Helping you breathe safely where you work
Occupational asthma treatment in Fresno & Merced
Occupational asthma is asthma caused or worsened by exposure to substances at work. Sierra Allergy Asthma and Sinus Center team helps identify your triggers and provide personalized care so you can breathe easier and stay healthy on the job.
Common symptoms of work-related asthma
- Coughing or wheezing during or after work
- Chest tightness or difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath, especially with activity
- Symptoms that improve on weekends or vacation
- Fatigue or difficulty sleeping due to breathing issues
Who is at risk of occupational asthma?
You may be at higher risk if you work in industries with exposure to:
- Dusts and particles (flour, wood, grain, cotton, or latex)
- Fumes and chemicals (cleaning products, isocyanates, ammonia, solvents)
- Gases or vapors (from plastics, paint, adhesives, or industrial equipment)
- Mold or animal dander (in farming, labs, or veterinary clinics)
- Smoke or combustion products (firefighters, welders, mechanics)
Even low-level, repeated exposures can lead to symptoms over time.
How we identify occupational asthma
Sierra Allergy Asthma and Sinus Center takes a detailed and supportive approach to diagnosing occupational asthma:
Symptom & Medical History Review
We begin by understanding your symptoms, when they occur, and how they relate to your work routine.
Lung Function Testing
Tests like spirometry or peak flow monitoring help us measure how well your lungs are working.
Bronchodilator Response Check
We test how your breathing improves after using medication, which helps confirm an asthma diagnosis.
Allergy Testing
If allergens like mold, latex, or animal dander are involved, we perform allergy testing to pinpoint them.
Workplace Exposure Assessment
We carefully review your job environment and tasks to identify potential asthma triggers.
Accurate diagnosis helps you get the right treatment and protects your long-term health.
Treatment options for occupational asthma
Medications
- Rescue inhalers (like albuterol) for immediate relief
- Daily controller medications to reduce inflammation
- Other asthma therapies for more severe or persistent symptoms
Exposure Reduction
- Improving workplace ventilation or protective gear
- Adjusting tasks or workstations to avoid triggers
- Employer collaboration (when possible) to reduce exposure risks
Asthma Action Plans
We create easy-to-follow plans for managing symptoms at work and knowing when to seek emergency help.
Why early treatment of occupational asthma matters
Occupational asthma can become serious if left untreated. It may cause long-lasting damage to your lungs, even after you stop being exposed to triggers at work. But with early testing and proper care, most people can stay healthy and continue working without constant symptoms. Sierra Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center is here to support you every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment and long-term management.
Why choose Sierra Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center?
- Certified allergist with occupational asthma expertise
- Advanced lung and allergy testing onsite
- Clear documentation for workplace discussions or workers’ comp
- Personalized care that fits your job and lifestyle
- Convenient locations in Fresno & Merced
Ready to breathe easier
at work?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep working if I have occupational asthma?
Can occupational asthma go away?
Symptoms may improve or resolve after avoiding the trigger, but not always. Early treatment is key.
Is this covered by workers’ compensation?
If your condition is job-related, it may be. We can provide documentation to support your claim.
What jobs most often cause asthma?
Cleaning, manufacturing, agriculture, baking, construction, healthcare, and lab work are among the top industries linked to occupational asthma.
How can I tell if my job is causing my asthma?
If your symptoms improve on weekends or days off and get worse during or after work, your job may be a trigger. A detailed medical evaluation can confirm it.