A study has identified a species “most commonly found” on pillows. The problem with these fungal spores is that they can trigger asthma in children and cause bleeding in the lungs. Here’s what it is and what could help.
Research from the University of Manchester found that species commonly occurring in bedding is “most likely to cause disease”.
The species in question is called Aspergillus fumigatus.
And when it comes to its favourite hub, it can be found in pillows, the research explains.
This fungal spore can lead to different health problems.
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The research reports that it has become the leading infectious cause of death in leukaemia and bone marrow transplant patients.
It continued: “Constant exposure to fungus in bed could be problematic.
“It can also get into the lung cavities created by tuberculosis which affects a third of the world’s population, causing general ill health and bleeding in the lungs, as well as causing a range of plant and animal diseases.”
The research team looked at both feather and synthetic pillows while studying the bedding for spores.
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When it comes to asthma, the researchers shared that the fungi can also worsen this condition in adults.
In case you’re not familiar, asthma is a common lung condition that occasionally causes breathing difficulties, the NHS explains.
Even though it’s a serious condition, the good news is that it can be kept under control with interventions.
Another study found that the common fungi can even trigger asthma in children.
Apart from pillows, Aspergillus fumigatus is also in the air, cellars, household plant pots, compost, computers and spices.
The researchers concluded that immunocompromised patients are at the greatest risk from this type of fungi.
While hospital pillows usually have plastic covers which should reduce the risk of problems, your own pillows may be old and fungus-infected.
One solution to this fungi problem could be investing in hypoallergenic pillows, the study suggests.
