Symptoms of Illness Due to Mold

Most molds are not dangerous to humans, but molds containing aspergillus may cause illness when their spores are inhaled into the lungs. About 150 different types of mold contain aspergillus and have the potential to make individuals sick, according to the Mayo Clinic. The most common places to find mold are where grains are stored, areas with piles of compost, and construction sites. Those most at risk for developing mold-related illnesses include anyone with lung disease, asthma and people who have a vulnerable immune system.

Types of Mold Illness

• Some people may have a mild allergic reaction to molds containing aspergillus and other may develop lung infections. In some people, the mold may grow in the lungs and cause complications. Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis is a serious condition that occurs when the blood vessels and other organs also become infected by the disease.

Allergic Reaction

• Many people have allergic reactions after inhaling molds containing aspergillosis. You may develop a fever, cough up mucus and wheeze. You may feel ill, and people with asthma may experience increased asthma-related symptoms.

Aspergilloma

• People with lung conditions, such as tuberculosis or emphysema may have empty cavities in their lungs where mold can attach and grow into a fungus ball. Overtime this overgrowth of mold can cause symptoms such as chest pain, breathing difficulties and weight loss. Also, the individual may cough up blood.

Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis

• Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis is the most dangerous condition associated with aspergillosis mold. It strikes when the infection enters the blood stream and the travels all over the body. Symptoms of this condition include fever with chills, headaches, chest pain, joint pain, vision impairment, presence of blood in urine, difficulty breathing, internal lung bleeding and a bloody cough. Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis may result in other conditions, such as sinusitis and meningitis.

Treatment

• Mild reactions to aspergillosis do not require treatment. Corticosteroids are often prescribed to people who have cystic fibrosis or asthma, to keep those conditions from worsening. People who have invasive pulmonary aspergillosis will be given oral anti-fungal medications. People who have Aspergilloma fungus ball may require surgery to remove the mass.