Hives due to Mold Allergy

Mold is a fungus which can be found indoors and outdoors. Mold works to breakdown dead materials and returns nutrients to the environment. Mold grows and spreads by releasing tiny lightweight spores that travel through the air. Inhaling this material could lead to allergy in some people. Mold generally tends to grow in moist and dark places such as dump yards, basements, pile of rotten leaves etc. Mold even grows on food, like the downy green spots that one can see on breads.

Most of us are exposed to mold everyday and have no ill effects. But some people react badly to mold and fungus causing different kinds of allergic reactions.

Some of the symptoms of mold allergy include:

• Wheezing
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Itchy eyes
• Rash or Hives

Hives is a type of rash that causes redness and itchiness on the skin surface. Hives can occur in people who are allergic to mold or fungus. When mold and mildew circulates in the air, it allows for direct skin contact when the spores land down. This can cause skin irritation that may last until an individual is no longer in contact with the irritant. If the person is exposed to the irritant, in this case mold, he or she may develop ongoing hives, skin rashes, swelling, redness, dry skin and eczema that is unpleasant and uncomfortable. If such skin conditions persist it could lead to bacterial and viral infections.

Prevention from mold allergy hives

• A person who is allergic to mold should try to have limited contact with mold and mildew, this can help alleviate symptoms of mold allergy and hives caused due to mold allergy.
• It is better to detect molds within your home or building and try to eradicate through regular maintenance, cleaning and repair. This can help prevent spores development in your home and thus preventing in mold allergy hives.
• It is also advised to use dehumidifiers and air purifiers within your home. It will help improve the air quality which is essential for optimum health.
• Also stay away from food sources that could contain mold. Some of the common food sources of mold are:
• Cheese
• Mushrooms
• Vinegar and foods containing vinegar, such as salad dressing, catsup, and pickles
• Sour cream, sour milk, and buttermilk
• Meat or fish more than 24 hours old
• Breads and other food made with yeast
• Sauerkraut
• Pickled and smoked meats and fish
• Dried fruits such as dates, prunes, figs, and raisins
• Soy sauce
• Hot dogs, sausages
• Canned juices
• If you experience symptoms of mold allergy then visit your immunologist so that they can treat your hives caused due to mold allergy. Generally they would prescribe antihistamines, inhalers, nebulizer treatments, fungal removal and anti-fungal medications.