BYSSINOSIS

Symptoms usually appear during the beginning of the workweek and typically improve by the end of the week.

Symptoms of byssinosis are similar to asthma and include:

• tightness in the chest
• Wheezing
• coughing

For severe cases, flu-like symptoms may arise such as:

• a fever
• muscle and joint pain
• shivering
• tiredness
• a dry cough

The symptoms usually go away upon removal from dust exposure. However, lung function can be permanently impaired if exposure is ongoing.

DIAGNOSIS

• Physician may do/request:
  • History & Physical Exam
• Other additional tests such as:
  • Chest x-ray
  • CT scan of lungs
  • Pulmonary Function tests

RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS

• Main treatment is avoiding exposure to harmful dust.
• Bronchodilators: for relief of mild to moderate symptom.
• Inhaled corticosteroids: for more severe cases to reduce lung inflammation.
• Supplemental oxygen therapy.
• Nebulizer: for chronic disease.
• Breathing exercises and physical activity can also help improve lung health and symptoms.