Question 1

What is Mold Allergy?

Accepted Answer

Mold allergy is an immune system overreaction to mold spores found indoors and outdoors. It is caused by exposure to common mold species including Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Cladosporium herbarum, and Penicillium notatum. The Respiratory Allergy Profile is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures specific IgE antibodies to identify which mold allergens trigger your symptoms.

Question 2

What causes mold allergy?

Accepted Answer

Mold allergy is caused by your immune system overreacting to mold spores from species like Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Cladosporium herbarum, and Penicillium notatum. When you breathe in these microscopic spores, your body produces immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies that trigger allergic reactions. These molds are present year-round both indoors in damp areas like basements and bathrooms, and outdoors in soil, compost, and decaying vegetation, making exposure difficult to avoid completely.

Question 3

What is the best test for mold allergy?

Accepted Answer

The Respiratory Allergy Profile is the most important test for mold allergy because it measures specific IgE antibodies to identify exactly which mold species trigger your symptoms. For California Central Valley residents, the Respiratory Allergy Profile Region XIV tests for Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Cladosporium herbarum, and Penicillium notatum. For those in Georgia, northern Florida, and South Carolina, the Respiratory Allergy Panel Region III detects IgE antibodies to common southeastern molds including Penicillium notatum. These regional panels provide targeted results based on the molds you are most likely to encounter in your specific geographic area, helping your doctor create an effective treatment plan.

Question 4

When should I get tested for mold allergy?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, or itchy eyes that worsen in damp environments or during humid weather. Get tested if your symptoms flare up when you are in basements, bathrooms, or areas with visible mold growth, or if over-the-counter allergy medications are not providing relief. Testing is especially important if you have asthma that worsens with respiratory symptoms, as mold allergies can trigger serious asthma attacks and knowing your specific triggers helps you avoid dangerous exposures.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of mold allergy?

Accepted Answer

Mold allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and postnasal drip. You might notice coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing, especially if you have asthma. Some people develop itchy skin, rashes, or hives after mold exposure. Symptoms typically worsen in damp, humid conditions or when spending time in areas with visible mold growth like basements, bathrooms, or during outdoor activities in wooded areas with decaying vegetation.

Question 6

Who is at risk for mold allergy?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of allergies or asthma have a higher risk of developing mold allergies. Those who work in high-mold environments like farming, logging, baking, carpentry, or greenhouse work face increased exposure. Living in homes with high humidity, poor ventilation, or water damage increases your risk. People with weakened immune systems, chronic lung diseases, or existing allergies to other substances are more susceptible to developing mold sensitivities and experiencing severe reactions.

Question 7

What happens if mold allergy is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated mold allergy can lead to chronic sinusitis with persistent facial pain, nasal congestion, and sinus infections requiring antibiotics. Ongoing exposure can trigger or worsen asthma, leading to frequent asthma attacks, permanent airway damage, and decreased lung function over time. Some people develop allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, a serious condition where Aspergillus mold colonizes the lungs causing severe breathing problems. Chronic inflammation from untreated allergies can significantly reduce your quality of life and lead to sleep disturbances, fatigue, and missed work or school.

Question 8

Can mold allergy be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Mold allergy can be definitively diagnosed with a blood test that measures specific IgE antibodies to different mold species. The blood test identifies exactly which molds trigger your immune response by detecting antibodies to Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Penicillium, and other common molds. Blood testing is particularly useful because it does not require stopping antihistamines beforehand, is not affected by skin conditions, and poses no risk of triggering allergic reactions during testing. Regional respiratory allergy panels provide the most comprehensive diagnosis by testing for molds common in your geographic area.

Question 9

How is mold allergy treated?

Accepted Answer

Mold allergy is treated primarily by avoiding mold exposure and using medications to control symptoms. Antihistamines reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose, while nasal corticosteroid sprays decrease inflammation and congestion. Decongestants provide short-term relief for stuffiness, and leukotriene modifiers help with breathing difficulties. For severe allergies, your doctor may recommend allergy shots (immunotherapy) that gradually desensitize your immune system to specific molds. Controlling indoor humidity below 50 percent, using HEPA filters, and promptly addressing water damage and mold growth in your home are essential parts of treatment.

Question 10

How can I prevent mold allergy symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Prevent mold allergy symptoms by keeping indoor humidity below 50 percent using dehumidifiers and ensuring proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens. Fix water leaks promptly, clean visible mold with bleach solutions, and throw away moldy items that cannot be cleaned. Use HEPA air filters in bedrooms and common areas, and avoid outdoor activities during high mold count days, especially in wooded areas with decaying leaves. Wear a mask when doing yard work, raking leaves, or working in damp areas, and keep windows closed during humid weather to prevent outdoor mold spores from entering your home.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with mold allergy?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies for mold allergy include rinsing your nasal passages with saline solution to flush out mold spores and reduce congestion. Using a neti pot or saline spray helps clear mucus and allergens from your sinuses. Quercetin, a natural antihistamine found in onions, apples, and berries, may help stabilize immune cells that release histamine. Local honey might provide mild relief by exposing you to small amounts of local pollen and mold spores. Drinking plenty of water, using essential oils like eucalyptus for steam inhalation, and eating anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3 rich fish can support your immune system, though these should complement rather than replace medical treatment for severe allergies.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Mold Allergy Blood Test

What is Mold Allergy?

What causes mold allergy?

What is the best test for mold allergy?

When should I get tested for mold allergy?

References

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