Wheezing? Panic attacks? You might be allergic to mould

The ‘dream home’ for mould has damp and poor ventilation. Moulds reproduce in environments like this by releasing tiny spores into the air, ready for humans to ingest or inhale. Physical disturbance to this environment will help disperse the spores even more.

Other examples of situations that can trigger the release of mould spores are the following:

• When moist conditions warm up suddenly
• When central heating is turned on in a damp house
• When wet clothes are hung near a radiator

Moulds don’t just grow indoors – you can find them out and about too. They proliferate in the late summer and early autumn due to the fallen leaves on the ground and decaying vegetation.

With over 100,000 species of mould, the majority of which produce allergens, it’s worth being aware of the symptoms of mould allergy in case it affects you. It’s more common than you may think!

Symptoms

There are many possible symptoms of mould allergy, but the following are the most common:

• Allergic rhinitis (runny nose)
• Sneezing
• Itchy eyes or nose
• Weakness and fatigue
• Wheezing or breathing difficulties
• Headaches
• Panic attacks
• Irritability
• Depression

If you have been diagnosed with mould allergy, try these tips:

• Tackle damp areas straight away and remove moisture in places at high risk of attracting mould. Address any leaks in walls, roofing or piping at home.
• Avoid cleaning damp basements and cellars yourself. If you have to, wear a mask.
• Don’t scrub or use harsh chemicals to clean the mould- it will further release the mould spores into the air for you to breathe in.
• Always make sure there is adequate ventilation and air circulation.
• Musty or damp furniture and carpets may be harbouring moulds, so it may help to replace or remove these.

Once the environmental factors have been addressed, there are a few products that can help relieve your symptoms. The most crucial is a dehumidifier. Even if your room doesn’t seem damp, the machines remove a great deal of water from the air, quickly helping to remove dampness. Air sterilisers will also help to deal with airborne mould spores (we particularly recommend the Airfree for this specific purpose, as it reduces mould growth by up to 99%).

Allergy sprays will help remove moulds in air, carpets and furnishings, whilst being safe for those with allergies. For more information on how to use these, look at this page.

Talk to us

If you have mould allergy, please give us a call and our friendly and knowledgeable team will be happy to advise on the most effective products to help relieve your symptoms. You can email us at [email protected] or call us during office hours on 0845 450 5950.

Disclaimer – Information included in this website is intended for information purposes only and is not to be used as a substitute for consultation with a medical practitioner.