Living with occupational asthma? Know the health hazards

Occupational Asthma is one of the worst breath-related ailments that if not taken care of well in time, can trigger several complications and even prove to be fatal.
asthma

Occupational Asthma can trigger several complications if not treated in time.

New Delhi: Many professions expose you to ailments that become life-threatening. Over time, repeated breathing issues lead to occupational Asthma, a fatal condition that can be otherwise avoided with care.
Many people who work in the construction business, farmers, bakers, firefighters or in chemical labs and with metals and plastics are prone to inhaling toxic gases, dust, and fumes throughout the day. They are prone to have their airways blocked or irritated causing breathlessness and allergic immunological response. Over time, in many cases people develop asthma that causes tightness in the chest, wheezing, and repeated coughing.
Avoiding occupational triggers is the only way to manage the ailment. Otherwise heavy doses of antibiotics and sometimes inhalers are the only way to treat occupational asthma.
Symptoms of occupational asthma
One must take note of all the signs given below:
  1. Constant wheezing
  2. Dry cough
  3. Breathlessness
  4. Chest tightening
  5. Nasal congestion
  6. Irritation and watering of the eyes
How to lower risk of occupational asthma?
Doctors recommend occupational asthma can be lowered when you stay away from work for a while to help get off the workplace irritants. If you notice your symptoms get better when you off, they may be happening because of the triggers.
Also, there are several changes you can make at your workplace since it is not always possible to go on a leave. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has recommended the following:
  1. Ventilation: Employers should install appropriate ventilation in rooms where workers can breathe in fresh air and remove irritants and triggers of asthma.
  2. Health policies: There should be health policies at all business owners should subscribe their workers to protect them.
  3. Substitute hazardous materials: Companies should strive to find lower-risk alternatives to hazardous materials which is also good for the environment.
  4. Imparting training: Workplace training covering prevention techniques, policies and reporting problems should be imparted to the employees to protect their health.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
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