Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Occupational asthma is the most common form of work-related lung disease in many countries. When a person gets asthma as an adult, exposure at work is a likely cause. This type of asthma happens when a person is exposed to certain substances in the workplace. Examples are wood dust, plastics, and certain chemicals. Breathing in these substances can irritate your lungs or cause them to swell and get inflamed. If you already have asthma, being exposed to these things on the job can make your asthma worse. Treatment involves reducing your exposure to substances that trigger symptoms and taking medicines. Occupational asthma happens when a person breathes in certain substances in the workplace. There are some things that may cause occupational asthma and certain jobs in which people might be exposed to them. These include: People who have occupational asthma usually have symptoms during the workweek. They may cough or wheeze. Or their chest may feel tight. These may develop hours after they leave the workplace. Symptoms generally get better during weekends and vacations. If you have any of these symptoms, let your doctor know about them as soon as you can. The earlier you let your doctor know, the better the chances are to find out the cause of your symptoms. To diagnose occupational asthma, your doctor will ask you about what irritants or allergens you've been exposed to in the workplace. A test, called a specific inhalation challenge, will also be done. During this test, you're exposed to a small amount of a possible workplace irritant or allergen. Your lung function is then measured to find out whether the substance is the cause of symptoms. Occupational asthma is treated by: You may need to change your job if your symptoms don't get better even when you avoid possible triggers and take medicines. Talk with your doctor or asthma specialist before you change your job. Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com. © 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.Topic Contents
Occupational Asthma
Condition Basics
What is occupational asthma?
What causes it?
What are the symptoms?
How is it diagnosed?
How is occupational asthma treated?
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Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review BoardOccupational Asthma
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.