Histoplasmosis is caused by Histoplasma, a fungus that lives in the soil, particularly where there's a large amount of bird or bat poop. The infection ranges from mild to life-threatening.
Can bird droppings cause lung problems?
Histoplasmosis is an infection caused by breathing in spores of a fungus often found in bird and bat droppings. The infection is most commonly spread when these spores are inhaled after taking to the air, such as during demolition or cleanup projects.
Can you get sick from inhaling bird poop?
Psittacosis (also known as ornithosis) is a disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci, carried by birds. Humans most commonly catch the disease by inhaling dust containing feathers, secretions and droppings from infected birds. Older people generally experience more severe illness.
Is bird poop harmful to humans?
Bird droppings are a breeding ground for disease-causing parasites. Not only can these organisms attack the substrata of a building, they can spread disease to humans. One health hazard that is a concern when dealing with bird guano is Histoplasmosis.
What are the symptoms of bird fanciers lung?
Initial symptoms of BFL include shortness of breath (dyspnea), and dry cough. These may be worse after sudden exertion or when exposed to temperature change, which can resemble asthma, hyperventilation syndrome or pulmonary embolism. Chest pain (such as a tight chest), chills, crackly chest, and fever may also occur.
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