Recognizing mold allergy symptoms helps determine if eradication techniques are required, as well as which treatments are appropriate. This wide-spread fungus reproduces by spreading its spores. They can be air-borne, or engulfed by raindrops, fog, and dew-drops. People with family histories of allergic reactions to dust mites, pollen, or pets are more likely to suffer from allergies to fungus.
A wide variety of fungi thrives in indoor and outdoor environments. Indoors, they are most common in humid areas, like bathrooms, houseplant soils, kitchens, and basements. Outdoors, they thrive among moist grains and grasses, dead leaves, and rotting wood. In cold weather, the fungus hibernates. In warmer weather, it is very active, and releases spores regularly. Indoors, it is active throughout the year. People who suffer from these allergies can have seasonal bouts, or year-round ailments when the fungus is inside.
There are several main types which are responsible for most mold allergy symptoms. They include pullularia or aureobasidium, epicoccum, fusarium, rhizopus, helmin thosporium, penicillin, mucor, and alternaria. Some workers are at higher risks of exposure to these fungi. They include green-house employees, furniture repair-people, carpenters, landscapers, farmers, loggers, dairy-people, and wine makers.
There are several physiological reactions that indicate a person is suffering from an allergic reaction. These include sneezing, runny nose, congestion, coughing, aching joints, fatigue, itchy skin, headaches, and respiratory irritation. When these spores become entrapped in nasal linings, hay-fever-type reactions commonly occur. When they become entrapped in the lungs, they can cause asthmatic responses.
When mold allergy symptoms occur, several treatments are available. Among them are non-prescription decongestants and antihistamines. Many of these medications cause drowsiness, and must be used cautiously. However, non-drowsy alternatives are available as well. In severe cases, physicians sometimes prescribe nasal sprays which contain corticosteroids.
Those who are sensitive to the fungus can take precautions to minimize contact. Among them are wearing dust masks when gardening or cutting grass. Lowering indoor humidity levels can also reduce its presence. Ideally, humidity should be kept to 35 percent. Also effective are central air conditioning systems which contain HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters. The units need to be cleaned regularly. Dehumidifiers are also effective at reducing fungal growth.
Additionally, lowering levels of moisture in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements is beneficial. Bathrooms must be free of carpeting, as well as have exhaust fans, and open windows, when possible. Carpeting traps moisture and nurtures fungal growth, and must be avoided in moist rooms. All plumbing leaks should be repaired immediately. Also, sinks and tubs should be scoured regularly. Colonies of fungus thrive in soap scum, as well as other films which tend to coat bathroom fixtures.
In basements, raise the heat levels to help reduce the humidity. In closets, use light-bulbs or small heaters to reduce the moisture levels. Refrigerator door gaskets and drip pans should be cleaned regularly. In addition, old newspapers, bedding, clothes, books, and magazines should be discarded.
Those who suffer from mold allergy symptoms can take precautions. In addition to reducing contact with fungal colonies, there are several prescription and non-prescription medications which can provide relief.
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