Pigeon droppings could secretly harm your lungs, here’s what doctors want you to know

How pigeon poop affects lungs: Fine dust from pigeon droppings and feathers can trigger hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a serious lung condition that slowly scars the lungs and makes breathing harder over time (Image: Canva)

Do you find pigeons cooing on window ledges or flocking in parks and feel they are harmless? You may not realise these birds can trigger serious lung problems, especially with frequent exposure to their droppings or feathers. Doctors now warn about rising cases of lung diseases linked to pigeons, which often go unnoticed until they’ve caused lasting damage.

"Every year, more and more Indians fall ill due to repeated pigeon exposure,” says Dr Ravindra Sanglikar, Consultant Pulmonology, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, Mumbai. “Fine dust from pigeon droppings and feathers can trigger hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a serious lung condition that slowly scars the lungs and makes breathing harder over time," he adds.

Symptoms of lung scarring

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“Signs such as cough, breathlessness, chest discomfort, or extreme tiredness are often mistaken for asthma or allergies. If left untreated, this can progress to permanent lung damage and even lead to respiratory failure,” Dr Sanglikar says. Sadly, many people remain unaware of the risks and unknowingly worsen their exposure through common cleaning habits like dry sweeping, which releases harmful particles into the air.

Agrees Dr Gunjan Chanchalani, Director of Critical Care Medicine at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central. She adds that even healthy people aren’t completely immune. “For some, even short-term exposure may cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, or breathlessness. If contact continues for a longer duration, chronic respiratory illnesses may set in, causing long-term lung damage,” she explains.

People with lowered immunity or existing lung conditions are especially at risk. Dr Chanchalani advises anyone with recurring respiratory symptoms, unexplained fatigue, or reduced ability to exercise to mention pigeon exposure to their doctor.

Both experts stress the need for greater awareness around this under-recognised risk, and simple protective measures can go a long way in preventing serious damage.

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6 smart ways to protect yourself from pigeon-related health risks:

Understand hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Dr Sanglikar says that repeated exposure to pigeons can trigger hypersensitivity pneumonitis, also known as bird fancier’s lung. “This causes immune reactions in the lungs, leading to inflammation, breathlessness, and potentially lung fibrosis,” he shares.

Symptoms such as a persistent dry cough or extreme tiredness are early warning signs and should never be ignored.

Be aware of fungal infections

“Pigeon droppings can also harbour fungi that cause serious infections like histoplasmosis or cryptococcosis,” says Dr Chanchalani. People with weakened immunity are most vulnerable. “Such infections can become severe and even life-threatening if untreated,” she warns. Always avoid unnecessary contact with pigeon droppings if your immune system is compromised.

“Never handle pigeon droppings or nests with bare hands,” advises Dr Sanglikar. “Gloves and masks are essential for cleaning areas where pigeons gather,” He also recommends washing hands thoroughly after any cleaning to prevent respiratory exposure.

"Clean pigeon areas carefully," Dr Chanchalani stresses. “Dry sweeping stirs up dust that’s hazardous to your lungs.” She suggests spraying water on droppings before cleaning to prevent inhaling airborne particles, alongside using gloves and a well-fitted mask.

Prevention starts at home. Says Dr Sanglikar, “Seal off access points where pigeons might nest—such as window ledges, attics, or balconies, with bird spikes, mesh screens, or nets to keep them from settling near your living spaces.”

"If you notice breathlessness, ongoing fatigue, or frequent coughing, seek medical advice quickly,” informs Dr Chanchalani. She strongly encourages patients to mention pigeon exposure during consultations, as this helps doctors diagnose and treat lung conditions early, avoiding permanent damage.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.