Many people deal with itchy eyes and runny noses during the spring, when pollen levels are high. However, if you experience those symptoms no matter what time of year, you may have an allergy to mold.
Mold Allergy Symptoms
The symptoms of a mold allergy are similar to other nasal allergy symptoms. These can include any or all of the following:
- itchy nose, eyes or throat.
- runny nose or watery eyes.
- wheezing and coughing.
- sneezing and nasal congestion.
People who have allergy-triggered asthma may also find that their symptoms get worse when they are in the presence of mold.
Managing Mold Allergies
A number of people find some relief by using antihistamines. There are a number of brands on the market. Some have ingredients that can cause drowsiness. Others have non-drowsy formulations, but may not be as effective at treating symptoms. Many people wind up trying a few before finding an effective treatment for them.
The best way to handle allergy symptoms, however, is to avoid the materials that trigger them. Just as someone with a grass allergy should not be outdoors when the lawn is being mowed, a person with mold allergies should avoid mold exposure.
Is mold dangerous to people who aren’t allergic?
In general, only people who have mold allergies will have allergic reactions to most strains of mold. However, research has shown that there are strains of toxic black mold that can cause reactions even in people who do not have typical mold allergies.
Toxic black mold can cause headaches, sore throat, breathing problems and other issues even in people who have not previously had issues when exposed to mold.
How do people get exposed to mold?
Mold spores are present just about everywhere. These “seeds” lay in waiting for just the right conditions to grow. Anywhere there is dampness, mold can grow. You may see it in bathrooms where there is not enough ventilation to keep mold from growing.
It can also develop unseen in basements, in closets, behind furniture, under floors and behind walls. Often, you cannot tell that mold is present just by sight and smell alone.
What can you do about mold?
If your home has been colonized by mold, it may require the services of a professional mold removal company to remove it. They can eradicate mold then help you keep it from reoccurring.
Could your house have a dangerous mold infestation? Contact the mold removal company Ridgefield trusts. We’ll perform testing to see if mold is present, then move on to the best ways to eradicate it from your home.
AWARDS & AFFILIATIONS
