Certain occupations, because of the nature of their location, work, and environment, are more at risk for occupational lung diseases than others. Contrary to a popular misconception, coal miners are not the only ones at risk for occupational lung diseases. For instance, working in a car garage or textile factory can expose a person to hazardous chemicals, dusts, and fibers that may lead to a lifetime of lung problems if not properly diagnosed and treated. Most occupational lung diseases are caused by repeated, long-term exposure, but even a severe, single exposure to a hazardous agent can damage the lungs. Occupational lung diseases are preventable.
Smoking can increase both the severity of an occupational lung disease and the risk of lung cancer.
The following are the most common symptoms of lung diseases, regardless of the cause. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. The symptoms of occupational lung diseases may resemble other medical conditions or problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis. Occupational lung diseases, like other lung diseases, usually require an initial chest x-ray for preliminary diagnosis.