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Reactions to Mold & Mildew

Mold and mildew thrive both indoors and out and can be found in damp, moist areas. If you suffer from allergies to mold and mildew, your body reacts in a hypersensitive way when it comes in contact with spores. These reactions can appear in a variety of ways including hay fever, dermatitis, asthma and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. Being able to identify these reactions can help you treat your mold and mildew allergies.

  1. Hay fever

    • Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is one of the most common reactions to mold and mildew. When these spores are inhaled, hay fever symptoms such as sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, itchy nose and throat and/or coughing will occur. These reactions are typically treated with pills, nasal sprays and/or eye drops that come in the form of antihistamines and decongestants. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, medications are available over the counter or by prescription.

    Atopic dermatitis

    • Atopic dermatitis is another reaction that can occur when you come into contact with mold or mildew. This reaction begins with inflamed patches of skin, that eventually become red, scaly and extremely itchy. This condition, also known as eczema, can be treated with topical corticosteroids as well as with antihistamines. Medications are available over the counter and by prescription depending on your symptoms.

    Asthma

    • One of the most severe reactions to mold and mildew is asthma. Asthma is marked by the narrowing of airways to the lungs due to excessive inflammation. Symptoms of asthma include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing. If you are diagnosed with asthma, be sure to carry your fast-acting inhaler with you at all times. For those whose asthma is not under control, preventative medications such as corticosteroid inhalers may be prescribed to decrease inflammation and reduce the frequency of attacks.

    Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis

    • The most dangerous reaction to mold and mildew is allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. This rare reaction can occur to those already suffering from asthma or cystic fibrosis. Symptoms of this condition may appear like asthma, but can accompany a slight fever as well as bloody or brown specks in the mucus. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if these symptoms are present, as chronic lung damage may occur if left untreated. Corticosteroids and antifungal medications are often used to combat this condition.

    Prevention

    • Preventing exposure to mold and mildew is one of the best ways to limit reactions. Indoors, be sure to keep humidity levels low by installing ventilation fans and dehumidifiers in damp areas such as bathrooms and basements. Repair any plumbing leaks or clogged drains quickly, as mold and mildew tends to thrive in stagnant water. Also, remove any piles of old magazines or cut wood, as these are hotspots for mold and mildew to grow. Before heading outdoors, check online mold forecasts. When counts are high, limit your time outside. If you must be out in the garden, raking leaves or mowing your lawn, be sure to wear a protective mask to filter out mold and mildew spores.

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