U.S. workers experiencing symptoms of allergies or asthma in the workplace might actually be allergic to work. The American Academy of Allergies, Asthma & Immunology says up to 15 percent of adult asthma cases in the United States have job-related factors, accounting for approximately 24.5 million missed work days annually.
Occupational asthma is generally defined as a lung disorder caused by inhaling fumes, gases, dust or other potentially harmful substances while on the job.
“A personal history or family history of allergies can make a person more likely to develop occupational asthma,” said Dr. Michael C. Zacharisen, chair of the AAAAI’s occupational diseases committee. “However, symptoms can develop for the first time in someone who has no history of allergies or asthma if exposed to conditions that trigger it.”
Symptoms of occupational asthma include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, difficulty exercising, cough, runny nose, nasal congestion and eye irritation.