Does the presence of mold in your home have you running for the hills? It likely should due to the dangerous health effects many types of mold can bring about in both humans and animals. In many of our previous articles, we’ve gone over the dangerous health effects mold can lead to. However, many people may wonder if breathing in mold can lead to mold growing inside the body. While many believe that mold growing in the lungs in a myth, it’s actually accurate. And, something that can be a great risk for people who already have lung issues like emphysema, asthma, and COPD. Or, people who have immune systems which don’t function at 100%.
Discovering what Aspergillosis Is and how it Happens
Aspergillosis is a condition that is characterized by either an allergic reaction or infection of the lungs due to the inhalation of mold. The most common type of mold that causes this condition is aspergillus fumigatus, which can live and grow in both in and outdoor environments. It’s important to note that inhaling mold usually doesn’t cause mold growth in the lungs for average, healthy people. However, those diagnosed with lung conditions, allergies, and/or immune system issues are prone to the development of aspergillosis. While aspergillus fumigatus can grow on food and waste, it’s most often found indoors in A/C units that haven’t been properly maintained with cleaning or those which leak excess water.
Some Symptoms of Aspergillosis
Wondering if you or a loved one may be affected by aspergillosis? While a diagnosis from a doctor is essential for getting needed treatment, it’s possible to identify aspergillosis by recognizing common early symptoms including:
- Coughing
- Chest pains
- Fatigue
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
Some more advanced symptoms of aspergillosis may include:
- Fever
- Sweating
- Chills
- Kidney failure
- Liver failure
- Coughing up blood
- Mucous
- Difficulty exercising
Obviously, people with prior lung issues like asthma, COPD, and lung cancer may already experience all of these symptoms and more. However, with aspergillosis, these symptoms may get worse. In any case, it’s best to get an accurate diagnosis from an experienced physician. This way, you can understand what you can expect as far as treatment. And, get the medical attention you need to get better.
Other Lung Infections Caused by Mold Spores in the Lungs
Along with aspergillosis, there are other types of mold which can thrive in the lungs, leading to similar symptoms as mentioned above. These two conditions are histoplasmosis and coccidioidomycosis. Again, the best way to determine if you or a loved one has mold in the lungs is to talk to a doctor about symptoms and get tests performed to determine which type of mold is the cause of infection.
Diagnostic Testing for Mold in Lungs
Speak to your doctor about the signs and symptoms you’re experiencing. This way, he or she can conduct a few medical tests to determine the exact condition. These tests may include:
X Rays: Imaging such as x rays and CT scans can show the presence of mold in the lungs to help create an accurate diagnosis.
Biopsy: This includes a minor surgical operation in which the physician removes a small sample of lung tissue to send to the lab for testing of mold.
Blood tests: Blood and skin tests can be helpful in determining if a person has allergic reactions to the presence of mold, which is a common cause of the development of lung infection due to mold presence.
Mucus Sample: If mold is present in the lungs, a sample of mucus and saliva may help to determine its presence immediately.
Prevention is Key to Keeping Lungs Safe from Mold
The best thing to do to prevent any dangerous effects of mold including mold growing in lungs is to prevent mold from growing in your home at all times. D youo think your home has mold and you are worried about the safety of yourself or your family? If so, a professional mold remediation company can help to determine the presence of mold. And, to perform proper and safe mold removal so that you and your family are no longer at risk for mold-related health issues.
Looking for a professional, licensed, bonded, and insured mold removal company in South Florida? Call A Plus Mold Remediation Inc. today at 561-247-3506 for your free quote!