Aspergillus
People with a weakened immune system or lung disease have a higher risk of developing health problems with Aspergillus.
Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that mainly affects the lungs and is caused by a fungus known as Aspergillus that lives indoors and outdoors. We all breathe in the air that contains the fungus. But those whose immune systems are weakened are affected. Long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids, or if you have health problems such as AIDS or cancer, weakens the immune system and makes it susceptible to infection. Aspergillosis is a treatable condition, but you should not delay going to a healthcare provider. Doing so can lead to life-threatening infections.
How many types of aspergillosis are there?
1- Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA)
ABPA is a type of aspergillosis in which the fungus attacks the lungs and represents an allergic reaction, which causes coughing and wheezing. It may be an allergy but not be called as an infection. People with asthma and cystic fibrosis are more likely to have it.
2- Allergic Aspergillus Sinusitis
Aspergillus In allergic sinusitis, the fungus attacks the sinuses and makes them inflamed, causing sinusitis. It indicates a stuffy nose, a headache and a stuffy nose.
3- Azole Resistant Aspergillus Fumigatus
Azoles are a class of medicines used to treat yeast infections. Sometimes aspergillosis becomes resistant to these drugs, making it difficult to treat. This condition is called azole-resistant Aspergillus fumigatus.
4- Aspergilloma
Aspergilloma, also called mushroom ball, is a condition in which the fungus lives in the lungs or sinuses and replicates there. However, it does not spread to other parts of the body.
5- Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis
When aspergillosis persists in the lungs for more than three months, it is called chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. In addition, there may be one or more fungal balls in the lungs. If you suffer from chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, consult your best pulmonologist.
6- Invasive Aspergillosis
From the lungs, when the fungus spreads to other parts of the body, it is called invasive aspergillosis. This is a serious or sensitive condition or situation that may needs immediate treatment. Invasive aspergillosis is more common in people with weakened immune systems, either due to long-term use of immunosuppressants or to any condition such as AIDS or cancer.
7- Aspergillosis of the skin
Cutaneous aspergillosis refers to a fungal infection of the skin. This can happen when the invasive aspergillosis reaches the skin or when the fungus infects the skin through any cut or wound. It is more common in people that have weakened immune systems.
What are the symptoms of Aspergillosis?
The signs and symptoms of aspergillosis can vary depending on the situation. It may show the following symptoms.
- Fever
- Unintentional weight loss
- Cough
- Blood in the saliva
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Blood in the urine
- Low urine production
- Difficulty in speaking
- Headache
If you have these symptoms and you want to consult the best general practitioner.
What are the causes of Aspergillosis?
Aspergillosis can occur if you have the Aspergillus fungus and your immune system is weak. When our immune system is strong & healthy, our body kills the fungus & gets rid of it. But if your immune system is weakened by a health condition such as AIDS or cancer, or if you are taking immune medications such as corticosteroids, the fungus can attack your body more easily. Aspergillus fungus is found in manure, stored grains, dead leaves, decaying plants and marijuana leaves.
Are there any risk factors for aspergillosis?
Risk factors for aspergillosis can be as follows.
- Weak immune system
- Low number of white blood cells
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Long-term use of immunosuppressants
- Recent organ transplants
Outcome
Aspergillosis is a fungal infection in your lungs. However, sometimes it can only cause allergies. It may not be transmitted or transfer from one person to another person. Also, people with weakened immune systems are affected. Consult the best pulmonologist for treatment of this infection.