Mold is an indoor allergen and grows wherever there is moisture. The best way to control mold is to keep the environment clean and dry. Plumbing leaks are common causes of water intrusion in the home and will lead to mold growth. When mold spores are present in the air, allergic conditions such as asthma, hives, and nasal allergies can develop or worsen.
Allergy skin testing can detect allergy to mold. A panel of mold allergens can be placed on your back. If after placing the mold panel welts and/or redness develop, this indicates mold allergy.
There are two types of molds. Wet molds like Penicillium and Aspergillus which are typically found indoors with water intrusion (i.e. plumbing leaks) and dry molds like alternaria which are typically found outdoors. Dry molds will blow in from the desert with the dry Santa Ana winds.
If mold is present in your home, it should be remediated to prevent a flare of your allergy symptoms. If remediatation is not possible, leaving the home may be necessary to prevent worsening of allergy symptoms. In addition, dehumidification may be somewhat effective in decreasing mold growth.
Mold
Location
11645 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1150
Brentwood
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Phone: 310-909-1910
Fax: 310-909-1911
Office Hours