Occupational Lung Disease

Occupational lung diseases encompass a wide range of conditions caused by exposure to irritants in the workplace.
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Occupational lung diseases—also known as work-related lung diseases—are lung problems caused by exposure to certain particles—such as chemicals, dust, or fibers—in your work environment. 

When inhaled, these particles can cause long-lasting lung and breathing issues, even long after the exposure has ended.  

University of Iowa Health Care occupational medicine providers have the expertise and experience to treat your occupational lung disease and provide potential improvement in your symptoms. Our providers will work to find a treatment plan that works for you.

Causes of occupational lung disease

Working certain types of jobs increases your risk of developing an occupational lung disease. These include jobs in factories, mining, construction, agriculture, and places that require you to work closely with smoke or exhaust. These diseases tend to be caused by repeated exposure over time, although a single exposure, if severe enough, can cause lung or breathing issues. 

Types of occupational lung disease

The type of occupational lung disease you may have is often related to what industry you worked in. These include:

  • Asbestosis. Exposure to high levels of asbestos fibers over time can cause asbestosis, which is characterized by scarring of the lungs and shortness of breath.  
  • Byssinosis or brown lung disease. Common in textile industries, byssinosis is caused by inhaling cotton dust or dusts from other vegetable fibers such as flax, hemp, or sisal while at work.
  • Coal worker's pneumoconiosis. Also known as black lung disease, this condition results from breathing in dust from coal, graphite, or man-made carbon over a long time.
  • Hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This condition refers to inflammation of the lungs due to breathing in dust, fungus, bacteria, chemicals, molds, or other substances.
  • Silicosis. Silica is a common, naturally occurring compound that is found in most rock beds and is a main constituent of sand. Silicosis is a lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust.
  • Work-related asthma. If you’ve been exposed to certain dusts, gases, fumes, vapors, or other particles, you may develop asthma symptoms such as chronic coughing and wheezing. 

Occupational lung disease symptoms

Symptoms may vary based on your own health and the nature of your occupational lung disease, but the most common symptoms reported include: 

  • Coughing  
  • Wheezing
  • Chest pain or tightness  
  • Shortness of breath  
  • Abnormal breathing patterns
  • Dry or sore throat 

If you suspect you might have an occupational lung disease, contact your provider.

How occupational lung disease is diagnosed

Your evaluation will begin with a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and a discussion about your current working environment, including what kinds of materials you may be exposed to at work.  

If necessary, your provider may order one or more of the following tests to help determine the type and severity of your condition: 

  • Chest X-ray. This gives your provider a better look at the organs, tissues, and bones for any signs of disease.  
  • Pulmonary function tests. These tests measure how well your lungs can move air in and out.  
  • Bronchoscopy. A bronchoscope is a device used to see the inside of the airways and lungs to better diagnose disease. If necessary, they may also take a biopsy (a small piece of tissue, cells, or fluid) during this time to be tested.  
  • Arterial blood gas test. This test measures the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood. It also checks the acidity of your blood.
  • Computed Tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan is an imaging procedure that uses special X-ray equipment to create detailed pictures, or scans, of areas inside the body. 

Occupational lung disease treatments

While there is no cure for most occupational lung diseases and no way to reverse lung scarring that has already occurred, there are treatments that can help relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life. While they differ based on the type of lung disease and your overall health, they aim to:

  • Reduce further exposure
  • Prevent further lung scarring
  • Manage symptoms
  • Help you make lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation

If your lung disease is severe enough, you may need a lung transplant. Upon diagnosis, your provider will discuss all treatment options to determine what makes most sense for you.  

A team approach to occupational lung disease

If your occupational lung disease coincides with other health conditions, our occupational medicine providers will collaborate with a range of specialists to provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. 

Need help finding an occupational lung disease specialist?

When you call, we’ll help you find a provider who meets your needs.
Call 1-319-356-8133

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