Occupational hazards leading to bronchitis
Certain occupations can expose you to excessive dust, smoke or chemicals that may eventually lead to breathing issues. Bronchitis is one of the breathing conditions that can be triggered by environmental hazards. It is an inflammation of the lungs’ breathing tubes that leads to a chronic cough.
Here is what you need to know about industrial bronchitis, including symptoms, treatments and when to seek help.
Understanding industrial bronchitis
Industrial bronchitis occurs when the lungs' airways become swollen or inflamed due to exposure to fumes, smoke, dust, chemicals or other respiratory irritants. The inflammation can be temporary or acute, lasting only a few weeks, or chronic, lasting months or several years.
Bronchitis can be more severe if you have a personal or family history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, another type of respiratory disease or are an older adult.
Common occupational hazards leading to bronchitis
Certain substances are known to be occupational hazards that may trigger industrial bronchitis. If you work with these substances regularly, you might be at increased risk of developing bronchitis.
Exposure to chemical irritants
Chemicals, particularly fumes from solvents, paint, adhesives or industrial cleaning agents, can cause lung irritation, which can lead to bronchitis. These chemicals release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that irritate the respiratory system. They should only be used with proper ventilation or protective equipment.
Dust and particulate matter
Dust and particulate matter can get stuck in the lungs and irritate the respiratory system. Dust can come from various substances, such as flax, talc, cotton or minerals. The risk of bronchitis or other breathing issues is greater for those exposed to these dusts over long periods, particularly with inadequate ventilation.
Smoke and combustion byproducts
Smoke inhalation and other combustion by-products can irritate the lungs and cause acute or chronic bronchitis. Combustion releases many harmful substances, including fine particulate matter, carbon monoxide and toxic chemicals, which can cause inflammation of the airways.
Symptoms of bronchitis from occupational exposure
The main bronchitis symptom is a productive cough that brings up thick mucus. Other bronchitis symptoms may include:
- Chills
- Fever
- Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness in the chest
- Wheezing
- Chronic bronchitis may put you at risk of developing other more severe conditions. These include:
- Asthma
- Chest pain
- Emphysema
- Fatigue
- Lung cancer
- Malnutrition
- Pneumonia
- Respiratory failure
- Sleep disturbances
Preventive measures for reducing bronchitis risk in the workplace
How can you prevent bronchitis? You can take many preventive measures in the workplace to help limit your exposure to harmful lung irritants and lower your risk of occupational bronchitis.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
If you work in an industry that requires regular exposure to dust, fumes, chemicals or smoke, using PPE is essential for staying safe. This may include respiratory protection such as N-95 masks, other breathing safety equipment, gloves or protective clothing. Your employer should provide this type of equipment.
Workplace safety practices
Your workplace should also implement safety measures to keep you and your lungs safe. This may include:
- Developing standard operating procedures around hazardous materials
- Developing a medical surveillance program
- Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations
- Isolation of hazardous substances
- Promoting a tobacco-free workplace
- Proper ventilation of the workplace
- Providing PPE, such as masks or gloves
- Provide proper training for employees handling hazardous materials
- Regular risk assessments
- Regular testing of air quality
Regular health screenings
If hazardous materials are involved, your workplace should regularly screen for employees who might be at risk. They can also offer medical evaluations for employees who need additional screening.
However, it is important to take matters into your own hands to stay current on medical screenings, vaccines and healthy lifestyle routines.
When to seek medical attention for bronchitis symptoms
If you have difficulty breathing due to bronchitis, seek immediate medical attention. If there are other symptoms related to occupational hazards that are concerning, our providers help provide the guidance you need.
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