Mildew & Mold Allergies

Mold and mildew are usually mentioned together in reference to the fuzzy fungi found on food and shower curtains. While the cause and appearance of these two types of fungus are similar, they are in fact different. Mold can be found on moist or decaying surfaces---think basement walls or old food---and ranges in color from blue to red to black. Mildew is a powdery or fuzzy fungus found mostly in showers and windowsills and is gray or white in color. Though their color and texture may differ, they are both a hazard for those with mold allergies.

Cause

• Fungi reproduce by spreading spores through the air. An allergy occurs when your immune system overreacts to the presence of the fungi spore. It treats the substance as an invader and creates antibodies to defend the body against them. At the next appearance of the spores, your immune system releases chemicals such as histamine, which causes allergic symptoms such as watery eyes and sneezing.

Risk Factors

• An allergy can occur in any person, regardless of age, race or gender. There are some risk factors that increase your chances of developing a mold allergy, including frequent exposure to mold at your job or in your home. Genetics can also play a role in who develops allergies, as they can run in families. Other sensitivities such as pet dander and pollen can make you more susceptible to developing a mold allergy.

Symptoms

• Allergic reactions tend to appear very similar regardless of the trigger, as it's the body's response to the released chemicals that causes the symptoms. Common symptoms include itchy eyes and nose, sinus inflammation and stuffy nose. Watery eyes and sneezing are also common allergic reactions. More serious reactions can cause airway restriction and asthma triggers.

Diagnosis

• After your doctor conducts a physical examination and complete medical history, a skin prick test is often performed to determine whether you are allergic to mold and mildew. In this test, a diluted amount of the suspected allergen is applied to your skin in tiny punctures, usually on your forearm or back. The tiny pricks are then observed for reaction. If you are allergic to the fungi, your skin will develop a hive, or raised bump, where the allergen touched it.

Treatment

• Treatment of an allergy often includes over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines and decongestants to reduce the severity and discomfort of symptoms. More severe allergic reactions may require a prescription of corticosteroid nasal sprays from your doctor. Some people don't respond well to these methods and receive allergy shots to control symptoms.