Lung Mold Exposure: Understanding Treatment Options & Aspergillosis

Typically, treatment for mold spores in the lungs requires a wait-and-see approach because the condition disappears on its own. However, if it doesn't go away you can undergo treatment.

Significance

• Aspergillosis--an infection, growth, or allergic response due to
  the Aspergillus fungus--occurs in individuals with weaken immune systems who inhale mold spores in their lungs.

Types

• A mild case of aspergillosis is an allergic reaction. A serious case of mold spores in the lung is known as invasive aspergillosis.

Anti-asthma Medication

• To treat allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, your doctor will prescribe anti-asthma drugs, such as corticosteroids. Oral corticosteroids, given in high doses at first, will open your airways and allow you to cough out the mold spores.

Antifungal Medication

• For invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, or mold that has invaded you lungs and spread to your other organs, you will receive antifungal medication for several weeks. These medications, such as amphotericin B and voriconazole, will eliminate the mold spores in your lungs and the rest of your body.

Surgery

• If you do wait and the worst-case scenario occurs--bleeding in your lungs--surgery is an option. Your doctor will surgically remove the mold spores or fungus balls from your lungs.