When the disease strikes a fancier of avian culture, it is called "pigeon breeder's lung," "bird breeder's lung," or "bird fancier's lung," just to name a few. I will try to limit the discussion to the avian variety of this disease process since that is the one closest to my heart. I was diagosed with this condition in August 1999. Fortunately I have a doctor that understands my sincere interest in keeping my birds and we are working together to make that a reality.
One is ACUTE and the other is CHRONIC.
In the acute phase, symptoms develop 4-6 hours after exposure to the avian protein. Most common are shortness of breath, cough, chills, fevers, headache, muscle aches and a general "not feeling good" feeling. These symptoms may last up to 12 hours, but usually subside spontaneously once away from the allergens. However, these symtoms can occur with increasing severity with each repeated exposure. The actue phase is often mistaken, initially, for the "flu" or a "cold.
In the chronic phase, the symptoms are becoming more severe, more frequent and usually require medical intervention for relief. The shortness of breath, fatigue, low-grade fever, chronic non-productive cough and often weight loss progress to a "permanent" condition. At this time, definite changes are noted within the lungs and these changes are irreversible. It is referred to as pulmonary fibrosis. This conditon is very serious and in extreme cases may be fatal.
Any or all of the following test may be ordered so that your doctor can confirm the presence of the condition.
Chest X-ray
Pulmonary function tests
Complete Blood Count
Antibody panels
Bronchoscopy with or without biopsy
As abnormal findings occur, your doctor may request further, more intense, diagnostic studies. About 1 in 10,000 people have some form of hypersensitivity pneumonitis so the medical profession is familiar with this disease process. It is, however, important, that you have your medical record adequately marked stating that you are a bird fancier so this medical condition is not overlooked.
Initially, steriod medication may be given. Other oral and inhalation medications are also available to ease the symptoms. But, remember, the damage to the lungs is permanent and progressive with repeated exposures.
For those that have continued exposure to the identified proteins,commercial respirators can reduce the amount of the targeted agent inhaled.
The best form of treatment is obviously going to be avoidance of the causative agent and continued medical follow-up.
CLEANING: Do not allow seed dust or hulls, pellet dust ,or droppings to accumulate in the cage or play area. Remember that it is the particles you CANNOT see that are the most dangerous. The best way to remove the dust is with the vacuum cleaner; however, if you do not have adequate filtration on the cleaner, you may just be blowing the particles back into the air. A simple filter over the vacuum exhaust portal is beneficial. Prior to cleaning, spray with a fine mist to help settle the seed/pellet dust and the feather powder/dust. Even the feather sheaths contain the suspect proteins.
HANDLING: Be alert to dust, dander, feather sheath particles when handling your birds. This material is easily transferred from your hands and clothing to your respiratory tract. The more you cuddle and "fluff" or "preen" your bird, the more you are subjecting yourself to the proteins. When you are finished cuddling and playing with your companion, wash your hands and arms, if possible change your clothing. It is also beneficial to have a specific smock or other "over garment" to wear just when handling your birds. Men, be particular aware of sideburns, beards and moustaches. They are traps, conveniently close to your nose, for feather dust.
COMMON SENSE: Remember, when working or playing with you birds to use common sense. If you notice your nose starting to run, your eyes starting to itch and water, a little difficulty taking a deep breathe -- get out of the room. These are the early symptoms of an allergic reaction. If you feel you have developed any type of allergic response to your feathered companions, notify you doctor. Like any disease process, early detection and treatment is the key to a long happy life with your birds.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis DOES NOT have to be fatal; it can be controlled with proper technique and treatment.
Will it get worse -- yes it can if you ignore what your body is trying to tell you.
Can your family get it -- yes, but not from you, it is not contagious. They will need to have the allergic response to the avian proteins.
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