If you work in medicine, you are no stranger to hard work and long days. While you do not mind putting your nose to the grindstone every time you go to work, you expect your workplace to be reasonably safe. Unfortunately, if you have chronic asthma, working in the medical profession may put your lung health in jeopardy.
According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, asthma is a potentially life-threatening medical condition that causes airways to constrict and mucus production to become excessive. Unfortunately, the working conditions you experience every day can exacerbate your asthma symptoms.
Known asthma triggers
If you are like most asthma sufferers, you undoubtedly know what triggers your flare-ups. Your triggers may include smoke, pollen and fragrances. You may not realize, though, that stress and latex are common causes of asthma attacks. Stress and latex, of course, are commonplace in the medical profession.
Your treatment options
Having a serious case of asthma can be frustrating, as your breathing never may be entirely normal. Nevertheless, it probably benefits you to work with a pulmonologist to find a long-term treatment plan. If your doctor recommends doing so, you also should carry a rescue inhaler with you when you are at work.
Even if you mostly can control your asthma symptoms, working in the medical field may make them worsen with little or no notice. Moreover, having a health care job may cause your condition to deteriorate over time.
Ultimately, if you have work-caused asthma, you may be eligible for meaningful workers’ compensation benefits to help you pay for the care you need to thrive.