Occupational asthma
Alternate Names : Asthma - occupational exposure, Irritant-induced reactive airways disease
Treatment
Avoiding exposure to the substance that is causing your asthma is the best treatment. - The best option is to change jobs, but this may be difficult to do.
- Moving to a different location at the job where there is less exposure to the substance may help, but it does not seem to make a difference for many people. Over time, even a very small amount of the substance can trigger an asthma attack.
- Using a respiratory device to protect or reduce your exposure may help.
Asthma medicines (almost always inhalers) may help you manage your symptoms. Talk to your doctor about these medicines. - Asthma quick-relief drugs help relax the muscles of your airways. They are called bronchodilators.
- Asthma control drugs are taken every day to prevent symptoms.
Support Groups
See: Asthma and allergy - support group
Prognosis (Expectations)
Occupational asthma may continue to get worse if you continue to be exposed to the substance that is causing the problem, even if medicines improve your symptoms. In some instances, symptoms may continue even when the source of exposure is removed. In general, the outcome for people with asthma is good. However, symptoms may continue for years after workplace exposure has been eliminated.
Complications
- Negative impact on personal finances and career for people who need to change jobs
- Respiratory fatigue
- Side effects of asthma medications
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of asthma.
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