An allergic reaction to the fungi mold occurs when the human immune system responds to the spores that are inhaled. Common allergy symptoms include itchy eyes, coughing, runny nose, and sneezing. Symptoms vary by individual and range from mild to severe. Some people have seasonal symptoms while others are in misery year-round. Getting rid of mold should address this allergy and prevent related health issues from developing.
What Causes Symptoms of Mold Allergies
Responses from an overly-sensitive immune system are the main triggers of allergy symptoms. When individuals with this allergy inhale these spores, their bodies see these as foreign substances and send antibodies into battle. These antibodies are what cause the allergic symptoms. Our bodies continue to create antibodies after initial exposure to the substance. Subsequent contact with the spores causes an immune system reaction that triggers the release of histamine that causes the allergy symptoms.
Though there are many types of this fungi, not all of them cause allergies. In addition, a person who is allergic to one type may not experience any allergic symptoms when exposed to another. This makes it difficult to diagnose the condition. Therefore, anyone suffering from a persistent stuffy nose, watery eyes, and sneezing should consult a doctor for diagnosis.
Mold Allergy Symptoms Are Not the Only Problems
An allergic reaction is the most common response to exposure but these fungi can also cause irritant reactions, infections, and even toxic reactions. An irritant reaction occurs when the volatile organic compounds in the fungi irritate mucus membranes. Symptoms are similar to allergic reactions but may also include skin irritation and headaches.
Infections resulting from exposure can lead to infected skin, flu-like conditions, and pneumonia. Toxic reactions result from excessive exposure to mycotoxins in the fungi. Symptoms include skin and eye irritation, breathing difficulties, headaches, dizziness, nervousness, extreme fatigue, trouble concentrating, and flu-like reactions. A family history of allergies, a high-exposure occupation such as farming, and living in a poorly-ventilated home are several conditions that increase risk.
Avoiding exposure to mold is the best treatment for this type of allergy and related health issues. There is not yet a cure for the allergy but antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, oral and nasal spray decongestants, and other medications can reduce symptoms. If visual identification or home testing reveals that fungi are present in the house, removing them through a process of do-it-yourself or professional remediation is also recommended.
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