Byssinosis
Key points
- Byssinosis is an occupational disease of the lungs caused by inhalation of cotton dust or dusts from other vegetable fibers such as flax, hemp, or sisal (see also Occupational asthma).
- Inhalation of the dust produced by industrial processing of textiles can cause byssinosis.
- Your health care provider will take a detailed medical history, including many questions to try to relate your symptoms to specific exposures or times of exposure.
- The most important treatment is to remove the source of exposure to the offending agent.
Alternative names
Cotton worker's lung; Cotton bract disease
Definition
Byssinosis is an occupational disease of the lungs caused by inhalation of cotton dust or dusts from other vegetable fibers such as flax, hemp, or sisal (see also Occupational asthma).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Inhalation of the dust produced by industrial processing of textiles can cause byssinosis. An asthma-like condition results from exposure to dust in sensitive individuals.
Preventative measures in the U.S. have reduced the number of cases, but it remains common in developing countries. Smoking increases the risk for this disease. Repeated exposure to the offending substances may lead to chronic lung disease and shortness of breath or wheezing.
Symptoms
- history of exposure to dusts from textile manufacture
- symptoms worse at the beginning of the work week
- symptoms improve away from the workplace
- chest tightness
- cough
- wheezing
Signs and tests
Your health care provider will take a detailed medical history, including many questions to try to relate your symptoms to specific exposures or times of exposure. A physical exam, with special attention to the lungs is also done. Other tests include:
- chest X-ray
- pulmonary function tests (especially repeated throughout the work day or work week during exposure)
Treatment
The most important treatment is to remove the source of exposure to the offending agent. Reduction of dust levels within the factory by improving machinery or ventilation will help prevent byssinosis. Some people may have to change jobs to avoid further exposure.
Medications such as bronchodilators will usually improve symptoms. Corticosteroids may be prescribed in more severe cases.
Stopping smoking is very important for people with this condition. Respiratory treatments, including nebulizers and postural drainage, may be prescribed if the condition becomes chronic. Home oxygen therapy may also be needed if low blood oxygen levels are detected.
Physical exercise programs, breathing exercises, and patient education programs are often very helpful for people with a chronic lung disease.
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Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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