suspected when being in the workplace is associated with symptoms such as wheezing, coughing and chest tightness. Other symptoms may include runny nose, watery eyes or throat irritation.”
How to prevent occupational asthma
So what should you do if asthma symptoms arise at work?
First, talk with your physician, Dr. John Raimo, chair of medicine at Long Island Jewish Forest Hills, in New York City says.
Next, try to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms.
“It can help to keep a log of their symptoms detailing where they were and what they were doing at the time,” Raimo shares. “People should specifically look for times of improvement in symptoms during days off or on vacation. Since the time to develop symptoms after workplace exposure can vary greatly, occupational asthma should be considered in all patients with adult-onset asthma or in any patient that notes clear improvement during days off.”
READ: 5 tips for staying healthy in the workplace
Finally, talk things over with your boss.
“Often changes can be made by employers to remove or limit exposures to [asthma] triggers,” Raimo says.
McCormack agrees, noting that “workers are entitled to accommodations from their employers.”
Changes that can be made include removing the source of exposure, such as eliminating mold and remediating sources of moisture that contribute to mold; changing to less irritating substances; and using masks or personal protective equipment.
“Changing assignments or location of the workplace may be a solution in some cases,” McCormack says.