How Genes Influence Mold Allergy?
Mold Allergy: An Overview
Have you ever entered a damp, musty room that has been closed for a while or has an earthy smell and instantly began sneezing??
It may be due to a mold allergy!
Mold is a type of tiny fungi found indoors and outdoors.?
The most common places to find molds are on dead, decomposing plants, in damp areas indoors, in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, or attics.
Fungi release spores as a means of reproduction.?
When mold releases its spores into the air, it can trigger an allergy in sensitive people or those prone to allergies.?
Sometimes, disturbing a mold can release its spores into the air.
Since molds can be found practically anywhere and in most weather types, mold allergies can occur throughout the year.?
Due to this, many people experience aggravated allergies during the rainy months or early spring.
What Are The Causes of Mold Allergy?
Mold allergy is caused when one?inhales airborne spores .?
The spores enter the airways and trigger an immune reaction.?
The body’s immune system cells produce certain chemicals to neutralize or kill these spores.
This results in allergic reactions.
Mold allergies are also more common in people who are allergic to other substances like dust, pollen, mites, and pet dander or have a family history of allergies.?
Molds are of different types, and being allergic to one type does not mean you will be allergic to all molds or fungi.
People in some occupations? are more likely to develop a mold allergy.?
These include:
What Are The Symptoms of Mold Allergy?
The symptoms of mold allergy are similar to those of other allergies.?
You can experience?symptoms of mold allergy ?indoors and outdoors.?
Some common symptoms include:
Your allergy symptoms may appear immediately or may be delayed.
How Long Does It Take For Mold Allergy Reactions To Subside?
Like most other allergies, the duration in which mold allergy subsides depends upon your sensitivity to molds.?
If you are not sensitive to mold, an allergy might not be long-lasting.?
Moving away from a mold-ridden area can prevent the aggravation of symptoms.?
Medications prescribed by your doctor can also help alleviate symptoms.
Mold Allergy and Asthma
Mold allergy can trigger an asthma attack.?
Though a?high concentration of fungal spores almost always causes asthma ?in susceptible individuals, studies are still underway to prove the same.?
It is important to note that asthma is usually triggered or aggravated?in people who have a history of asthma .
Genetics of Mold Allergy
Genes can be a factor in susceptibility to mold toxicity leading to serious health challenges.?
Those who carry specific changes in certain genes associated with immune responses are at increased risk for mold allergy.
The?ADAD1?Gene
Adenosine deaminase domain-containing protein 1 or ADAD1 gene is located on chromosome 4 and?is associated with celiac disease , eczema, allergic rhinitis, and asthma.
rs17388568 is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the ADAD1 gene.?
People with the?A allele of this SNP are at an increased risk of developing? allergies to different substances like pollen, dust, cats, mite, etc.
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The?IL2?Gene
Interleukin 2 or IL2 gene gives instructions to produce a protein that promotes the growth and proliferation of T and B lymphocytes.
rs2069772 is an SNP in the IL2 gene.?
People with the C allele of this SNP have a greater risk of developing mold allergy than those with the normal T allele.
The ITGB3 Gene
Integrin subunit beta 3 or ITGB3 gene gives instructions for producing?integrins , a type of protein that regulates cell growth proliferation and signaling.?
These proteins are also critical for processes related to inflammation and infection.
rs2056131 is an SNP in the ITGB3 gene.?
According to a study, people with the A?allele had a lesser risk of developing mold-induced allergy ?than those with the G allele.
Risk Factors for Mold Allergy
Several factors can increase your risk of developing or aggravating mold allergy. These include:
Complications Caused Due to Mold Allergy
Allergies can make one miserable.?
However, sometimes mold allergies can be severe.?
Some?common complications ?that can occur if mold allergy is not treated in time include:
Diagnosis of Mold Allergy
If you experience frequent bouts of allergic symptoms, consult your doctor.
Your doctor may refer you to an?allergist or an immunologist ?who specializes in determining the cause of your allergy symptoms.
After reviewing your medical and symptomatic history, the allergist will recommend blood and skin prick tests.?
These tests are routinely used to diagnose mold allergy.
What Are The Different Types of Mold Allergy Tests?
A blood test for mold allergy includes an IgE test that verifies your allergic symptoms.
Skin prick tests are extremely accurate and give results in just a few minutes.?
During this test, the allergist will use different types of mold or prick your skin to elicit a skin reaction.?
They will determine a treatment plan for you based on the results of this test.
It may also be helpful to keep a diary of your symptoms and monitor what substances are triggering an allergic reaction.
Managing and Preventing Mold Allergy
If you suspect you are allergic to mold, the best way to prevent mold allergy is to prevent or reduce exposure.?
Here are some ways to reduce your and your family’s exposure to mold:
Is There A Treatment for Mold Allergy?
After evaluating and diagnosing your mold allergy, your doctor will most likely recommend?antihistamines and decongestants ?to help control your symptoms.?
You will be advised to wear a mask to avoid the aggravation of your symptoms or if you need to go back to an area with a higher risk of mold exposure.?
If you are?expecting mold exposure? during your work or profession, taking your allergy medication in advance may help.?
If you have been to an indoor or outdoor area with greater exposure to mold, it may help to rinse your nose with saline solution.
Summary
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