Mold Allergy Overview
Molds are tiny fungi whose spores float through the air. They like dark, damp, warm environments and need four things to grow: food, air, warm environment and water. Molds can be found outdoors, in homes and in other buildings.
Everyone breathes in mold spores in the air, but some people have an allergic reaction or asthma symptoms if exposed to too much of this fungus.
If you are allergic to mold, your immune system is overly-sensitive to specific mold spores and treats them as an allergen. When you inhale the mold spores, your immune system triggers symptoms such as sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, nasal congestion or itchy nose, mouth and lips.
There are hundreds of types of molds, but not all of them are responsible for causing allergy symptoms. The most common allergy-causing molds include Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium and Penicillium.
Mold Allergy Symptoms & Diagnosis
Symptoms
Many people allergic to mold develop symptoms outdoors on days when mold spores are in the air. You may also have symptoms indoors if mold is in your home, school or workplace.
Symptoms of mold allergy include
- Itchy nose, mouth and lips
- Sneezing
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Mold can also trigger asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath or chest tightness.
Diagnosis
Symptoms of mold allergy often mimic symptoms of other conditions. An allergist / immunologist can diagnose whether mold is responsible for your symptoms. Skin prick tests give accurate results in just a few minutes. Your allergist may order other tests, if needed.
