houston residents are facing a persistent allergen due to the region’s subtropical climate: mold spores. Unlike seasonal pollens, mold can be a year-round concern, with counts often elevated during cooler, damp winter months. Though, this summer’s consistent rainfall in Houston has maintained steady mold spore levels, prompting an examination of its health impacts by local experts.
dr. Duyen Nguyen, an allergist with Memorial Hermann, highlighted a particular concern: the amplified risk of asthma attacks for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions when exposed to mold spores. “Studies show mold spore allergies increase the risk of asthma attack. Patients with asthma can get worse when exposed to mold spores,” Dr. Nguyen stated.
for newcomers to Houston, adapting to the local mold varieties can take time. Dr. Nguyen explained that genetic predisposition plays a role, and it typically takes one to two years for the body to develop antibodies to new environmental allergens. Fortunately, she noted that mold allergies are often manageable with over-the-counter medications similar to those used for seasonal allergies. More severe reactions warrant consultation with an allergist.
The broader impact of climate change on allergy seasons in Southeast Texas is also becoming evident, potentially leading to longer and more intense periods of allergic reactions. Increased rainfall can contribute to higher mold spore counts. Concurrently, research indicates that certain pollens, such as Ragweed, are demonstrating greater resilience to drought and changing climate conditions. Houston has recently recorded its initial counts of Ragweed pollen, which typically appears from August through November, suggesting a possible earlier peak this year.
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