Allergic to mold?

Mold as strong an allergen as pollen

By: Sponsored article by BlueRidge Health Care | Morganton News Herald
Published: March 31, 2010

Burke and surrounding counties are experiencing more than the usual amount of mold related allergy problems due to the extreme wet conditions this year.
"Mold spores thrive year round and can survive at subfreezing temperatures," said Elzie F. Hart, MD, an ear, nose and throat specialist, at Blue Ridge ENT, Allergy and Facial Plastic Surgery, located at 352B East Parker Road. "They are found wherever there is moisture, oxygen and high humidity."
Mold is found on logs, fallen leaves, compost piles, grasses and weeds, especially in shady areas. Some forms of mold attach themselves to grains such as wheat, corn, oats and barley. The "hot spots" for mold growth occur in damp basements, building and closets, bathrooms, refrigerator drip trays, houseplants, air conditioners, humidifiers, garbage cans, lockers, books, upholstered furniture, carpet.
"Mold related disorders vary dramatically and can be aggravated by eating certain foods," Dr. Hart said.
Over the course of a damp fall and winter, many people may have experienced an increase in mold sensitivity.
"Molds are right up there with pollens as important allergens," Dr. Hart said. "The airborne spores, when inhaled, can produce allergic symptoms."
Molds are microscopic fungi, which unlike plants are not able to produce their own food from sunlight and air. They live on plant or animal matter that they decompose for their nourishment. Common bread mold is a well-known example.
Molds flourish in damp areas increasing greatly during rainy, humid weather. Molds are greatest in the low-lying sub tropical areas of the United States. In fact, all areas east of the Mississippi River are subject to long periods of high humidity and hence to molds. Mold spores are extremely light and are carried on the higher currents during the warmth of the day.
"With the setting of the sun and cooler evening temperatures mold spores drop down toward the ground and can more easily be inhaled," Dr. Hart said. "If your symptoms peak with sunset you may be mold sensitive."
Mold sensitive people may experience nasal congestion, itchy and runny nose, sneezing, coughing, various ear problems, ear infections (especially in children), dry tickling throat and clearing of the throat as well as blurred vision, pain, watery and itchy eyes, swollen and red eyes. Others may experience shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in chest, headaches, and fatigue.
If you feel you have mold sensitivities, Dr. Hart advises to avoid exposure to areas of high mold growth such as basements, compost piles, fallen leaves, barns and wooded areas.
In addition, he suggested the following:
• Keep the humidity in your home at 35 percent by using air conditioners and dehumidifiers in the summer and preventing over humidification in the winter. Very tightly insulated houses prevent the escape of moisture and thus encourage mold growth.
• Use exhaust fans in the bathroom and above the stove.
• A mildew remover helps to prevent the spread of molds.
• Keep household plants to a minimum and out of the bedroom.
• Avoid greenhouses, antique shops, saunas, sleeping bags, summer cottages and hotel rooms, which are additional sources of increased mold exposure.
If you think you have a mold allergy or sensitivity, Dr. Hart or his partner, Brian Downs, MD, is available for allergy consultation and treatment. Blue Ridge ENT, Allergy and Facial Plastic Surgery is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please call 580-6410.

Allergic to mold?

Mold as strong an allergen as pollen

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