Allergies to Moss

Moss is a simple plant that lacks the normal plant structure of roots, stems or even leaves. Moss usually grows in moist places on rocks, trees, concrete or just about anywhere that is wet and not regularly disturbed. Allergies to moss are not common and are typically contact-driven reactions--moss releases few spores or other air-borne allergens that commonly result in allergic reactions from other plants.

Types

• Allergies to moss are usually the result of direct contact with moss or with moss by-products included in manufactured items such as cosmetics. Common types of moss allergies come from peat moss--this is commonly found in hays and mulches and commercial peat moss products so gardeners are particularly at risk. Oak moss is used in the perfume industry for its deep, woody scent. When made into an absolute, oak moss can cause an allergic reaction in some people sensitive to histamines. Sphagnum moss can contain a fungus that induces a skin allergy and can lead to Sporotrichosis infection.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of a peat moss allergy are similar to those of hay fever--sore eyes, runny nose and sneezing, wheezing lungs and coughing. Oak moss allergy, according to Wrong Diagnosis is associated with nausea, light-headedness, eczema, anaphylactic shock and asthma-like symptoms. Allergies to sphagnum moss and the fungal infection that can be caught by contact with it include ulcerations on the skin and sever skin irritations.

Frequency

• Cases of allergies to moss are few and far between. Because mosses are generally non-allergic most people can touch or work with moss without any side effect. Allergies to oak moss by-products are more frequent given their wide use in cosmetics; however, even this is not as frequent as allergies to other cosmetic components.

Prevention

• Preventing allergic reactions to moss start with wearing protective clothing when handling any mulch or hays or gardening. Moss allergies are contact-driven, so wear long-sleeved shirts, gardening gloves and protective footwear. If you know you have an allergy to oak moss, read the label of perfumes and perfumed cosmetics to prevent an allergic reaction.

Treatment

• Sporotrichosis from an allergy to sphagnum moss and the associated infection is treated with potassium iodide in an oral form, as stated on Medicine Net. Allergies to peat moss and oak moss are treated with antihistamines, skin irritation creams, ventilators or corticosteroids, depending of the type and severity of symptoms.