Cave lung, also known as spelunker’s lung, is a disease that affects cave explorers and is caused by exposure to bat droppings in caves. The droppings release a fungus into the air that can be inhaled and cause an allergic reaction in the lungs when exploring caves for extended periods of time.
What causes cave lung?
Cave lung is caused by breathing in the spores of the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. This fungus grows in soils that contain large amounts of bat or bird droppings. When these droppings decompose, they release the spores into the air. In the enclosed, damp environment of a cave, the spores can be easily inhaled by spelunkers and cavers as they explore.
What are the symptoms of cave lung?
The main symptoms of cave lung include:
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Headache
- Muscle aches
The symptoms are similar to pneumonia and can develop between 5 days to 4 weeks after exposure. In severe cases, cave lung can cause permanent lung damage if not treated promptly.
How is cave lung diagnosed?
Cave lung is diagnosed through:
- Medical history – the doctor will ask about any recent cave exploring and potential exposure to bat droppings
- Physical exam – listening to the lungs for crackling sounds
- Chest X-ray – may show scarring and inflammation in the lungs
- CT scan – provides more detail views of the lungs
- Lab tests – samples of sputum or lung tissue can be tested for the fungus
- Blood tests – may show elevated white blood cell count indicating infection
How is cave lung treated?
Treatment for cave lung involves:
- Antifungal medications – such as itraconazole to kill the fungus
- Corticosteroids – to reduce lung inflammation
- Oxygen therapy – in severe cases low oxygen levels may require oxygen
- Avoiding caves – preventing re-exposure is important to reduce risk of recurrence
With prompt treatment, most cases of cave lung fully resolve within a few weeks. However, permanent lung damage can occur if the infection is not treated quickly.
How can you prevent cave lung?
To help prevent cave lung:
- Wear an N95 respirator mask when caving
- Avoid stirring up bat droppings
- Stay out of areas with heavy droppings
- Decontaminate gear after caving trips
- Avoid caves completely if you have a weakened immune system
Proper precautions can greatly reduce the risk of developing this lung infection when spelunking and caving.
Key Facts
- Caused by inhaling bat droppings fungus in caves
- Symptoms are similar to pneumonia – cough, fever, chest pain
- Diagnosed through medical history, lung imaging, and lab tests
- Treated with antifungals, steroids, and oxygen therapy
- Prevented by wearing respirator masks and avoiding bat droppings
Conclusion
Cave lung is a serious occupational disease for avid cave explorers. Breathing in fungal spores from bat droppings puts spelunkers at risk of developing pneumonia-like symptoms. While treatment is available, prevention through protective gear and avoidance of bat guano offers the best protection. Understanding the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of cave lung allows cavers to continue enjoying caves safely.