Various parts of our body are necessary for every way. Just like the lungs, this part of the body is where the oxygen enters since t is part of the air that we breathe. The main function of the lungs is to process the gas exchange, which is called respiration or the breathing process. Without the lungs, you may perish since you will not be able to breathe. Thus, giving attention and a lot of care for the lungs is very important. There are some conditions that may hinder the normal functioning of the lungs. One of which is the histoplasmosis, this condition can be serious when you have a reduced immune function. Furthermore, it may also be so discomforting. Hence, having enough knowledge about the causes, symptoms, and of course, the treatments for histoplasmosis is beneficial. If you want to know these and more, give this article a read.
Histoplasmosis: What is this condition?
This is actually a fungal contamination that primarily affects the lungs. Furthermore, it is also triggered by the breathing of spores that belongs to Histoplasma capsulatum fungus. This particular type of fungus frequently nurtures in the soil, which is rich in bird feces or even guano. When the spores get disturbed and are sent inflight, they may with no trouble be inhaled and may settle into the lungs.
The fungus’ form actually is a tanned mycelium. Furthermore, the usual sites where individuals catch the fungal infection actually have already led to some other informal terminologies, just like spelunker’s lung or cave disease. In the event that the infections do really appear, it typically takes about 2 weeks of contact. The symptoms of it may actually resemble that of the flu or cold.
Many of the cases of histoplasmosis actually display no symptom, and they are easily removed by the immune system. People who are suffering from these immune system illnesses or those who are taking some immunosuppressant medications are highly vulnerable to the infection.
Moreover, histoplasmosis does not require any treatments. However, people who have weak immune systems may experience some serious problems. Not only that, the disease may also progress and may spread to some other parts of the body. Skin abrasions may also appear if histoplasmosis already spread all throughout the body.
Types of Histoplasmosis
Actually, there are two main types of histoplasmosis, the Acute and Chronic histoplasmosis.
Acute Histoplasmosis: this is a short-term type of the condition. Furthermore, it is typically mild, and is rarely leads to some complications.
Chronic Histoplasmosis: this is a long-term type; it occurs less often than the acute histoplasmosis. Furthermore, in some rare cases, this may spread all throughout the body. once the infection spread in the body, it could be life-threatening.
Symptoms of Histoplasmosis
Most of the patients who have histoplasmosis show no symptoms at all. However, the risk of the symptoms may increase as you breathe in larger amounts of spores. The symptoms usually appear approximately 10 days after getting exposed to the infection.
Some the most common symptoms of histoplasmosis include:
- Red bumps on the lower legs
- Joint pain
- Chest pain
- A dry cough
- Fever
In more severe cases, the symptoms may be:
- Coughing of blood
- Shortness of breath
- Excessive sweating
The widespread histoplasmosis may cause inflammation and irritation. Its symptoms may include:
- Headaches and stiff neck, from the swelling around the spinal cord and brain
- High fever
- Chest pain that is caused by s swelling around the heart
Causes of Histoplasmosis
The fungal spores may be released into the air when the contaminated droppings or soil gets disturbed. Breathing in the spores may result in the infection. The spores, which may cause the condition are more commonly found in places where bats or birds roosted, just like in:
- Old Barns
- Parks
- Chicken coops
- Caves
Furthermore, getting the infection once is not a guarantee that you will not get it again. This is since histoplasmosis can occur more than once. However, the first infection is generally more severe than the next ones. also, the condition is not a contagious condition as well, thus worrying is not necessary.
Treatments for Histoplasmosis
If you happen to have a mild infection, you most probably will not be needing any treatments for histoplasmosis. Your own doctor may suggest or instruct you to have enough rest and take some prescribed medicines for the symptoms.
If you are having some trouble with breathing or gets the infection for more than a month, various treatments for histoplasmosis is a must. It is at this moment that you will be given oral and antifungal medications. However, you may also need some IV treatments. the most common drugs or medications for you include:
- Itraconazole
- Amphotericin B
- Ketoconazole
If you are having severe infections, you may need to take your own medications through the vein. This is the way to strongly deliver the medicine in the body. With the proper care, attention, and medication, the condition will disappear.
