How to know if it’s a mould allergy – and how to fight it

31st May 2023

How to know if it’s a mould allergy – and how to fight it

Our home is our castle. It’s a sanctuary; somewhere we know we can retreat to at the end of the day and relax. And many of us will be proud of the homes we’ve created. Sure, they might not be as clean as others, or as organised, but it’s ours. So when something upsets that balance, it can feel like an attack. And one attack we all hate to see is mould.

Mould isn’t nice at the best of times, but in some people, it can be that much worse. There are those who have an allergy to mould, making it all the more pressing to get out of your house. If only it wasn’t so stubborn. But what are the ins and outs of a mould allergy? And how can you deal with it? Let’s take a look…

What is mould?

This seems rather obvious, but let’s start with what mould actually is. At least how it affects all of us – not just people with a mould allergy. Mould thrives on moisture. It’s why you’re most likely to see it in your home in your bathroom or kitchen. You may also find it outside, especially on plant of animal matter, which it decomposes.

Now there is some confusion about how mould and damp environments affect all of us. Dampness has been linked to long-term health issues, particularly respiratory (i.e. breathing) problems. This is sometimes attributed to mould, but the link is uncertain as it’s hard to monitor exactly how much mould someone is exposed to. But since they usually go hand in hand, it’s fair to be wary of both.

Again, this can affect anyone. Especially if it’s the infamous “black mould”, which has been the bane of many homeowners’ lives. But for those who do have an allergy, it adds that extra layer of concern.

Symptoms of a mould allergy

The cause of the allergic reaction is the mould’s spores. Similar to dust or pollen, these airborne particles get into our respiratory systems, causing issues for those with allergies. As such, some of the symptoms will be similar to dust and pollen allergies. This includes:

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Scratchy throat
• Runny or stuffy nose

Symptoms experienced will vary from person to person. Mould may also exacerbate people’s asthma if they have the condition. There is no set time of year this might happen, so mould allergies can be triggered at any time. Though it may be more frequent in spring or autumn when the weather is wetter.

Avoiding your mould allergy

The simplest way to avoid a mould allergy attack is to keep its presence at a minimum. This is something you can only really control in your own home. So keep it well ventilated by opening windows frequently when it’s dry and using extractor fans in the bathroom and kitchen. If you don’t have those, look into buying a dehumidifier to extract the moisture from the air.

You’ll also want to get good at cleaning, making sure to frequently tackle your bathroom and kitchen. Invest in a good anti-mould spray and try to get in the habit of using it after every shower or bath. To prevent moisture build-up in other rooms, pay attention to the humidity and avoid drying clothes indoors if you can. If you can’t, follow some of our other tips above.

Other than that, when you’re outdoors, stick to more urban areas. Walks through fields and forests might be a bad idea as that will be where mould thrives. And – as always – talk to your doctor about any persistent symptoms. Keep yourself healthy and safe, and the mould at bay.

Allergies getting you down? Talk to one of our allergy specialists to talk through your concerns, achieve a diagnosis, or receive some helpful advice for managing your allergy. Register as a patient today or call us on 02031 433 449.

3 allergy hot spots around your home

25th May 2022

allergy hot spots

3 allergy hot spots around your home

Dodging your allergies can feel like a full-time job. For a large chunk of the year, you can’t even step outside without fearing the dreaded symptoms. But then you stay home, keep all your windows closed, and still find yourself suffering. What gives? 

Allergens are pesky. Especially dust and mould. They could be showing up around your home without you even realising. But fear not! By learning their favourite hiding places, you can show them the door and keep your home an allergy-free zone.

Knick-knacks

Knick-knacks are great for making a house feel like a home. They’re not so great for avoiding your allergy symptoms. Dust particles love to gather around books, photo frames, or anything else you have out in the open. 

The solution? Step up your cleaning routine. Rather than dusting around your knick-knacks, take everything down and give it a thorough clean. Also, rather than using a duster – which will just move it around – try using a damp microfiber cloth to trap the dust. The extra cleaning can feel tedious in the moment, but you’ll be grateful in the long-run.

Your bed

Your bed is somewhere you spend a large amount of time. Unfortunately, it’s also a hot spot for dust mites, pet hair, or sneaky pollen – all of which could be causing you grief.

If you suspect your bedsheets are adding to your symptoms, it’s as simple as changing them more often. And always wash them at a high temperature – ideally above 60 degrees. Your mattress, duvet, and pillows themselves can also be dust magnets. So it might be worth investing in dust covers, and vacuuming your mattress on a regular basis.

Again, this might mean a little extra housework. But look at the bright side – you get that dreamy fresh sheet feeling more often!

The shower

Those black spots in your shower aren’t just an eyesore and a pain to clean. They might also be causing that tickle in the back of your throat. Mould loves warm environments, such as your steamy bathroom post-shower. And when their spores are released into the air, you can breathe them in and experience all sorts of allergy symptoms. 

You want to do your best to prevent mould from forming in the first place. So keep your bathroom well ventilated by using the fan or opening a window or door. The less humid and damp it stays, the better. And if you do notice mould forming, opt for bleach and water to stop it in its tracks.

Allergies can be relentless. And it’s frustrating to feel like you’re not even safe in the comfort of your home. But by switching a few simple habits, you can significantly reduce the amount of allergens lurking around.

If you need extra support identifying or managing your allergies, we’d love to help. To register as a new patient or book an appointment, call us on 02031 433 449.

Three common autumn allergies and how to fight the symptoms

18th August 2021

Three common autumn allergies and how to fight the symptoms

Autumn is almost here. How time flies! For many, this time of year conjures up cosy feelings of reading a book by the fire or wading through a blanket of fallen golden leaves. 

But for others, the season can bring on a stuffy nose, teary eyes, and an out-of-sorts feeling. So what are the common autumn allergies and how can you combat them?

Weed pollen

When people think of hay fever, they usually think of the summer. While summer hay fever is incredibly common, different types of pollen release at different times of the year. Between the end of June and September, weed releases its pollen, causing hay-fever symptoms even in autumn. 

To fight a weed pollen allergy, it can help to wear a scarf, mask, or bandana over your mouth and nose to prevent pollen from irritating your nose. And it might be worth talking to your GP about taking antihistamines before the symptoms set in.

Mould

Mould is more common in the colder months as we have more damp weather, making it easier for moisture to build up. And since most mould spores are invisible to the naked eye, it’s easy for them to thrive in the home. 

Since moisture is such an important factor in mould growth, reducing the humidity in your home can help. You can use dehumidifiers and open the bathroom window to prevent steam. It’s also a good idea to rake up any leaves and debris in the garden to prevent it from growing.

Dust mites

Did you know humans aren’t actually allergic to dust mites? It’s the proteins in their droppings that sets us off. And like mould spores, moisture affects the number of dust mites in the home.

Since moisture is such an important factor, opening windows to reduce humidity can help. You can also use a microfiber cloth to clean dust. This way, the particles stick to cloth instead of dispersing into the air, which can aggravate your symptoms.

Allergies can cause a lot of disruption to your daily life. But with some preparation and forethought, you can reduce your symptoms and create a more comfortable living environment.

Are allergies getting you down? Don’t wait around. Get in touch with us at the London Allergy and Immunology Centre, or call us on 02031 433 449.

What indoor allergies to watch out for this winter

4th November 2020

What indoor allergies to watch out for this winter

This year, we’ve all spent more time indoors than we’d like. Unfortunately, that isn’t going to change as we head into winter. The cold, dreary weather is something we all want to avoid, preferring to stay indoors and keep nice and warm.

But for allergy sufferers, you could potentially be locking yourself in with things that send your allergies into overdrive. Indoors with the windows shut might keep the cold out, but it’ll also keep the allergens in. So what should you look out for this winter? What might be setting your allergies off?

Mould

No homeowner wants to find mould where they live. You dread finding some growing in a dark, damp corner of your kitchen, bathroom, or maybe even your bedroom. But that worry doubles if you have an allergy.

Mould spores can trigger an allergic reaction, leading to runny noses, sneezing, or irritation. It has also been known to trigger people with asthma and those with eczema.

It can get harder to manage in winter because you don’t always want to open the windows for ventilation. You have to decide between keeping the cold out or airing a damp room. So be mindful during the winter months to keep things dry to prevent mould.

Pet dander

Everyone loves their pets. And those without one probably wish they had one to keep them company. If you have a beloved cat or dog, you have to watch out for their dander. This is the skin they shed, but people can also react to their saliva.

So when a pet sheds their fur, the particles that fall can trigger some people’s allergies. This can become a problem if you let them use the same furniture as you, such as the sofa or bed.

The best way to deal with this is to vacuum regularly. Don’t let the dander sit for too long; try to make it a daily occurrence if you can. And wash anything they have come in contact with that you likely will too.

Dust mites

Blink and you’ll miss them, these small mites can cause massive trouble for people with allergies. It isn’t the dust mite that causes the allergy, though – it’s their droppings. It can easily set off people’s hay fever, asthma, or eczema.

Annoyingly, dust mites like to appear anywhere with soft furnishings, such as carpets or sofas, but the bedroom is a particular hotspot.

How can you help the situation? It’s very similar to mould; dust mites like humid environments, so ventilation is key. Try opening windows for a couple of hours when you aren’t in the room. And wash your sheets regularly, especially if you’re reacting to something and you’re not quite sure what.

If you find yourself suffering from a mysterious allergy this winter and you aren’t sure what it is, make sure to consult an allergy specialist. They can let you know how to handle your allergies during the winter months. In the meantime, stay safe, stay warm, and stay healthy.

At Allergy Clinic London, we have the allergy expertise you need to live a stress-free life. To talk to someone about your allergies, contact us on 02031 433 449.

It’s all fun-gus and games: mould allergy Q&A

6th November 2019

It’s all fun-gus and games: mould allergy Q&A

Mould is a name given to a selection of different fungi. Think the furry green patterns that develop on food. It’s found in all sorts of environments, both outside and inside your home. Mould spreads by releasing little spores that travel through the air. If you have a mould allergy, your immune system overreacts when you breathe in these spores, leading to allergic symptoms.

There are over 100,000 varieties of mould in existence, meaning avoiding it isn’t easy. From damp leaves to black spots decorating your bathtub, mould is everywhere. Luckily, being allergic to one variety of mould doesn’t mean you’re vulnerable to them all.

What does a mould allergy look like?

A reaction to mould looks a lot like hay fever. Expect sneezing, itching, a runny nose, congestion, and some more sneezing for good measure. Symptoms may get worse in certain seasons. For example, allergies to outdoor mould will be more common in damper environments. Or they can be year-round, as is often the case with indoor allergies.

Spores that reach the lungs can also trigger asthma-like symptoms. For people who are both asthmatic and allergic to mould, asthma can get significantly worse after a reaction.

What about mouldy food?

You know the frustration of not eating your loaf of bread quick enough? One day you’re enjoying a BLT and the next, you come downstairs to find the loaf’s been infiltrated by green spots. This is a type of mould you might be allergic to.

If you want to avoid mould allergens, don’t smell foods to check whether they’ve gone off. You’ll be inhaling the spores that trigger reactions. 

Unfortunately, mould allergies mean you should also probably lay off cheeses, especially mouldy ones. Blue cheeses like Stilton are made with a mould culture called penicillium. 

Penicillin or penicillium?

Penicillium is one of the most common varieties of mould allergy. It’s most associated with building materials, fabrics, and spoiled food.

Fear not! Although the antibiotic penicillin was developed from penicillium, being allergic to this type of mould doesn’t mean you’re allergic to penicillin. 

Are there any house hacks to avoid reaction?

To prevent mould from infiltrating your personal space, you can lower your house’s humidity. You ideally want humidity to be below 35% as anything over 50% will help fungi to thrive.

Try to increase airflow wherever possible; especially when using the shower or bath as these are the damp conditions that mould loves.

For some, mould will trigger an allergic reaction. If you think you’ve got hay fever in December, it might actually be because there was a bit too much Stilton on your Christmas cheese board! Like with any allergy, keep an eye on your symptoms and seek help if they persist or worsen over time.

If you have questions about mould or any other allergies, give us a call on 02031 433 499. We can book you an allergy test to get to the root of the problem.

Everything you need to know about airborne allergies

7th November 2018

Everything you need to know about airborne allergies

There are several types of allergies and with recent news about cafes and restaurants not fully labelling their products with the allergens they contain, the public is learning more about allergies. A lot of people are probably aware of allergies such as gluten or dairy, but what about lesser-known allergens? Airborne allergies can cause a multitude of symptoms; some are as minor as fatigue to the more irritable symptoms like itchy and watery eyes. Unfortunately, allergies can cause continuous discomfort throughout an individual’s day. Some of these might surprise you as they include everyday objects that are otherwise unassuming. These include:

• Mould
• Dust
• Pet dander

All allergies can be extremely dangerous if left untested.

Allergies such as these ones are caused by the body’s immune system treating allergens as a foreign substance. In response to this, the body reacts by producing large amounts of Immunoglobulin E (IgE). For different allergies, there are different types of IgE. These antibodies stick to the body’s mast cells which are a type of blood cell. This reaction, combined with the release of chemicals like histamine, can cause inflammation.

If you continually experience any of the following symptoms, we highly recommend requesting an allergy test:

• Runny nose
• Itchy eyes
• Coughing
• Itchy throat
• Skin rashes

Causes

If you suddenly start sneezing when you’re around allergens such as pet hair or pollen, it can be caused by a lack of exposure. If you’ve lived your life in a city with minimal plant life for example, suddenly being in a pollen-filled environment may trigger hay fever.

In some cases, you may have always had an allergy present. But it may have been so minor that you didn’t even notice as it caused minimal discomfort. It’s also possible that the allergy increased during adulthood.

Another reason may be that little exposure to bacteria and dirt may increase vulnerability to allergies as the body suppresses the natural development of the immune system. So when our immune system does come into contact with unclean environments, the body overreacts.

Management

There are several ways to manage allergies including:

• Avoiding triggering environments, ingredients, and other allergens
• Taking an antihistamine and using nasal sprays
• Regularly cleaning your home

As highlighted by the recent incidents at Pret A Manger and Wagamama, it’s extremely critical to find out whether you have allergies or not. One in five people in the UK have at least one allergy, if not more, which illustrates just how common the issue is.

If you are experiencing symptoms of an allergy or intolerance, it’s best to find out the cause as soon as possible to reduce discomfort.

If you think you might be suffering from allergies but have never had them diagnosed, why not order one of our home testing kits today? Find out once and for all what’s causing you to sneeze and cough. Request an allergy test with us today or visit our website.