Occupational asthma is caused by inhaling fumes, gases, dust or other potentially harmful substances while “on the job.” Irritants in high doses that induce occupational asthma include hydrochloric acid, sulfur dioxide or ammonia, which is found in the petroleum or chemical industries. If you are exposed to any of these substances at high concentrations, you may begin wheezing and experiencing other asthma symptoms immediately after exposure. Workers who already have asthma or some other respiratory disorder may also experience an increase in their symptoms during exposure to these irritants. Often, asthma symptoms are worse during days or nights you work, improve when you have time off and start again when you go back to work. People with a family history of allergies are more likely to develop occupational asthma, particularly to some substances such as flour, animals and latex. Allergies play a role in many cases of occupational asthma. This type of asthma generally develops only after months or years of exposure to a work-related substance.
The proteins found in some fruits and vegetables are very similar to those found in particular pollen. These proteins can confuse the immune system in people with food or outdoor allergies. The result is called oral allergy syndrome (OAS). For instance, if you are allergic to birch tree pollen, a primary airborne allergen responsible for symptoms in the springtime, you may have reactions triggered by peach, apple, pear, kiwi, plum, coriander, fennel, parsley, celery, cherry and carrot. The most frequent reaction involves itchiness or swelling of the mouth, face, lip, tongue and throat. Symptoms usually appear immediately after eating raw fruits or vegetables, although the reaction can occur more than an hour later. Rarely, OAS can cause severe throat swelling or anaphylaxis in a person who is highly allergic.
You might benefit from immunotherapy to help build up a tolerance to your offending triggers. Sublingual Immunotherapy (also known as Allergy Tablets) or Liquid Drops Formulations are offered to some patients who suffer from allergies to short ragweed and some grass pollen. The tablets or drops will increase tolerance to the pollen and reduce symptoms over time. For continued effectiveness, treatment may be needed for three years or longer.
