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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffMold allergy causes the same signs and symptoms that occur in other types of upper respiratory allergies. Mold allergy symptoms can include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Cough and postnasal drip
- Itchy eyes, nose and throat
- Watery eyes
Mold allergy symptoms vary from person to person, and range from mild to severe. You may have year-round symptoms or symptoms that flare up only during certain times of the year. You may notice symptoms when the weather is damp, or you're in indoor or outdoor spaces that have high concentrations of mold.
If you have a mold allergy and asthma, your asthma symptoms may be triggered by exposure to mold spores. In some people, exposure to certain molds can cause a severe asthma attack. Signs and symptoms of asthma include:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
When to see a doctor
If you have a stuffy nose, sneezing, watery eyes or other bothersome symptoms that don't seem to go away, see your doctor.
- Storey E, et al. Guidance for clinicians on the recognition and management of health effects related to mold exposure and moisture indoors. The Center for Indoor Environments and Health. http://oehc.uchc.edu/images/PDFs/MOLD%20GUIDE.pdf. Accessed June 8, 2010.
- Mold allergy. Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=8&sub=15&cont=58. Accessed June 7, 2010.
- Basic facts: Molds in the environment. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm. Accessed June 7, 2010.
- A brief guide to mold, moisture and your home. Environmental Protection Agency. http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldguide.html. Accessed June 7, 2010.
- Atopic and allergic disorders. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/print/sec13/ch165/ch165c.html. Accessed June 9, 2010.
- Weber RW. Allergic Rhinitis. Primary Care Clinics in Office Practice. 2008;35:1.
- Tips to remember: Allergy and asthma medications. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. http://www.aaaai.org/patients/publicedmat/tips/asthmaallergymedications.stm. Accessed June 9, 2010.
- Seltzer JM, et al. Health effects of mold in children. Pediatric Clinics of North America. 2007;54:309.
- Saline sinus rinse recipe. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. http://www.aaaai.org/patients/publicedmat/sinusitis/rinse_recipe.pdf. Accessed June 9, 2010.
- Li JT (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 21, 2010.
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