Mould allergy in children
Children in particular are generally more at risk of developing allergies than adults because their immune system is not yet fully developed.A mold allergy usually occurs when mold is present in the house, especially in the children’s room. This can form in potted plants or on cold walls, for example, but also in food. Children also have an increased risk of developing allergic asthma.
The first symptoms in children are usually coughing, stuffy noses, sneezing fits, and even the development of asthma. The diagnosis of a mold allergy is often not easy, because on the one hand, the fungus is not always directly visible and many tests can also give false results. If there is a mold allergy, gardening should be avoided and children should not have potted plants in the room. The allergy in children can be treated with medication. However, since these can often make them tired and thus lead to difficulties, especially at school, hyposensitization is usually recommended for children.
Summary
Molds exist both in the domestic environment and outside. Mould growth requires damp and warm environments. Furthermore, organic adherent surfaces must be present.
Bathrooms that are poorly ventilated or forests on humid, warm days provide an excellent breeding ground for mold. The seeds of the molds are called spores and trigger the actual allergic reaction in those affected. The spores are so small that they can be inhaled unnoticed and are so resistant that even high temperatures can do little to them.
Once spores have been inhaled, an allergic reaction begins in the body. First, a protein is formed that binds with the foreign body (IgE). A mast cell then binds itself to this total complex.
With a renewed contact with a mold spore, the mast cell can burst and release histamine. Among other things, histamine triggers a contraction of the bronchi, which can lead to breathing difficulties, the most common symptom of a mold allergy. To diagnose a mold allergy, patient interviews, gaze diagnosis, allergy test and blood tests are available. Treatment should include cortisone, Fenistil, Ranitidine and avoidance of contact with mold.