Occupational lung diseases are a group of lung diseases caused by or aggravated by repeated and long-term exposure to airborne irritants at one’s workplace. These include animal droppings, chemicals, dust particulates, fungal spores, and other air pollutants that have the potential to irritate the lungs.
Some common occupational diseases include:
While there is no cure for occupational lung diseases, being aware of the risk in your workplace and reducing exposure to lung irritants can go a long way towards protecting your health and safety.
Because there are several diseases that are classified as occupational lung diseases, there is a wide range of symptoms caused by occupational lung diseases. However, some of the most common ones include:
The sooner exposure to occupational hazards is reduced and the sooner you can receive a diagnosis of occupational lung disease, the better chance your care team has of minimising symptoms and maintaining a high quality of life. If you suspect you may have occupational lung disease, see a doctor right away.
Occupational lung diseases are caused by exposure to lung irritants in the workplace.
Risk factors for developing occupational lung diseases include working in farming, livestock, construction, mining, being an active duty member of the military, or working as a first responder.
Your healthcare provider will take a thorough medical history, ask for symptoms you are experiencing, and get a clear picture of any instances in which you may have been exposed to airborne irritants in the workplace. If they suspect that you may have occupational lung disease, they will perform imaging tests like an X-ray or computerised tomography of the lungs to confirm the diagnosis. They may also perform other tests, including:
Complications of occupational lung diseases include chronic lung issues like chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) and dying at a younger age.
Treatment for occupational lung diseases depends on age, overall health, the type of disease you have, disease prognosis, medical history, your treatment preference, and your doctor’s recommendations.
Prevention of occupational lung diseases is possible. Work with your employer to ensure that you have access to appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Attend environmental health and safety training and reduce your overall exposure to lung irritants like second-hand smoke and poor air quality. Ensure you’re up to date on vaccines that protect against respiratory illnesses like Covid-19 and influenza.