Scientists are still working on explaining the link between asthma and fungal disease.
There is still a lot of research to be done on this subject. But let’s look at some of the most important facts you need to know about fungal infections in asthmatics.
• Asthma Will Increase Your Risk of Getting a Fungal Infection
Statistics show that fungal infections affect nearly one in two adults with asthma. Thus, this chronic illness puts you at risk of infections.
• This Can Be Extremely Dangerous
Anyone can get a fungal disease. After all, fungi pollute our air and our food. But in many cases, these infections are harmless.
However, asthma makes you more sensitive to fungi. If there is mucus in your lungs, fungi can multiply there. Thus, you are more prone to recurrences as well as infections.
Additionally, this puts you at a higher risk of permanent lung damage. You are also likelier to suffer from other complications.
• Fungal Infections in Asthmatics Usually Come from the Aspergillus Fungus
People with asthma are affected by many different types of fungi. The Aspergillus is particularly common. Furthermore, research shows that this fungus could make your asthma more severe.
• Steroid Treatment Can Have an Effect Too
If you have asthma, steroid pills and inhalers can help. However, scientists have discovered a new potential risk.
They studied a group of asthmatics. People who were using steroid treatments were ten times likelier to have a fungal infection.
But this discovery doesn’t mean you should stop taking asthma medication. Instead, doctors need to work on improving treatments. Better antifungal medication for asthmatics could be a good first step.
