If you’re one of the 20% of people who experience seasonal allergies (AKA hay fever), you’re no stranger to the itchy, watery eyes, congestion, runny nose and scratchy throat that occur in the spring and summer. But it’s possible your symptoms aren’t actually due to pollen, but instead mold. Mold allergies cause very similar symptoms to hay fever, but they tend to attack at different times. It’s important to uncover the source of your symptoms in order to seek treatment.
Timing Can Be a Factor
Seasonal allergies are caused by pollen and tend to start around late-February and last until the end of summer. Even allergies to ragweed should resolve by fall, around mid-October. If your allergy symptoms occur year-round or after pollen season is over, you may instead be having a reaction to mold.
Even if your symptoms occur during the spring and summer, pay attention to when they’re worst. If you experience symptoms after hanging out outside or when your windows are open, they’re probably due to pollen. If you experience problems when spending time indoors — especially in the bathroom, kitchen, laundry room or basement — they’re probably due to mold.
The only way to find out for sure is to visit an allergist, who can confirm the source of your symptoms.
Preventing Mold Allergies
If you’re diagnosed with a mold allergy, it’s important to take care of your home to prevent mold from growing and causing symptoms, which can worsen over time and even trigger asthma attacks.
To Prevent Bathroom Mold:
- Use and exhaust fan or open the window when you shower or bathe
- Do not let bathroom rugs remain wet — hang them up or put them in the dryer after standing on them to dry off
- Clean sinks and tubs monthly, as fungi thrive on soap and other films that coat tiles
- Repair leaks promptly
To Prevent Kitchen Mold:
- Clean garbage cans regularly
- Remove leftovers from the fridge and wipe it down weekly
- Use an exhaust fan or open windows when cooking or washing dishes
- Repair leaks promptly
For more information or to schedule an appointment with an allergist, call ENT of Athens today.