Farmer S Lung

Farmer's Lung: causes, symptoms and treatment

Farmer's Lung is an occupational lung disease that can develop in agricultural workers who come into contact with fungal spores that begin to grow in poorly dried hay, straw or cereals. These spores quickly become moldy and, if inhaled, can cause an allergic reaction in workers who frequently work indoors with these materials.

This disease is a type of allergic alveolitis, which can also occur as a result of the body's increased sensitivity to many other allergens. In the case of Farmer's lung, an acute reversible form can develop within a few hours after contact with the allergen, and a chronic form, manifested by the gradual development of irreversible shortness of breath, occurs after several acute attacks, but can also appear independently.

Symptoms of Farmer's lung include cough, shortness of breath, fatigue and chest discomfort. In some cases, symptoms associated with an allergic reaction may also occur, such as a runny nose, itchy eyes and skin, and watery eyes.

Avoiding contact with the allergen is the main principle of treating Farmer S Lung. However, in most cases, agricultural workers can continue to work in their current jobs as long as they take appropriate precautions. This may include the use of protective masks and regular ventilation of areas where fungal materials are stored.

When treating acute Farmer's lung, doctors may prescribe short courses of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and symptoms of the disease. In the chronic form, treatment may be longer and include the prevention of allergic reactions and improving indoor air quality.

Thus, Farmer's lung is a serious disease that can occur in agricultural workers who are frequently in contact with fungal spores. Seeking medical attention early and taking appropriate precautions can help prevent the development of this disease and keep workers healthy.