How pigeon exposure can cause severe lung diseases, all you need to know

A 42-year-old woman from Gujarat underwent a lung transplant for a disease caused by the exposure due to pigeon droppings, as per a report by India Today. Moreover, the hospital where she received treatment directed her to maintain a clean environment. 

Pigeons tend to increase their population in areas where they are regulary fed. Their droppings are laced with fungi, which causes respiratory illness and lung infections when inhaled for longer periods. 

As per an India Today report, doctors at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital researched and found that pigeon droppings can lead to Hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a form of long-term interstitial lung disease (ILD) that can lead to permanent scarring of lung tissues. 

Various studies have shown that pigeon droppings contain cryptococcus, which can cause Cryptococcosis -- a form of fungal infections. 

While some people with high exposure to pigeons can display no symptoms at all, those with pre-existing respiratory conditions are at higher risks. In order to shield yourselves from pigeon menace, go for anti-bird nets for your balcony and keep your surroundings clean.