Is there a link between the level of Aspergillus in the environment and episodes of poor health in ABPA?
Everyone is continually exposed to Aspergillus spores as they are ubiquitous in the environment. In addition, often ABPA sufferers are colonised with Aspergillus and react to the Aspergillus growing in their lung as well as spores they breathe in. For these reasons it is logical to assume the particular environmental level of Aspergillus spores will not predict the health of individuls with ABPA. However, no scientific study has been undertaken to investigate this and there is anecdotal evidence to suggest that exposure to high levels of spores can exacerbate symptoms. It may be sensible for ABPA sufferers to avoid high levels of spores found in dust, soil and compost. HEPA filters are used in hospitals to reduce spore concentrations in the atmosphere, again there is no scientific evidence that these could help individuals with ABPA, but it could be worth trying.
