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Apr

15

Mold Allergy

Filed Under Mold Allergy | 2 Comments

Do You Have A Mold Allergy ?

strawberryMold is a fungi whose tiny spores are spread through the wind or indoor air and can cause a mold allergy. The problem with mold is that it is very tough to get rid of. Mold can even survive freezing temperatures, as it lies dormant waiting for warmer spring temperatures so it can thrive on all the dead vegetation from a long winter. Mold allergy symptoms can occur at anytime of the year, because mold thrives indoors at room temperature.

Symptoms of a Mold Allergy

Symptoms of a mold allergy can include some of the following symptoms.

  • Wheezing or coughing
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Red itchy eyes
  • Watery eyes
  • Skin rashes
  • Sinusitis

Steps to Reduce or Stop a Mold Allergy

Certain people have a genetic disposition to mold allergies or have weakened immune systems and need to avoid mold as much as possible.

The best thing to do with a mold allergy is to first find the cause and than deal with the mold. Generally indoor mold is caused by a moisture problem of some sort. The bathroom and basement are prime areas that mold might originate.

Mold Checklist

  • Eliminate any plumbing problems like leaky pipes in the basement, use a dehumidifier if required.
  • A air purifier with a HEPA filter or a air conditioner with a HEPA attachment can help
  • Install a fan in the bathroom or open windows after showering. Make sure to dry any damp spots.
  • Do not use carpet in bathrooms.
  • House hold plants can cause a mold allergy, be careful not to over water them. Do not plant them in wicker, straw or other natural planters as these are more susceptible to water damage.
  • Keep house plants trimmed, and remove dead leaves because mold loves to grow on dead plants.
  • Make sure furnace and air conditioners are well maintained and filters changed regularly.
  • If your working outside doing yard work or in other areas that have high levels of mold consider wearing a dusk mask.
  • Clean surfaces that are often wet in the basement or bathroom with a bleach solutions regularly.
  • Expose possible mold areas to sunlight if possible.
  • Do not keep garbage indoors

Types of Mold That Can Cause a Mold Allergy

  • Alternaria
  • Cladosporium
  • Aspergillus
  • Penicillium
  • Helminthosporium

What is a good natural cleaner to use on mold? Vinegar

There is a lot of controversy over toxic mold lately, the best information on toxic mold can be found at the CDC Website