Home>INFORMATION SHARING>The allergic reaction may caused by mold! It may be worst if you overlook it.
The allergic reaction may caused by mold! It may be worst if you overlook it.
Mold is microscopic and everywhere in our environment. Even if we cannot see it with the naked eye, it should not be ignored—especially because it can trigger allergic reactions and, in some cases, more serious illnesses.
How Mold Affects the Body
A healthy immune system can usually clear most inhaled particles such as pollen, dust mites, dust, and mold spores. However, for people with weakened immunity (for example, AIDS or diabetes patients), inhalation of spores may lead to diseases such as pulmonary aspergillosis. In this condition, spores germinate into hyphae within the lungs, forming fungal balls. Symptoms often resemble tuberculosis, including coughing blood and weight loss.
Even mild exposure can cause itchy eyes, runny nose, or asthma-like reactions—often mistaken for a cold.
Mold Allergy in Taiwan
Taiwan’s hot and humid climate, lasting from March to December, is ideal for mold growth. Besides pollen and dust mites, mold is also a major allergen. Studies show that about 10% of Taiwan’s population experiences mold-related allergies, yet it remains one of the most overlooked triggers.
Why? Because mold allergies are difficult to identify. Each person’s immune response is different, and reactions depend on both the exposure level and the type of mold. For example, among 100,000 spores, only a fraction may belong to the specific species (such as type A mold) that triggers an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
In fact, researchers remain divided:
- Some argue that reactions are caused by exposure to large numbers of spores.
- Others suggest the species of mold inhaled, not the total quantity, is the critical factor.
Mold Allergy or a Cold?
If you frequently experience symptoms like headache, runny nose, itchy eyes, or asthma, but cannot identify the cause, it may not be a cold. Instead, it could be mold allergy. In such cases, doctors recommend a serum allergy test to confirm sensitivity to mold.
Mold and Allergic Pneumonia
mold allergyMold exposure can also lead to allergic pneumonia (hypersensitivity pneumonitis), an inflammatory reaction in the lungs caused by repeated inhalation of allergens. It mainly affects the alveoli and terminal bronchi.
Common triggers include:
- Moldy sugarcane, coffee powder, tree bark, and grass
- Mold-contaminated grains and fodder
- Dust and other organic allergens
Aspergillus is one of the most common mold species associated with allergic pneumonia.
How to Reduce Mold Allergies
- Avoid allergens: The best prevention is to reduce exposure to mold-contaminated materials.
- Control humidity: Mold thrives above 60% RH; use a hygrometer and dehumidifier to keep levels down.
- Ventilation: Good airflow lowers allergen concentration indoors.
- Limit mold growth: Standard air purifiers cannot completely remove tiny spores; the key is to prevent mold from spreading in the first place.
Conclusion
Mold allergies are often mistaken for colds, yet they can significantly affect health. In Taiwan’s humid climate, awareness is crucial:
- Mold spores are everywhere and difficult to eliminate.
- Allergic responses vary depending on individual sensitivity and mold species.
- Prevention through humidity control, ventilation, and proper storage is the most effective defense.
At YCM, we provide professional consulting and testing services to help detect mold risks and reduce allergen exposure in both residential and industrial environments.
Welcome to join YCM official Line, and we can answer any moldy questions immediately!
Welcome to join the YCM fan club and get the YCM information at once.
