of fuzzy green spots. Those allergic to mold should avoid all food with visible spores as well as the aforementioned foods.

Mold Allergy Symptoms

• The WebMD reports that symptoms of a mold allergy consist of wheezing, itchy eyes, stuffy nose and skin irritations like a rash or hives. Physical signs of an allergic response differ among individuals and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms are often noticed when high concentrations are present or when the weather is damp.

Mold Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment

• An allergists or physician will perform a skin prick test or a blood test to determine mold as the allergen. If either tests come back positive for a mold allergy, there are several types of medications available for symptomatic relief. Nasal sprays, antihistamines and decongestants are widely-used medications obtainable without a prescription. If symptoms persist, physicians can prescribe medications like Singulair or even inject allergy shots--also called immunotherapy.

Candidiasis Hypersensitivity Syndrome

• Intolerance to yeast is rare and often over-diagnosed by those who practice clinical ecology, according to Stephen Barrett, M.D. However, many practitioners believe yeast-related problems or allergies can trigger symptoms like irritability, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, mood swings, depression, anxiety, dizziness, weight gain, fatigue, muscle pain, cravings for sugar or alcoholic beverages, prostatitis, psoriasis, respiratory and ear problems, hives, menstrual problems, infertility, impotence and bladder infections.

Treatment for a Yeast Intolerance

• Elimination of foods and beverages containing the fungi is the most effective method for symptomatic relief. If symptoms persist, there may be another underlying cause and sufferers' should contact their doctor immediately.