Spring and summer showers bring more than May flowers, they also bring the perfect warm, wet, humid conditions that allow mold spores to thrive. Many North Texans have experience with this, as their mold allergy symptoms like coughs, itchy throats and runny noses make the presence of these spores known. For those looking for understanding, diagnosis and long-term relief, check out the best treatment options available for managing this common environmental allergy.
Top Treatment Options for Mold Allergy Management
As you may know, dealing with allergies is not a condition that’s usually cured outright. While there are some people who overcome (or even outgrow) various allergies, these conditions are usually managed through avoidance when possible, in conjunction with multiple treatment methods.
If your reaction to mold is relatively minor and not a big inconvenience, over-the-counter medications like antihistamines may be potent enough to curb your symptoms and bring relief. However, a full battery of allergy testing may identify additional allergens and open up more treatment options for you.
If you have a moderate to severe allergic reaction, you’ll want to pursue more powerful environmental mold allergy treatment from a board-certified allergist. This is especially the case for patients who have co-occurring conditions like asthma. While an inhaler can provide some relief for breathing conditions by reducing inflammation and relaxing your airways, it is not your only option.
One of the best treatments for mold allergies is immunotherapy, also simply known as “allergy shots.” This gradual exposure process yields the best results among allergy sufferers, bringing long-lasting relief to many people. While this treatment is something only an allergist can provide, there are personal steps you can take too. The use of allergy drops (sublingual immunotherapy) is also a mold allergy treatment option.
Managing Mold Allergies at Home
In addition to receiving personalized allergy treatments at your doctor’s office or clinic, there are ways you can combat mold inside your home and back yard, as spores occur inside and outside. Here are some tips on allergy management.
- Use a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels in your home low. Too much internal humidity can cause mold to form, especially in moist places like bathrooms and basements.
- Regularly change or sanitize sponges and towels in the kitchen and bathroom.
- Watch out for food in your refrigerator, as sometimes leftovers turn into a science project—it happens to everyone. Writing dates on items can help, as well as doing weekly fridge cleanouts.
- Watch for leaks, and if any are detected, bring in a specialist to check for mold. Black mold is especially dangerous to everyone and calls for special remediation processes.
- Outdoors, make sure to pick up leaf piles or old wood, watch for puddling, and stir compost to keep mold from building up and causing trouble for you and your family.
It may seem simple, but keeping the areas prone to dampness clean and as dry as possible can make a big difference to your health. Ask your allergist for more tips based on your family’s specific needs.
Make Your Appointment With a Board-Certified Allergist Today
Whether your family is looking for relief from mold, seasonal or food allergies, Dr. Mireku of TexasAllergyMD is ready with innovative, personalized allergy treatments to get relief in McKinney/Prosper or Southlake. Call (469) 375-1525 or request an appointment.
