Allergy Update
by P.K. Raghuprasad, M.D.

Allergic Alveolitis

The more common name for alveolitis is "Farmer's Lung".  The disease results from a hypersensitivity to the dust and mold which often develop in wet hay.   As the tiny particles are inhaled, they work their way into the alveoli, the smallest air passages in the lungs.  Inflammation develops and the patient feels tired, short of breath, and has a dry cough and frequently, chills and fever.   Allergic alveolitis can also be caused by other organic dust, such a s that from sugar cane, maple bark, animal hair, bird feathers or droppings, and mushroom compost.   Acute attacks may require emergency treatment and possible hospitalization.   Recovery may take as much as six weeks and there may be some lasting lung damage.   A farmer may need to consider changing techniques, since mold occurs only when the products are not properly dried.