Industrial bronchitis is an inflammation of the large airways of the lungs in people who work around dusts, fumes, smoke, or other substances.

Exposure to dusts, fumes, strong acids, and other airborne chemicals causes this type of bronchitis. Smoking may be a contributing factor. A risk factor is occupational exposure to dusts such as asbestos, talc, silica, cotton, flax, and coal.

• Shortness of breath
• Increased cough that brings up mucus (sputum)
• Wheezing

The health care provider will listen to the lungs using a stethoscope. Wheezing sounds may be heard.

Tests include:

• Pulmonary function tests
• Chest x-ray

The objective of treatment is to avoid the substance that is causing the irritation.

Improved ventilation of the workplace or wearing masks to filter out bad air particles may help. Some cases of industrial bronchitis go away without treatment. Other times, a person may need inhaled anti-inflammatory medications.

If you are at risk or have experienced this problem and you smoke, stop smoking.

Supportive measures include rest, increased fluid intake, and breathing humidified air to aid in the removal of secretions from the airways.

The probable outcome is good as long as exposure to the irritant can be eliminated. Chronic disability from industrial bronchitis is rare.

The complications vary. Occasionally, industrial bronchitis leads to permanent lung problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, destruction of small airways (bronchiolitis obliterans), or lung scarring (pulmonary fibrosis).

Call your health care provider if you are regularly exposed to dusts, fumes, strong acids, or other chemicals that can affect the lungs and symptoms of bronchitis develop.

Dust control in industrial settings (face masks, protective clothing, treatment of textiles) is essential. Stop smoking if you are at risk. Early screening by a physician is advisable for those exposed to chemicals that can cause this condition.