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Mold & Fungus Allergies

Allergies likely cause us to avoid substances that trigger our symptoms. That might not be possible with mold and fungi, however, because they are essentially everywhere, indoors and out. Reactions to exposure vary, but treatment is available.

  1. Mold Vs. Fungal Allergies

    • Mold is a fungus but not all fungi are mold. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that other fungi (basidiomycetes) like mushrooms and toadstools can cause allergic responses, although less commonly than mold.

    The Fungal Life

    • To reproduce, many fungi release tiny spores into the air that drift on currents looking for suitable transportation, like insects, to carry them to moist, dark places to colonize and repeat the life cycle process.

    Respiratory Response

    • The Mayo Clinic notes if you have a fungal allergy and inhale spores, your immune system seeks to destroy the tiny invaders. This process produces symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, cough and hives. Exposure might induce an asthma exacerbation.

    Skin Reaction

    • Besides hives, the NIH notes that people with fungal allergies might develop eczema (itchy, red skin rash) with exposure, or experience flares of already existing eczema.

    Food Allergies

    • WebMD advises caution when eating foods that fungi enjoy (cheese, bread, buttermilk, etc.) because the fungi may be invisible to quick inspection. Symptoms of too much mold ingestion are typically similar to respiratory reactions.

    Treatment

    • Physicians use antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, decongestants, allergy shots, skin ointments or a combination of therapies to treat fungal allergies.

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