ABC27 WHTM Post-flooding mold makes many miserable with allergies

Post-flooding mold makes many miserable with allergies

Thanks to the flood of 2011, and the record-breaking wet year, allergist Dr. Robert Zuckerman said the resulting mold is making many miserable inside their homes.

"What's going on inside the house is probably 10 to 100 times greater mold accumulation than what people are used to," he said.

As a result, Mike McHugh ended up at the doctor's office to stop an asthma attack.

"When I got here, I couldn't breathe," he said. "There was a little flooding in the basement, sewer backing up. The doctor said that could have been the start of it.

In addition to causing breathing issues, Dr. Zuckerman said mold can make you feel tired and even give you fevers. To deal with the symptoms, he recommends going over the counter for medications like Allegra, Claritin and Zyrtec - or opting for a cheaper generic equivalent.

"But if you have asthma, be on your asthma medicine," he said.  For more serious reactions you may need steroids , or even antibiotics if you get an infection.

As for keeping mold out of your home, you should get rid of leaks first. "Dehumidifiers and sump pumps get rid of water in most peoples homes," Dr. Zuckerman said. 

It's important to wear gloves, masks and eye protection before cleaning up. Dr. Zuckerman recommends using Lysol or bleach to clean mold from solid surfaces.