Occupational Lung Diseases
Occupational Lung Diseases
Occupational or work-related lung diseases are lung conditions that have been caused or made worse by long-term exposure to certain irritants in the workplace. Dust particles, chemicals, fungal spores, and certain animal droppings are examples of exposures that may increase your risk of developing occupational lung disease.
There is no cure for occupational lung diseases. Controlling your exposure to lung irritants and treatment can help slow the disease progression, lessen symptoms, and improve your quality of life. If you smoke, quit. Smoking can cause or worsen lung disease.
What are the warning signs of occupational lung disease?
Exposure to workplace irritants can impact many of the body systems including the lungs. Many of these symptoms may not appear until years after exposure.
- Frequent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Mucus or phlegm production
- Wheezing
- Chest pain
How is occupational lung disease diagnosed?
Due to your workplace location, responsibilities, and industry, you may be placed at a higher risk of developing lung disease. Examples of industries that may place you at a higher risk of developing a lung disease include mining, construction, farming, livestock, first responders, and the military.
Early detection is key.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about your warning signs, even if the symptoms seem mild.
- Share your complete medical and job-related history.
- Your healthcare professional will conduct a physical exam and may recommend lung function tests like spirometry, chest x-ray, or CT scan.
How can I reduce my risk?
There are a few steps you can take to reduce your risk of lung disease.
Work with your employer if you are still in the same position to ensure access to the appropriate protective equipment. Make sure you are using it correctly and whenever it is indicated.
Attend repeated safety trainings on how to minimize your exposure to harmful substances in the workplace.
Reduce your exposure to lung irritants outside of work.
Don’t smoke or vape and avoid secondhand smoke and aerosol whenever possible.
Test your home for high levels of radon (the second leading cause of lung cancer), and if it has high levels, be sure to mitigate it. Stay inside on poor air quality days whenever possible.