How Mold Affects Allergies & Asthma

For people with allergies and asthma, exposure to mold can trigger symptoms, worsen respiratory conditions, and make breathing more difficult. Even if you don’t have pre-existing respiratory issues, mold exposure can lead to new sensitivities and long-term health complications.

Mold spores are microscopic and travel through the air, contaminating indoor spaces and reducing air quality. Once inhaled, they can cause inflammation, irritation, and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

In this guide, we’ll explore how mold impacts allergies and asthma, common symptoms of exposure, and how to prevent mold from affecting your indoor air quality.

Why Mold Triggers Allergies & Asthma

Mold spreads by releasing airborne spores, which can be inhaled into the lungs. These spores irritate the respiratory system and cause the body to produce an immune response.

For people with allergies, mold exposure can lead to persistent inflammation and allergy flare-ups. For asthma sufferers, mold spores can trigger severe attacks by irritating the airways and increasing mucus production.

Common Allergy Symptoms from Mold Exposure

If you are allergic to mold, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms when indoors:

✔ Sneezing and nasal congestion

✔ Itchy, watery, or red eyes

✔ Runny nose and post-nasal drip

✔ Coughing or throat irritation

✔ Skin rashes or hives

These symptoms can often be confused with seasonal allergies, but if they persist year-round or worsen indoors, mold could be the cause.

How Mold Worsens Asthma Symptoms

For people with asthma, exposure to mold spores can make breathing more difficult and increase the frequency and severity of attacks.

Signs that mold is triggering asthma include:

✔ Increased wheezing or chest tightness

✔ More frequent asthma flare-ups indoors

✔ Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

✔ Persistent coughing that doesn’t go away

✔ Greater reliance on inhalers or medication

If you or a loved one with asthma experiences worsening symptoms indoors, mold testing is recommended to rule out air quality concerns.

Where Mold Commonly Grows Indoors

Mold thrives in moist, poorly ventilated areas where humidity is high. Some of the most common mold-prone areas in homes include:

• Bathrooms – Showers, tile grout, under sinks

• Basements – Walls, floors, insulation, carpets

• Kitchens – Around sinks, under cabinets, behind refrigerators

• Attics & Crawl Spaces – Due to poor airflow and condensation buildup

• HVAC Systems – Air ducts, vents, filters, and humidifiers

If mold is present in your home, its spores can circulate through your air system and trigger allergic reactions even if you don’t see visible mold growth.

How to Reduce Mold Allergies & Prevent Asthma Flare-Ups

1. Control Humidity Levels

Mold thrives in humidity levels above 50%. Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to keep humidity between 30-50%.

✔ Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce moisture.

✔ Fix leaks immediately in plumbing, roofs, and basements.

✔ Ventilate properly by keeping air moving with fans and open windows.

2. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Reducing airborne mold spores can help prevent allergy and asthma symptoms.

✔ Use HEPA air purifiers to filter out mold spores.

✔ Replace HVAC filters regularly to trap mold and allergens.

✔ Schedule professional duct cleaning to prevent mold buildup in vents.

3. Clean and Dry Damp Areas Regularly

✔ Wipe down wet surfaces in bathrooms and kitchens daily.

✔ Wash bedding, curtains, and upholstery frequently to remove allergens.

✔ Use mold-resistant materials in high-moisture areas, such as mold-resistant drywall or paint.

4. Get a Professional Mold Inspection

If you suspect hidden mold, schedule a mold inspection and air quality test to determine whether mold is impacting your health.

At MoldPros, we use Instascope technology for real-time mold detection, helping you take action before your allergies or asthma worsen.

Take Control of Your Indoor Air Quality

If you or your family members are experiencing allergy or asthma symptoms indoors, don’t ignore the signs. Mold could be the hidden cause.

📞 Call us today for a professional mold inspection: 412-628-3011

🌐 Visit us online: www.westpamoldpros.com

📍 Serving Pittsburgh & Western PA