Snow mould may be the culprit of some residents feeling less than optimal as we enter spring melt with warming temperatures.

Most people associate allergies with increased pollen in the air and blooming flowers later in the spring, however with warmer weather, mould that remained dormant through the winter could now be active and airborne causing a myriad of symptoms. 

Additionally, moisture that built up inside during the winter months due to condensation, reduced airflow from having windows shut during the colder months and warmer temperatures, create a perfect environment for the growth of mould and mildew.

In the case of snow mould, dead vegetation is a common breeding ground for the fungus and the cold temperatures and frost in winter do not kill the mould, rather, many moulds will become dormant. Reports state that when the temperatures begin to rise above zero, they can become active and the spores can easily make their way into the air and inhaled, causing allergy like symptoms among other negative side effects.

Typical outdoor spring cleaning including raking, composting or cleaning up debris left over from last fall, all have the potential of making mould airborne.

Indoors, mould and mildew can easily accumulate in warm, humid areas, namely bathrooms and kitchens. However, excess moisture in any area of the home, including condensation in window sills or peeling paint surrounding windows can indicate a problem area.

According to mayoclinic.org, signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction to mould are similar to those of other seasonal allergies including:
• sneezing
• runny or stuffy nose
• cough and postnasal drip
• itchy eyes, nose and throat
• watery eyes
• dry, scaly skin

The article also states that even in non-allergic individuals, other symptoms can also be present, including:
• nausea
• fatigue
• fever
• rashes

Other symptoms affecting your respiratory system may also reveal themselves and those who suffer from asthma could experience more severe symptoms including shortness of breath and wheezing and could also prompt an asthma attack.

Antihistamines and other allergy medications are available to help alleviate symptoms, however, locating and removing the mould that is causing the issue is obviously the best course of action.

Cleaning up your yard of debris including leaves and grass clippings will help eliminate some sources of the snow mould, However, It is always advised to wear a mask to avoid breathing in the spores while you are disposing of them, and for sensitive individuals, goggles and gloves are also recommended.

Indoors, many may quickly reach for a bottle of bleach to rid their walls and ceilings from the fungus, however, according to moldpedia.com, there are other products that can also aid in mould removal, including:
• borax
• vinegar
• ammonia
• hydrogen peroxide
• detergent
• baking soda
• tea tree oil
• grapefruit seed extract

It is likely not a bad idea to continue to check the area where the mould colony was to ensure you have killed all of the mould, especially on porous surfaces as the roots can move deeper into the surface.

It is always advised to consult your doctor if your symptoms are of concern and if you are planning to take any over-the-counter medication to make sure it will not interact with any other medications you may be taking.