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Aspergillosis is usually caused by breathing in tiny bits of mould.
The mould is found in lots of places, including:
You cannot catch aspergillosis from someone else or from animals.
Aspergillosis is rare in healthy people. Most people who breathe in the mould do not get ill.
You're usually only at risk of aspergillosis if you have:
Symptoms of aspergillosis include:
If you already have a lung condition, your symptoms may get worse.
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
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:
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.
| Common types | Treatment |
|---|---|
|
Common types
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis or ABPA (an allergy to aspergillus mould) |
Treatment |
|
Common types
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis or CPA (a long-term lung infection) |
Treatment
Long-term (possibly lifelong) treatment with antifungal tablets |
|
Common types
Aspergilloma (a ball of mould in the lungs, often linked to CPA) |
Treatment
Surgery to remove the ball if it's causing symptoms, often after antifungal treatment |
|
Common types
Invasive pulmonary aspergillus or IPA (a life-threatening infection in people with a weakened immune system) |
Treatment
Antifungal medicine given directly into a vein in hospital |
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
