Occupational Asthma is just one of the conditions we provide medical reports for. This condition is caused by breathing in chemical fumes, gases, dust or other substances on the job. It can occur after exposure to a substance an individual is sensitive to causes an allergic or immunological response. Exposure to an irritating toxic substance is also one of the causes.

What is Occupational Asthma?

Occupational Asthma is an allergic reaction that can occur when an individual is exposed to substances in the workplace. These substances – flour and wood dust, for example – are called ‘respiratory sensitisers’ or asthmagens. After exposure, they can cause a change in people’s airways known as the ‘hypersensitive state’.

Not everyone who becomes sensitised develops asthma, however, once the lungs become hypersensitive, further exposure to the substance may trigger an attack.

Symptoms of Asthma

Wheezing, coughing and chest tightness are all symptoms of asthma. It can even cause severe shortness of breath and in many cases, it can stop an individual from doing the simplest tasks like carrying shopping bags or walking up stairs. As a result, some sufferers are unable to work again.

Professions most at risk

The highest rates of Occupational Asthma usually occur in these professions:

• Baker
• Vehicle spray painter
• Solderer
• Woodworker
• Healthcare worker
• Laboratory animal worker
• Agriculture worker
• Engineering worker
• Welder

To reduce the risk of Occupational Asthma, employers must adhere to COSHH regulations, preventing and controlling exposure to hazardous substances.

Treatment for Occupational Asthma

Medications such as inhalers and modifiers can be taken to reduce the symptoms of Occupational Asthma. Alongside this, reducing exposure to the triggers at work is one of the most important steps an individual can take to reduce the risk of an asthma attack and the symptoms of Occupational Asthma.

How MLA can help with your client’s claim

For almost 30 years, MLA has been the UK’s undisputed industry-leading specialists in Industrial Disease Medical Reporting. When making a claim, our dedicated Case Managers will be your sole point of contact throughout, ensuring every case is handled with the detailed care and attention it deserves.

When you instruct us to provide a medical report, a Respiratory Physician will examine your client. Our expert will consider the results of lung function tests and medical history to determine whether the asthma was caused, exacerbated or accelerated as a result of workplace exposure.

Get in touch today to learn more about our Industrial Disease services.