It’s possible that you have work-related asthma. This happens when substances at your work (irritants or allergens) cause asthma or worsen asthma. Hundreds of substances found in workplaces have been proven to worsen asthma. Examples of people who are at higher risk for occupational asthma include health care workers, those who work with cleaners or solvents, workers in the chemical industry, construction workers, welders, auto body painters, those using isocyanate foams, and animal care workers.

Talk to your doctor or asthma specialist about your work-related asthma symptoms. Once the workplace triggers have been determined, your health care provider can help you find ways to reduce your exposures to these substances.