Living With Mold Allergies
Mold allergies affect a large number of people, usually from the early spring into middle to late summer. Chances are if you are allergic to pollen, then mold is going to cause you problems.
Just like pollen, mold allergies are brought on when mold spores, or microscopic seeds, become airborne. When these spores are inhaled, they are small enough to get past the nose’s natural defenses. When this happens the spores can invade the lungs, which may lead to allergic rhinitis, which is an inflammation of the mucus membranes of the nose. Some people who suffer from mold allergies may notice symptoms when eating certain foods, like mushrooms or cheese, when mold spores are prevalent.
Where Does Mold Grow?
Mold requires warmth and moisture to grow. That is why we are constantly warned to check our basements and showers and any other dark and wet places in our houses. Any time you suspect you have a water leak in your house, it is best to clean the area thoroughly and inspect for mold. Outdoors, mold grows best in warm climates with high agricultural production, which is why people from the southeast and Midwest who suffer from mold allergies may be miserable all year round. Mold is common in many food-related industries, like dairies and bakeries. Those with mold allergies may want to avoid such work.
How To Identify Mold Allergies
The symptoms identified with mold allergies are roughly the same as those of a cold. If you have a cough, runny nose, are sneezing, and suffer from itchy eyes, then you just might have a cold, or you may suffer from mold allergies. A doctor will have to perform some basic tests to determine which it is. Unfortunately, there is no cure for those of us with mold allergies, but the symptoms can be managed with medication, and, in some cases, immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy is, basically, allergy shots. However, this is no ordinary shot you receive one time and the doctor proclaims you cured. Immunotherapy can take several years, and even then the benefits might only last a few years. It is also not a promise of a complete cure, but rather a noticeable decrease in symptoms. But the fact is those who suffer from excessive symptoms related to mold allergies are generally willing to endure immunotherapy as a means to relieve their suffering.
While mold allergies can cause a certain level of discomfort, they are usually something you can learn to live with.
