Fungal infection in lungs

[Jason1952]

I've had a fungal infection in my lungs for a while now, symptoms include thick, hardened flem which varies in colour between dark brown and yellow. Several courses of antibiotics have all failed to shift it. Does anybody have any ideas on how to get rid of this? Any non-antibiotic remedies would be much appreciated. Thanks.

[peege]

Hi, I think you need to call the helpline ASAP 0300 222 5800, they'll be better at explaining and offeringadvice on how to get treated properly. To my knowledge fungi need to be treated with anti-fungals not antibiotics.

Years ago I was investigated for fungal Aspergillosis, I was told that it can only be managed, not eradicated entirely (unlike most bacterial infections which are treated with antibiotics).

You can look up information on Aspergillus /Aspergillosis on the NHS website

[peege in reply to peege]

PS look to the right at 'Related Posts' ⁹to the right or scroll down on a phone I think) there's one titled Anti fungal medication. The first reply is very informative very informative

[Caspiana]

Did they try any of these anti-fungals? fluconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole and isavuconazole? Fungal infection in lungs is notoriously difficult to eradicate. You should be on an ongoing course of treatment for it and conventional antibiotics is not going to help. I have been on Itraconazole for almost five years as a preventative. I second Peege's to call the helpline. Also, what has your doctor said? More information would be helpful.

[Biker88]

fungal infections in the lungs are notoriously difficult to diagnose, you need a combination of X-ray, CT scan, broncoscopy, biopsy and specialist blood tests. Once the type of fungal infection is confirmed the treatment is anti fungal meds and steroids depending on the type of infection. Sputum tests on their own is not sufficient for a diagnosis, for more information there are two very good websites Aspergillosis.org and Aspergillosistrust.org.

[Nula2]

Hi Jason, I have recurring Aspergillosis (along side Bronchiectasis) and have never been given antibiotics for it but it's treated with Itraconazole, an antifungal, which has reduced the size. I still have some there which my specialist monitors regularly to make sure it hasn't grown too much.

[Izb1]

Agree with all replies to your post, you need some treatment for the condition you have. In the meantime ask your gp for carbocistine which will help thin out the mucus, you could also try menthol crystals (or Vicks) put into a bowl and pour hot water over , with a towel over your head breathe in, this helps you to breathe. Hope you find the help you need x

[tbeth]

I have aspergillosis and bronchiectasis. You need to be treated by a pulmonary specialist and prescribed an antifungal. They will also give you other medications to help you cough up what is in your lungs . Good Luck.

[Jason1952]

Thanks for all the advice, lots to think about.