Contrary to popular belief, black mold isn’t actually a mold species. Black mold refers to several fungi species with black or dark green coloring.

Black mold and other problematic fungi produce spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOC). Generally speaking, those with mold allergies are generally allergic to spores or MVOCs. When your immune system is hypersensitive to either, it releases chemicals that cause inflation in your nose, eyes, and lungs.

Note that you note that even if you don’t have allergies, you still may experience irritation from black mold exposure. Symptoms of black mold exposure are similar to sinus problems: coughing, sneezing, red eyes, and nasal congestion. Additionally, it can worsen or trigger asthma symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, dry cough, and chest tightness.

How do you get yourself tested, and what are your treatment options? Read on to learn.

Who is Most Affected by Black Mold?

As we mentioned above, black mold is a particularly difficult toxin for those with one of several pre-existing conditions. 
They Include: 

• Allergies or a family history of allergies
• Asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• The immunocompromised

How is a Black Mold Allergy Diagnosed?

You need to consult an allergist who can help you diagnose a black mold allergy through tests.You’ll likely be subject to one of two tests: a skin prick or a blood test.

The Skin Prick Test

In this test, your allergist will inject you with small amounts of black mold allergens, which are intended to help you develop tolerance to the fungus.

Within 15 minutes of this injection, you should begin seeing a bodily reaction. This may include red, gray, or white skin discoloration and wheals—round, discolored, bug-bite-like spots.

Your allergist will then have you wait. Typically, it takes 15 minutes for your reaction to begin. If you develop a bump on the injection site, you’re allergic.

The Blood (IgE) Test

Sometimes called the radio allergen test, the blood test measures your immune system’s response to mold. Medical professionals can tell if you have mold sensitivity by assessing the amount of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood.

Your healthcare provider will extract a small amount of blood and then send it to a lab for testing. After a week or longer, you should have your results back.

On the downside, the blood test is more prone to false positives than the skin prick.

How is a Black Mold Allergy Treated?

While you can’t cure yourself of black mold allergies, you have a few options for treating the symptoms.

The following treatments have been shown to ease symptoms associated with black mold allergy or exposure.

• Nasal sprays. Over-the-counter nasal sprays can work wonders. Such medicines work by reducing the airway inflammation that comes with mold allergies. For a more DIY approach, you can also rinse your nasal passageways with distilled water and saline to help ease congestion and clean any spores.
• Over-the-counter medications. Look for antihistamines like cetirizine—Zyrtec—or loratadine—Claritin. These can reduce your immune system’s response, which should help minimize airway inflammation. You can also keep the swelling down with Sudafed and other decongestants.
• Montelukast: This prescription medication eases mold allergies and asthma symptoms by reducing mucus in your airways.
• Allergy shots. Getting injected with small amounts of allergens can help your immune system’s response to allergens like mold. Your doctor may recommend regular shots.

Mold Prevention Should Be a Priority

You can’t get rid of black mold allergies, though, you have more than a few options for treating symptoms. At the end of the day, the best way to prevent black mold allergies is to avoid black mold altogether. 

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