Farmer's lung overview

Farmer’s lung is an allergy related disease usually caused by breathing in the dust from moldy hay. However, dust from any moldy crop – straw, corn, silage, grain, or even tobacco – can also cause Farmer’s Lung. Other potential sources of dust particles include, grain handling, feed handling and processing, and livestock confinement systems.

The disease causes shortness of breath and a feeling of general illness, either in a sudden attack or as a slow, progressive disease. When people with Farmer’s Lung can avoid breathing in dust from moldy crops or feed, they seldom have further problems. On the other hand, lengthy exposure can cause permanent lung damage, physical disability, or even death.

Usually, people with Farmer’s Lung do not associate their health problem with exposure to moldy hay. Instead, they go to their doctor complaining of breathing problems. It is important to recognize the danger of working with moldy crops and to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of Farmer’s Lung. This enables people with symptoms to get medical help before it becomes a serious illness.