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Residential Mold Allergy Symptoms

Mold, a common allergy trigger, can be especially problematic if it is present where you live. If you frequently wheeze, sneeze and have itchy, watery eyes while in your home, you may have a mold allergy. Molds thrive in damp areas of the house, such as bathrooms and basements. Symptoms of a mold allergy can be relieved by getting rid of the mold through vigorous cleaning and prevention.

  1. Significance

    • Mold is a major cause of indoor allergies. These tiny fungi release spores into the air that can cause allergy symptoms if inhaled. Molds can also trigger an asthma attack in certain individuals. Unlike seasonal allergens, such as pollen, molds in your home can be present year round, and, unless removed, they can cause significant health problems and negatively affect your quality of life.

    Facts

    • Residential molds are most likely to be found in damp areas like basements and bathrooms. However, molds may also live in attics, refrigerators, garbage cans and upholstery. Molds are especially common around cracks in walls, areas around leaky plumbing, on the back of damp carpeting and anywhere where water damage has occurred. Aspergillus and penicillium are two common indoor molds.

    Signs

    • Molds can cause a variety of symptoms in allergic individuals, including sneezing, itchy, watery eyes and clear nasal discharge. If you have asthma, these symptoms may also include wheezing, coughing, trouble breathing and shortness of breath. A doctor can do blood or skin testing to determine if you truly have a mold allergy.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Aggressive cleaning can prevent your mold allergy symptoms. Mix ¾ cup of bleach with a gallon of water and apply to mildewed area. Let this solution sit for 5 minutes, then rinse and let dry. You can also spray straight vinegar on the moldy area. To prevent mold from returning, keep all areas of your home dry and well ventilated, especially bathrooms and basements, use a vacuum with a HEPA air filter and run a dehumidifier.

    Treatment

    • While removing mold from your home is the most effective way to address residential mold allergy symptoms, a variety of medical treatments are also available. Allergy shots can treat mold allergy in people whose symptoms are severe and persistent. Over-the-counter medicines like antihistamines and nasal sprays can also reduce your symptoms. A doctor can tell you which treatments will be most effective for your mold allergy.

    Warning

    • Airing out your home by opening windows and doors may seem like a good way to combat a residential mold allergy. However, this strategy can actually make your allergy symptoms worse by letting outdoor allergens like pollen and other molds inside. Instead, use dehumidifiers, air conditioning and HEPA air filters to deal with mold in your home. Always wear a dust mask when cleaning mold to limit the number of spores you inhale.

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