Chicago residents have been experiencing very high mold counts this September. Saturday mold counts hit 81,000, the highest count in five years, reports Medical News Today. Any mold count above 50,000 signals dangerous air quality – and the reported count is for outside air alone; inside counts could be even higher.

Dr. Joseph Leija, allergist at Loyola Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, describes symptoms that can occur when mold counts are high: "Heavy chest and difficulty breathing, runny noses and fatigue will be common among Chicagoans with sensitive respiratory systems."

Dr. Leija also cites the conditions that have led to these exceptionally high levels of mold, pointing out that wind, heavy rains, humidity, and barometric pressure changes have all contributed. While high mold levels are unhealthy for everyone, those with allergies and asthma should be especially on the alert. Exposure to mold can trigger allergies and lead to asthma attacks. Dr. Leija advises, "Asthma sufferers should stay indoors and rest as much as possible, take their allergy medications and consult their allergist if symptoms worsen."

To read more about mold and its effect on allergies and asthma, check out the following:

Mold and Mildew Solution Guide
Mold FAQ
Mold Allergy and Food Sensitvity
All About Mold Allergies in Winter
Five Things Every Allergy Sufferer Needs to Know about Mold