ALLERGIC REACTIONS TO: MOULDS
Moulds are the invisible enemy of the allergy world. They are tiny plant organisms belonging to the fungus family that can usually only be seen with a microscope. Allergy to moulds often goes undiagnosed. Understanding what they are, and where they are found, can help you to understand and control often unexplained reactions.
Allergic reactions to moulds are caused by inhaling the minute spores that moulds release to reproduce. These are produced year-round by perennial moulds or only at certain seasons by other moulds. Inhaling spores can cause immediate reactions in the nasal passages and airways – sneezing, sinusitis, rhinitis, wheezing, constricted breathing. The perennial moulds can be the cause of year-round problems – continual mucus production, sinus headaches, rhinitis, itchy eyes, a dry persistent cough, a prolonged head cold that will not clear, glue ear or blockages of the inner ear – which may aggravate from time to time, as their concentrations increase.
Moulds can also cause delayed reactions and a wider range of symptoms beyond the nasal and breathing symptoms described above. Mould allergy has been associated with skin reactions, digestive complaints, nausea, fluid retention, arthritis and muscle pain. In addition, people with mould allergy often report that their reactions are linked to mood swings and mental symptoms such as depression, lassitude, lethargy, irritability and excitability.
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