A fungal infection that affects mainly the lungs though can occur anywhere and affects weak immune system patients mainly.
The fungus is from:
Decaying leaves, trees (tree-bark chippings), crops, compost, damp grain and plants
Buildings: air conditioning system, heating systems, carpets, dust, insulation materials, damp insulation, fireproofing material, bedding, behind sofas and/or in the corner of damp rooms.
Everyday activities, such as gardening and household vacuum cleaning, can lead to the airborne release of Aspergillus spores.
Dust
Pepper and spices
This condition tends to occur in winter months.
As part of its life cycle, Aspergillus releases large quantities of conidia (asexual spores) into the air and, therefore, can be found in both outdoor and indoor environments. Inhalation of Aspergillus conidia is generally a daily event, but only a small proportion of people develop clinical disease and are at an increased risk of developing aspergillosis (e.g. people with weakened immune systems and/or damaged lungs).
Aspergillosis is not contagious and Aspergillus cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Healthy adults normally fight this infection.
The Pharmaceutical Journal, PJ, July 2019, Vol 303, No 7927;303(7927):DOI:10.1211/
High temperature greater than 38°C (100°F) or over and/or chills and sweats longer than 72hours?
Headache which is on and off or a constant headache longer than 24 hours?
Initially a persistent dry cough which has now become a chesty cough with yellow/green and/or blood stained phlegm?
General discomfort (muscle weakness), uneasiness or ill feeling (malaise) and/or fatigue (tiredness)?
Runny nose, congestion, loss of smell and/or cold not cleared by over the counter medication or greater than three weeks (review on day 10 and if symptoms are worsening)?
Dry cough longer than three weeks or breathing difficulties?
Shallow and rapid breathing?
Unexplained weight loss?
Complications /Information to beware of/General tips:
Do not wait phone for an ambulance if have or develop:
A H.I.V test should be offered if one has this condition.
Please talk to your healthcare professional (i.e. Medical Doctor/Pharmacist) for further advice
Detailed Information
Please copy and paste any key words from the title: Aspergillosis in the following respective 'Medtick References and/or Sources' to find out more about the disease (this also may include diagnosis tests and generic medical treatments).
The Pharmaceutical Journal covers analysis, features, opinion, learning and careers articles, providing insight and knowledge about drugs, pharmacy practice, medicines use and healthcare policy in the context of the pharmacy profession and pharmaceutical science.
Healthy changes start with little changes. Whether you want to lose weight, drink less alcohol, get active or quit smoking, you have access to lots of free tools and support through Better Health. You can also find simple ways to lift your mood with Every Mind Matters.
There has never been a better time to kickstart your health. Let’s do this!
