Mold Allergy:Symptoms and mold spores
Mold Allergy is a very common problem since contact with mold can occur anywhere at any time. Mold is a living organism that’s hard to avoid. It’s actually a type of fungus which breaks down dead material in order to return nutrients to the environment. Anywhere you find animal or plant matter like wood, paper, food or even dirt you’ll find mold spores lurking and growing. Mold is especially fond of dark spaces like the shadows or a forest, basements, or shady spot where garbage cans are being stored. This is why mold allergy is so common.
You’re exposed to mold almost all the time. Usually this isn’t a problem. Sometimes however the body can mistakenly identify something in the environment like mold as a threat. This mistaken threat is called an allergen. Naturally, the body tries to eliminate the allergen the same way it would a virus or bacteria. This reaction to the fungus among us is where all the suffering the person affected by mold allergy starts.
The body in attempting to rid itself of the mold allergen begins manufacturing an overload of the chemical histamine. This will result in the inflammation, and other symptoms someone with mold allergy endures.
Some symptoms of a mold allergy are:
Sneezing
Wheezing
Runny nose
Clogged nasal passages
A rash or hives
Itchy or water eyes
The big problem with mold allergy is there’s almost no way to avoid mold. You can careful check all food for mold before eating it, but take care not do check for freshness by smelling the food closely. Inhaling deeply around mold will only set off an attack of the mold allergy. You can try to avoid places like the basement, laundry areas or shadowy places where mold is likely to be growing, but since mold spores are airborne this can only have a limited effect.
Common foods to avoid would be:
Sour cream
Breads made with yeast
Dried fruit
Cheese
Mushrooms
Aged meats
Soy sauce
Sauerkraut
Sausages or hot dogs
Over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs contain antihistamine and decongestants will help combat the symptoms of mold allergy.