Understanding MOLD ALLERGY
What are Molds, and What Causes Mold Growth?
Molds are microscopic fungi and are made up of clusters of filaments that live on plant or animal matter. Molds spread on this organic matter and decompose it for nourishment. With a vast number of varieties, molds are among the most widespread living organisms. Unlike pollens, molds do not have a strictly limited season. Mold growth is encouraged by warmth and high humidity, and humid seasons of the year are more problematic for allergy sufferers with mold allergies. Reductions in humidity, increasing ventilation and using mildewcide are important steps for treating mold year-round.
Allergy Alert! Your Improving Life Indoors Allergy Education
Mold Spores: Under the Microscope
Many molds reproduce by releasing mold spores into the air, which then settle on organic matter and grow into new mold clusters. These airborne mold spores are far more numerous than pollen grains and, when inhaled, can produce allergic symptoms.
Mold Allergens: Where Are You at Risk if You Are a Mold Allergy Sufferer?
Molds are found both outside and inside the home. Molds can be found outside in fallen leaves, rotten vegetation, poor drainage areas and other shady, damp places. Mold spores can spread through the air and can enter the home. Other molds are produced in the home, especially in areas that are poorly ventilated or have water pools, as well as in warm, dark and humid areas such as showers or basements. Moisture and warmth can accelerate the growth of dormant mildew spores on most surfaces.
What Allergen Avoidance Steps are Important for Mold Allergies?
Mold issues around the home have become increasingly problematic, and it is important to address and prevent mold growth as early as possible. Pruning and cutting back vegetation that creates shady, damp areas near the home, addressing drainage issues, cleaning and ventilating potential trouble spots and avoiding high exposure areas indoors and out will all help to keep mold allergies to a minimum.
Allergen Avoidance Action Steps: Decreasing Mold Growth and Mold Prevention
- Keep humidity below 50% by using air conditioning and a dehumidifier.
- Dust mites and mold thrive at high humidity. If possible, keep humidity at 35-40%, and no higher than 50%. Run air conditioners and a dehumidifier, if necessary. Monitor levels with a gauge.
- Increase ventilation in damp areas that encourage mold growth.
- Use exhaust fans or open windows during dry months to air out damp areas.
- When mold is identified, use a mildewcide or bleach to kill growth and inhibit the re-growth of mold and mildew.
- Wash bathroom areas, walls and ceiling, kitchen and basement with mold-killing and mold-preventing solutions.
- Remove or avoid using carpets in the bathroom and basement.
- Do not carpet bathrooms or basement concrete floors. Allergic individuals should never have their bedroom on the basement level.
- Avoid over-humidification in the winter to prevent damp areas that can harbor mold and mildew.
- When using a humidifier, monitor with a gauge to keep to appropriate levels.
- Dry washed clothing immediately and vent the clothes dryer outdoors.
- Use air filters to trap airborne particles in the vent system.
- Use central furnace air filters to trap airborne particles such as dust, pollens and mold spores that are flowing through the ducts. HEPA air cleaners can also be used to trap airborne particles.
- Use a face mask when working in damp, musty areas indoors or when outdoors.
- Correct drainage issues that can cause seepage into the home or water pooling and lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
- Summer cottages, some hotel rooms, greenhouses and other areas are sources of increased mildew and mold exposure. Car air conditioners may harbor mold.