Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis is usually caused by breathing in tiny bits of mould.

The mould is found in lots of places, including:

• soil, compost and rotting leaves
• plants, trees and crops
• dust
• bedding
• damp buildings
• air conditioning systems

You cannot catch aspergillosis from someone else or from animals.

Symptoms of aspergillosis include:

• shortness of breath
• a cough – you may cough up blood or lumps of mucus
• wheezing
• a high temperature
• losing weight without trying
• feeling tired

If you already have a lung condition, your symptoms may get worse.

• you have a cough for more than 3 weeks
• you have a lung condition that's getting worse or harder to control with your usual treatment
• you have a weakened immune system and symptoms of aspergillosis

It can be difficult to diagnose aspergillosis and may take time. A GP will check your symptoms are not being caused by something else, like a chest infection.

If they're not sure what's causing your symptoms, they may refer you to a specialist for tests such as:

• X-rays and scans
• blood tests or tests on a sample of mucus
• allergy tests
• a bronchoscopy (where a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the end is used to look inside your lungs)

Treatment for aspergillosis depends on the type you have and usually aims to help control the symptoms.

If it's not treated or well controlled, there's a risk it could damage your lungs.

It's almost impossible to completely avoid aspergillus mould.

But there are things you can do to lower your chances of getting aspergillosis if you have a lung condition or weakened immune system.

• try to avoid places where aspergillus mould is often found, such as compost heaps and piles of dead leaves

• open your windows several times a day to air your rooms, especially if you're cooking or using a shower

• wear a face mask in dusty places or when you're gardening

• consider using a dehumidifier and an air purifier with a HEPA filter at home

• keep your house heated at between 18 and 21C in cold weather

• do not dry your laundry in your bedroom or living areas, if possible – ideally dry it outside or in a tumble dryer

• do not open your windows if there's construction work or digging outside

Aspergillosis is usually caused by breathing in tiny bits of mould found in soil, compost, dust, damp buildings and air conditioning.

Symptoms of aspergillosis include shortness of breath, wheezing, a high temperature, weight loss and feeling tired. You may cough up blood or mucus.

It can take time to diagnose aspergillosis. A GP will check your symptoms are not being caused by something else. They may refer you to a specialist.

Treatment for aspergillosis can be lifelong and can include taking steroid tablets and antifungal medicines. Some people may need surgery.

You cannot prevent aspergillosis, but you can lower your chance of getting it by trying to avoid mould and keeping your home damp-free.