Signs and Symptoms of Malt Worker's Lung Disease

Malt worker's lung disease is an allergic reaction to moldy barley, specifically to airborne spores from the Aspergillus clavatus fungus. The symptoms of malt worker's lung disease appear as hypersensitivity pneumonitis, also known as HP, which is an inflammation of the lungs caused by continued inhalation of the fungus spores. Farmers and other field workers are most susceptible to this particular disease.

Short Term Symptoms

• Fever, chills and common cold symptoms are the first signs of malt worker's lung disease. Fatigue and chest tightening are also short term symptoms of exposure to the Aspergillus clavatus fungus and typically subside within a couple of days.

Long Term Symptoms

• Recurring episodes of lung problems, such as pneumonia, are prominent in those suffering from the long term effects of malt worker's lung disease. In addition, a persistent cough and weight loss can occur years after exposure to the fungus.

Long Term Effects of Continuous Exposure

• If exposure continues, serious side effects may linger and even develop into interstitial fibrosis. This occurs when the lung tissues are scarred due to long term damage caused by antigens (the body's defense mechanism against the fungus). The blood is deprived of oxygen as a result of interstitial fibrosis, which results in chronic shortness of breath.