Aspergillosis: Types, Causes & Symptoms – Everything You Need to Know! (2022 Updated)
Aspergillus is a fungus that thrives in humid environments with high moisture and humidity levels. These conditions are common in indoor environments, making Aspergillus commonly found in homes, workplaces, and other indoor spaces. Aspergillosis is a condition caused by these types of fungi. It’s not considered an infection because it doesn’t involve the fungus spread into the body or bloodstream.
People with asthma or other allergies are at higher risk of contracting aspergillosis because their immune system is compromised. Keep reading to learn more about this condition and how to protect yourself from contracting it if you are at risk.
What is Aspergillosis?
Aspergillosis is the term used to describe the growth and spread of any fungus, usually Aspergillus, in the lungs. This condition is not actually an infection since the fungus does not spread into the bloodstream or other organs in the body. It’s caused by breathing in spores from the fungus. Aspergillosis is most commonly seen in people with bronchiectasis, people with a history of a lung transplant, people with asthma, and people with cystic fibrosis.
It’s most commonly seen in people with a suppressed immune system, such as people with organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS, and elderly people. People with asthma and allergies may also be at a higher risk of contracting aspergillosis. The fungus spores are commonly found in the air in indoor environments and grow in moist and humid conditions. Exposure to these spores can cause an infection in people with weak immune systems.
How does Aspergillus Infection Occur?
Aspergillus spores are commonly found in the air in indoor environments. They grow in moist, humid conditions, and exposure to these spores may lead to infection. People with weak immune systems are more susceptible to an Aspergillus infection. Aspergillus spores that are inhaled usually don’t cause problems for healthy people. But for weak immune systems, the spores can grow and travel to the lungs.
Once in the lungs, an Aspergillus infection can cause a fever, cough and shortness of breath. It can also lead to other complications, including blood clots, pneumonia and pleural effusions. If an Aspergillus infection is left untreated, it can be fatal. People with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of contracting an Aspergillus infection. This includes people diagnosed with bronchiectasis, asthma and cystic fibrosis.
Symptoms of Aspergillus infection
The symptoms of Aspergillus infection can vary depending on the severity of the infection and whether it is localized or has spread to other parts of the body. Some of the most common symptoms of Aspergillus infection include:
1. Fever
A high fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit is a common symptom of an Aspergillus infection.
2. Shortness of Breath
Many people experience shortness of breath as a common symptom of an Aspergillus infection.
3. Cough
A persistent cough can be a sign of an Aspergillus infection.
4. Fatigue
A reduced energy level is common among people with Aspergillus infections.
Treatment for Aspergillus infection
The preferred treatment for an Aspergillus infection will depend on the severity of the infection. A doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection if the infection is localized to the lung. If the infection is severe, a doctor may recommend using antifungal medication. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove infected tissue.
People with a weakened immune system who have been diagnosed with an Aspergillus infection may be given antifungal medication. This may be prescribed as an oral medication or intravenous medication.
Prevention of Aspergillus infection
There’s no surefire way to prevent an Aspergillus infection. However, there are certain steps you can take to lower your risk of contracting an Aspergillus infection.
1. Stay away from humid environments
Humidity is a common breeding ground for Aspergillus. If you are susceptible to an Aspergillus infection, avoid humid environments as much as possible.
2. Wash your hands frequently
Frequent hand washing is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of contracting an infection.
3. Avoid contact with people who are sick
Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and wash your hands after being in contact with them.
4. Reduce allergies
If you have an allergy, try reducing your exposure to allergens. This can help reduce the severity of your allergies over time.
Conclusion: Understanding Aspergillosis
Aspergillosis is the term used to describe the growth and spread of any type of fungus, usually Aspergillus, in the lungs. This condition is not actually an infection since the fungus does not spread into the bloodstream or other organs in the body. It’s caused by breathing in spores from the fungus. It’s most commonly seen in people with a suppressed immune system, such as people with organ transplants and older adults. People with asthma and allergies may also be at a higher risk of contracting aspergillosis.
The fungus spores are commonly found in the air in indoor environments and grow in moist and humid conditions. Exposure to these spores can cause an infection in people with weak immune systems. Aspergillosis is most commonly seen in people with bronchiectasis, people with a history of a lung transplant, people with asthma, and people with cystic fibrosis.
You should contact your doctor if you believe you may be at risk for an Aspergillus infection. They can assess the risk and recommend appropriate steps to reduce the risk of contracting an Aspergillus infection.
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