What is occupational asthma?
Occupational asthma is asthma caused by or worsened by exposure to
substances in the workplace. These substances may cause asthma in one of 3 ways: an allergic
reaction, an irritant reaction, or a reaction in which chemicals that occur
naturally in the body build up in the lung, resulting in asthma. For example,
health care workers can develop an allergy to latex gloves by breathing in the
powdered proteins from the inner lining of the gloves. Workers in the chemical
industry who are exposed to substances like ammonia can develop asthma due to an
irritant effect, not an allergic reaction.
There are numerous substances used in various industries that can cause
occupational asthma:
- Chemical exposure from working with adhesives, shellac and lacquer,
plastics, epoxy resins, carpeting, foam and rubber, insulation, dyes
(textile workers), enzymes in detergents
- Exposure to proteins in animal hair and dander
- Exposure to grains, green coffee beans, and papain
- Cotton, flax, and hemp dust, commonly found in the textile industry
- Metals such as platinum, chromium, nickel sulfate, and soldering fumes
How do I know if my asthma could be work-related?
Generally, if symptoms are worse on days that you work, improve when you are
at home for any length of time (weekends, vacations) and then reoccur when you
return to work, occupational asthma should be considered.
What are the signs and symptoms of occupational asthma?
Symptoms include general signs of asthma such as cough, wheeze, chest
tightness, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulty. Eye irritation, nasal
congestion, and/or runny nose may also be present. As stated previously, this can
be allergy-related or an irritant reaction from exposure to triggers in the workplace.
If you think you have occupational asthma, ask your doctor about a referral
to a specialist, most likely an allergist. The specialist will perform a
detailed exam including your medical history and current problems. A
treatment plan will be developed, including medications to control the asthma and
trigger avoidance.
How do I prevent asthma attacks if I have occupational asthma?
Reducing exposure to the occupational trigger is the most important step
that can be taken. Appropriate medical management is also important.
However, even with appropriate medications, continued exposure may make the asthma more difficult
to control.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a government agency, has created guidelines that determine acceptable levels of exposure to substances that may cause asthma. Employers are required to follow these rules. However, if exposure is unavoidable in a particular job, most employers are
willing to help the employee find a more suitable workplace. Once the cause of your asthma has been determined, discuss with your health care provider how best to approach your employer and what precautions need to be taken.