Mold

Mold thrives in humid places and may present itself in one or many humid areas throughout an individual’s home or workplace. Mold can grow on any moist surface just about anywhere and its fungal presence is unmistakable: black spots growing in a damp or humid space and reproduce through spores carried through the air. As the spores replicate, they are released into the air and can cause minimal to severe health effects on the inhabitants of the mold-infested space. The airborne spores may get into a person’s nose and lungs, directly affecting their respiratory function. 

Testing

• Skin Prick Test: During this quick, easy, and virtually pain free test one of our allergy specialist doctors marks your arm in pen with an assortment of numbers that correspond to the 15 most common mold allergens in the area. A diluted drop of each mold allergen is carefully placed next to its assigned number and a lancet is used to painlessly place the allergen just under the top layer of the patient’s skin. After 10-15 minutes, the skin is evaluated by one of our top rated allergy specialist doctors for any inflammation or itchiness (which indicates the patient may be allergic to the sampled allergen), the affected areas are measured, and anti-itch cream is applied to the tested skin. 
• Specific IgE (immunoglobulin-E) Blood Test: This method involves the extraction of a small amount of blood from a patient that may suffer from a mold allergy. The blood sample is sent to a lab to identify and measure the level of IgE antibodies the patient has to 15 of the most common mold allergens in the area. 

Treatment

• Nasal Corticosteroids: Your top rated allergy specialist doctor may recommend over-the-counter nasal corticosteroids or prescribe you a specific kind, depending on the severity of symptoms. It is an anti-inflammatory that provides immediate relief from nasal congestion and other nasal symptoms associated with mold allergies.  
• Oral Decongestants: This medication comes in the form of a tablet and is widely available over the counter, though your immunologist may prescribe you stronger oral decongestants if necessary. Oral decongestants provide instant relief for blocked or runny noses and general sinus congestion associated with a mold allergy. This treatment provides temporary, immediate relief upon exposure to a mold allergen. 
• Antihistamines: This treatment method consists of over-the-counter or prescription medications (taken orally). Your top of the line board certified immunologist may recommend over-the-counter antihistamines as a first step to treating your condition or may prescribe you stronger antihistamines depending on the severity of your mold allergy. Antihistamines block a chemical created in the body called histamine (which causes allergy-associated symptoms). This medication reduces symptoms associated with mold allergies and provides instant and long-lasting relief (up to 24 hours depending on the brand). 
• Immunotherapy: This innovative treatment may be employed to treat mold allergies. There are two main methods that your board certified allergy specialist doctor may employ: oral ingestion via tablets or sublingual drops (placed under the tongue to dissolve). Immunotherapy aims to desensitize the immune system’s negative response to a particular allergen through gradual exposure of a period of time. Each method requires a different schedule for gradual exposure. 
• Montelukast: Also commonly known by its brand name, Singulair®, this prescription oral medication is an anti-inflammatory that helps reduce respiratory symptoms associated with a mold allergy. 

The sooner you schedule an appointment, the sooner you can experience relief!

Allergy & Asthma Center of Long Island
9 Center Drive, Roslyn, NY 11576
(516) 699-7790