Allergy to mold: Symptoms, risk factors, treatment

Molds grow in damp, old and poorly ventilated rooms, in damp cellars, in bathrooms, on wet and cold exterior walls, under wallpaper, on walls behind cabinets, behind framed frames, under carpet, in humidifiers . They can also multiply on the surface of some food, fruit, vegetables, bread or cheese. In fact, enzymes from mold are often used in the food processing industry. Mold spores can act, both as internal and external allergens, in which they can trigger an allergic symptomatology with a seasonal profile similar to that triggered by pollen, Spores of outdoor molds are carried by air over long distances, often traveling alongside pollen grains. They are found in areas with lawns, meadows, under the fallen leaves of the trees, under the cereal leftovers left in the fields and where natural fertilizers are used to fertilize crops. There are hundreds of mold species known, but those that are involved in triggering allergic reactions are: Aspergillus, Alternaria, Penicillium and Cladosporium, Symptoms of mold allergy Symptoms of mold spores can trigger a multitude of symptoms: sneezing, nose itching, aqueous nasal secretions, blockage of the nose with breathing difficulties, decreased smell and migraines; .

Suspicion of a mold allergy is based on faithful reproduction of symptomatology around some mold sources or in a particular season of the year, Risk Factors A number of factors can make you more likely to develop a mold allergy or aggravate the symptoms of a pre-existing allergy. First of all, it is worth mentioning the family history of allergies, the genetic factors weighing a lot in the occurrence of an atopic disease. Also, exposure to agriculture, milk processing, wood exploitation, refurbishment of furniture or old art objects, greenhouse work, construction, wine making, bakery industry, etc. . If you live in a house with high humidity, this can cause an allergic sensitization to indoor molds.

If the indoor humidity is greater than 50%, you may have an increased exposure to mold even in your home. If you work or live in a building that has been exposed to excessive moisture, the risk is very high. Examples include massive infiltrations of water during heavy rain or flood damage. Excessive humidity will allow mold to flourish. Also, if you have a poorly ventilated house, do not forget to check the sealing gaskets from the windows that can get moisture inside, creating ideal conditions for mold growth.

Also, periodically change filters from ventilation systems. Ever-wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens or basements are vulnerable and must be carefully checked. How to diagnose Most allergic skin reactions involve symptoms of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, but not serious. However, there are also severe allergic conditions caused by mold. These include: allergic asthma, allergic fungal sinusitis, bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, complicating pre-existing allergic asthma or fibrotic fibrosis, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

These may be specific to an allergenic extract, but much more valuable information is provided by the specific IgE dosage relative to the molecular components of mold, which sang a lot in the most accurate diagnosis of serious allergic conditions, but also in the correct choice of treatments . Moreover, in severe conditions such as bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, other types of antibodies released during complex immunological response. Other investigations, such as respiratory functional samples, nasal fibroscopic examinations, or radiological examinations, from the usual ones, such as pulmonary X-ray, to performing, CT or MRI, are also required, Once the diagnosis is confirmed, both measures to prevent contact with allergens and symptomatic treatment are recommended and, when possible, specific allergen desensitization. How to prevent Prevention measures require the maintenance of moisture-free environment with the help of dehumidifiers, the keeping of dry rooms ensuring good air humidity, good ventilation and adequate heating. Try to remove sources of mold, clean the walls inside and outside the dwellings, windows.

What's more, removing the possible roof infiltration. Also, air conditioning systems should be traced as a potential source of allergens both inside buildings and cars, by periodically cleaning them and using special filters. Avoid exposure to cellars, basements, covered swimming pools. Avoid contact with non-specific irritants, such as cigarette smoke, fog and pollutants, as well as eating molded foods such as crumbs or dried crumbs. There will be the possibility of cross-mold reactions between mold and food such as spinach or mushrooms.

When discussing allergic asthma or bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, as the severity of allergic symptoms can be elevated, complex treatment regimens. These include bronchodilators, but also anti-inflammatory, either inhaled or for general administration, such as cortisone preparations, In general, it is good to follow the action plan for this type of allergic respiratory disorder, first of all not to lead to severe, life-threatening exacerbations. The only treatment that addresses directly the cause of allergies is specific allergen immunotherapy or desensitization treatment. Gradually, the symptoms begin to disappear. Such treatment lasts for at least three years and is begun even at younger ages of 4-5 years.

Unfortunately, allergenic extracts in the case of mold are very difficult to standardize, with few variants for vaccination, .