Mold is a fungus that can be found almost anywhere, both indoors and outside. There are many different types of mold. Only a few cause an allergic reaction.
Mold seeds (or spores) get into the air and are then breathed in. For children at risk, this can cause allergy-like symptoms or trigger breathing problems like asthma.
Mold lives in damp, dark and warm places. Mold can grow on anything from old books to dead leaves or straw. Outdoor mold thrives best in the fall and spring because of warm temperatures and lots of moisture. It can grow indoors year round in places that stay moist or wet (Picture 1).
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms of a mold allergy vary from person to person but may include:
- Itchy nose, frequent sneezing, stuffy nose (congestion)
- Watery, itchy eyes
- Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
Treatment and Prevention
Your child's doctor may suggest an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine to help improve symptoms. Or, the doctor may prescribe medicine. Always read the label to know the right dose for your child.
The best way to prevent an allergic reaction is to keep your child away from mold. Below is a list of places to avoid and tips on what you can do to reduce mold from growing in or near your home:
Inside the House
- Keep the air dry and improve ventilation (airflow).
- Set humidity control to 50 percent or lower (Picture 2). Check the filters on humidifiers and air conditioners two times a year.
- Keep doors open between rooms to increase airflow.
- Do NOT use a vaporizer or humidifier.
- Avoid attics, closets and dusty areas.
- Get rid of clutter and piles.
- Throw away old newspapers, magazines, and books.
- Help make the basem*nt dry.
- Use a portable dehumidifier. Empty it daily or connect it to a continuous drain.
- Bathrooms
- Use an exhaust fan or keep a window or door open when showering.
- Clean shower curtains, tubs, and tiles with products that kill mildew.
- Remove carpeting that can get wet.
- Check under sinks and behind toilets for leaks and fix them.
- Kitchen
- Clean refrigerator drip trays and door gaskets.
- Avoid using sponges, or clean or replace them often.
- Laundry room
- Do not leave damp laundry in piles.
- Leave the washer door open after using.
- Clean the gasket in the door of front loading washers.
- Family room
- Use an artificial Christmas tree if possible.
Outside
- Garage
- Do not sweep the cement floor when your child is around. One-third of cement dust is mold.
- Leaves and grass
- Clean up areas of the yard where leaves, cut grass and weeds could collect and rot.
- Avoid raking, burning or jumping in dry leaves.
- Roof and gutters
- Inspect and repair roof and gutters for leaks.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear and flowing away from the house.
Farming Areas
- Keep out of barns and silos.
- Stay away from hay, straw, and peat moss.
- Avoid combining and shoveling grains.
When to Call the Doctor
Call the doctor if:
- Symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, even when your child is taking medicine regularly.
- Your child has a fever.
- Your child has trouble breathing
HH-I-5, 4/02, Revised 10/18 | Copyright 1976, Nationwide Children’s Hospital
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Now, let's delve into the key concepts presented in the provided article on "Allergy to Mold":
Mold Overview:
Mold is a ubiquitous fungus found in various environments, both indoors and outdoors. The article emphasizes that mold exists in numerous types, but only a select few trigger allergic reactions. The mold spreads through airborne spores, which, when inhaled, can lead to allergy-like symptoms, especially in children, and may exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma.
Mold Habitats:
Mold thrives in damp, dark, and warm environments. It can grow on a variety of surfaces, including old books, dead leaves, or straw. Outdoor mold flourishes in the fall and spring due to optimal temperatures and moisture. Indoors, mold can persist year-round in moist or wet areas.
Signs and Symptoms:
The symptoms of a mold allergy vary but commonly include itchy nose, frequent sneezing, watery and itchy eyes, congestion, coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
Treatment and Prevention:
The article outlines various treatment options, including over-the-counter (OTC) medicines or prescriptions suggested by a doctor. To prevent allergic reactions, particularly in children, the focus is on avoiding mold exposure. Tips for preventing mold growth inside the house include maintaining dry air, improving ventilation, controlling humidity below 50%, and regular maintenance of humidifiers and air conditioners.
Specific Indoor Recommendations:
- Bathrooms: Using exhaust fans, keeping windows or doors open during showers, and cleaning surfaces with mold-killing products.
- Kitchen: Regularly cleaning refrigerator drip trays and door gaskets and avoiding the use of sponges.
- Laundry Room: Ensuring damp laundry is not left in piles and keeping washers and their components clean.
- Family Room: Opting for artificial Christmas trees to mitigate mold exposure.
Outdoor Recommendations:
- Garage: Caution against sweeping cement floors due to mold in cement dust.
- Leaves and Grass: Cleaning up areas where leaves, cut grass, and weeds can accumulate and rot.
- Roof and Gutters: Regular inspection and repair to prevent leaks and ensure proper water drainage away from the house.
- Farming Areas: Avoiding barns, silos, and exposure to hay, straw, and peat moss.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
The article provides clear indicators of when to consult a doctor, such as persistent or worsening symptoms, the presence of a fever, or difficulty breathing in children.
In conclusion, understanding the nature of mold allergies and implementing practical strategies for prevention is crucial for managing allergic reactions effectively. The provided article serves as a valuable resource for parents and caregivers seeking information on mold allergies and ways to safeguard their children's respiratory health.
