Is it Seasonal Allergies or Could it be Mold?
While most of us welcome the spring bloom of flowers and trees, some people instinctively reach for the tissues to manage their runny nose and watery eyes. It means that allergy season is in full bloom, too. Before you blame pollen and dander for triggering that sneeze reflex, it could be the presence of mold in your home or business. The experts at St. John Environmental Consulting want to shed some light on this, especially because allergies are quite common around the St. Louis region!
Let’s start with understanding seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. These allergies typically kick into high gear during spring and fall seasons here in Midwest. The Allergy and Asthma Foundation lists the most common pollen allergies as 17 types of tree pollen, 34 varieties of weed pollen, and 6 grass pollens that bring on the sneeze. An individual could be allergic to one or several types of pollen. A quick test at your allergist’s office can determine the culprit.
The symptoms of seasonal allergies include:
Fortunately, most seasonal allergy sufferers experience mild and infrequent symptoms. For others, symptoms from seasonal allergies are long lasting and can significantly impact daily life, making outdoor activities a challenge and disrupting sleep patterns.
Mold allergies are relatively uncommon and often overlooked.
While there are over 100,000 species of mold, only a select few provoke allergic reactions. Notable allergenic molds include alternaria, aspergillus, cladosporium, and penicillium. Mold spores are minuscule and lightweight and drift through the air like pollen. Due to their tiny size, these spores can be easily inhaled, potentially triggering allergic responses. This poses a particular concern for individuals with asthma.
Unlike seasonal allergies, mold allergies may manifest with symptoms that resemble a chronic cold, such as:
One telltale sign that your allergy is mold and not seasonal is that your symptoms persist or even worsen indoors, particularly in areas prone to moisture such as basements. Here are three factors to consider when looking to decide if your symptoms are seasonal or mold related.
01
What is the season when your symptoms begin?
Seasonal allergies tend to flare up predictably during specific times of the year, whereas mold allergies can persist year-round.
02
Where do your symptoms occur?
If your symptoms worsen or persist indoors, mold allergy may be the culprit. Conversely, if symptoms primarily occur outdoors, seasonal allergies are more likely to blame.
03
What are the potential triggers to your symptoms?
Pay attention to potential triggers. Do your symptoms worsen after spending time outdoors or in specific indoor environments? Identifying triggers can help pinpoint the source of your allergies.
Whether you are battling seasonal or mold allergies, understanding the root cause of your symptoms is the first step toward effective management. By adopting proactive measures to minimize allergen exposure and seeking appropriate treatment, you can reclaim control over your health and enjoy the changing seasons with greater comfort and ease.
