What is Histoplasmosis?

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An infection of the lungs, Histoplasmosis is caused by inhalation of the spores of a particular fungus. The fungus, native to central and eastern states in the U.S., is called Histoplasma capsulatum. It is a very common fungus, in those areas, as it grows in the soil and in the droppings of birds and bats.

For many individuals, the contraction of a histoplasmosis infection will not cause any symptoms. The individual may pass through it without ever knowing he or she had it.
Others are lucky as well, only suffering mild symptoms. The acute form of Histoplasmosis is like getting a mild flu, and it passes relatively quickly.

However, there are those individuals who are unfortunate enough to develop the chronic form of Histoplasmosis. With symptoms similar to tuberculosis, it can also spread throughout the body. Primarily, this only occurs in vulnerable individuals like young children, the elderly, and those with AIDS.

Histoplasmosis is also more common amongst those whose occupations are likely to expose them to the fungus. Some examples are farmers, bridge workers, pest control workers, spelunkers, roofers, heating and A/C workers, gardeners, construction workers, and chimney cleaners.

Information on this page is for reference and educational purposes only. For more information about histoplasmosis, talk to your doctor or primary care provider.

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Scott joined American Medical Sales and Rentals in 2008 as a Web Manager and Content Writer. He is a writer and designer. He is extensively trained on oxygen therapy products from leading manufacturers such as Inogen, Respironics, Chart, Invacare, ResMed and more.

Scott works closely with respiratory therapists and oxygen specialists to educate the community about oxygen therapy products, COPD, asthma and lung diseases. He writes weekly columns and is passionate about educating the community on oxygen therapy and respiratory issues.

About Scott Ridl:

Scott joined American Medical Sales and Rentals in 2008 as a Web Manager and Content Writer. He is a writer and designer. He is extensively trained on oxygen therapy products from leading manufacturers such as Inogen, Respironics, Chart, Invacare, ResMed and more. Scott works closely with respiratory therapists and oxygen specialists to educate the community about oxygen therapy products, COPD, asthma and lung diseases. He writes weekly columns and is passionate about educating the community on oxygen therapy and respiratory issues.

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