14770 Aspergillosis

Overview

Aspergillosis is a group of conditions caused by a common type of mold called Aspergillus. This mold is found almost everywhere – in soil, dust, and damp buildings. Most people breathe in these spores without any problems, but in some people it can trigger allergies, cause lung problems, or lead to serious infection.

Aspergillosis is not common. Many people are exposed to Aspergillus mold every day, but only a small number develop illness.

It can affect anyone, but it is more likely in people with asthma, cystic fibrosis, a weakened immune system (such as after an organ transplant or during chemotherapy), or existing lung damage.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Persistent cough
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Coughing up blood
• Chest pain
• Fever that does not go away
• Sinus congestion or headaches

Symptoms in children

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Chronic cough
• Poor weight gain or slow growth
• Repeated chest infections

Symptoms in older adults

• Tiredness and weakness
• Confusion or feeling unwell
• Worsening of long-term lung disease, such as COPD

Causes

Main causes

• Aspergillosis is caused by breathing in spores of the Aspergillus mold.
• It is not passed from person to person.

Risk factors

• Asthma or allergic rhinitis
• Cystic fibrosis
• Weakened immune system (from medicines, organ transplant, cancer treatment, or advanced HIV)
• Previous lung disease such as tuberculosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Working in environments with high mold exposure (e.g., farming, construction, or grain handling)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have a high fever, chills, or are coughing up blood.
• You have severe breathlessness or chest pain.
• You have a weakened immune system and develop a cough or fever.

Book a routine appointment if:

• You are using your asthma or other lung inhalers more often but symptoms are still getting worse.
• You have a cough that lasts more than three weeks.
• You have tiredness, weight loss, or frequent sinus infections.

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and possible exposure to mold. They may listen to your chest and arrange tests depending on the likely type of aspergillosis.

Tests that may be done

• Chest X-ray or CT scan
• Blood tests to check for antibodies or signs of infection
• Sputum culture (a sample of phlegm)
• Bronchoscopy and biopsy (a thin tube with a camera to take a small sample from the lungs)
• Allergy skin tests or blood tests for allergic forms

What to expect at your appointment

You may need to see a lung specialist (pulmonologist) or an infectious disease specialist. These tests can take several days or weeks, but you will be kept informed of the results.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type and severity of aspergillosis. Some people need no treatment, others need medicines to control allergy or infection. It is important to follow your doctor's advice and to finish any prescribed course.

Self-care at home

• Avoid damp, moldy environments where possible
• Use a mask if working in high-risk places like farms or building sites
• Take your regular medicines for asthma or other lung conditions as prescribed
• Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
• Keep your home dry and well-ventilated

Medical treatments

Treatment may include antifungal medicines (given by mouth or into a vein) for invasive or chronic forms, or anti-inflammatory and allergy medicines for allergic forms. Your doctor will decide the best plan based on your test results and overall health.

When is surgery considered?

Rarely, surgery may be needed to remove a fungal ball (aspergilloma) or to stop bleeding from the lungs.

Living with this condition

Living with aspergillosis can be stressful. Most people with mild forms manage well with medication and regular check-ups. It is helpful to learn what triggers your symptoms and to have a clear action plan with your care team.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay as active as you feel able
• Get good quality sleep
• Avoid smoking and protect your lungs
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Call your healthcare team early if symptoms change

Diet and exercise

There is no specific diet for aspergillosis, but eating a balanced diet can support your immune system. Gentle exercise, such as walking, may improve your energy and lung function, as long as it feels comfortable.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Long-term illness can affect your mental wellbeing, especially if you feel worried or isolated. Talk to your doctor if you are feeling anxious or low, and remember that support is available. If you are in crisis, please contact your local emergency services or a mental health crisis line.

Prevention

It is difficult to completely avoid Aspergillus mold because it is widespread. However, you can reduce your exposure, especially if you have risk factors, and you can manage underlying conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for aspergillosis.

Screening programmes

Routine screening is not recommended for everyone. People with very weak immune systems may need regular checks, but this is decided by specialists.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic infection that slowly damages the lungs
• Invasive aspergillosis spreading to other organs such as the heart, brain, or kidneys
• Life-threatening bleeding from the lungs
• Chronic cough, weight loss, and fatigue

Long-term outlook

With early diagnosis and the right treatment, many people with aspergillosis improve or stabilise. Even severe forms can be treated successfully, especially when the immune system recovers. Your outlook depends on the type, the cause, and your overall health, so talk to your doctor about what it means for you.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.