Can The Lungs Be Affected Of By The Excreta Of Pigeons

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Can the pigeon residue alone lead to a kind of infection which would badly affect the functioning of the lungs? Our expert Dr. M.Deepa Selvi throws some light on the topic.

Bird Fancier’s Lung is a type of hypersensitivity pneumonitis, an immunologically mediated lung disease due to repetitive exposure of air-borne avian antigen, is an unusual but important occupational and recreational cause of severe and debilitating breathlessness.This was first described in 1965 and is known as one of the most common causes of hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

The evolution of lung damage and irreversible disease process in hypersensitivity pneumonitis is characterized by chronic and persistent antigen exposure. The degree and length of antigenic exposure is directly related to disease progression. Continuous antigen exposure increases the risk for fibrotic development. The only effective intervention that can halt this chronic evolution is early recognition and control of the causative antigen or exposure.

Clinicians must take a detailed occupational and recreational history in any patient presenting with unexplained dyspnea. Bird Fancier’s lung is one of the common and preventable causes of hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Antigen avoidance and removal is the most important facet in the management.Medical therapy in the form of systemic corticosteroids may be useful but it continues to progress despite avoidance of antigen exposure. Acute or subacute forms may resolve with treatment, however, chronic cases may progress to pulmonary fibrosis where lung transplantation may be required.

Though the pigeons are the symbols and embodiment of love and affection, let us keep ourselves safe and secure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pigeons can transmit diseases such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis through their droppings. These infections usually affect the lungs and can cause flu-like or respiratory symptoms, especially in people with weak immune systems or those exposed to contaminated environments frequently.

Yes, touching pigeons or their droppings can expose you to harmful fungi or bacteria. While casual contact rarely causes illness, poor hygiene afterward increases risk. Always wash your hands thoroughly and avoid touching your face before cleaning up or handling anything contaminated by pigeons.

Symptoms may include fever, cough, chest pain, fatigue, and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, it can mimic pneumonia or lead to systemic infections. People exposed to large amounts of droppings or with weak immunity are more likely to experience severe respiratory symptoms or chronic illness.

Early signs of histoplasmosis include fever, chills, dry cough, fatigue, and chest discomfort. It develops after inhaling fungal spores from bird or bat droppings. Symptoms may appear within 3–17 days after exposure and can resemble the flu in mild cases or pneumonia in severe ones.

The fastest diagnosis is through antigen testing of blood or urine, which detects fungal proteins quickly. In some cases, doctors may use chest X-rays, CT scans, or fungal cultures to confirm infection. Early detection is crucial to start antifungal treatment and prevent complications.