What Is Wood Asthma?

Wood asthma is a condition that is cause by the dust that results from cutting or sawing dry wood. According to ca.gov, wood asthma is often an occupational asthma. Whether you already have asthma or not, there are certain steps you can take to minimize triggers while on the job.

Types

• Asthma can be triggered or caused by an allergic reaction to the chemicals in oak, cedar, redwood, ash, and teak trees, according to ca.gov.

Risks

• Wood asthma occurs most often in mill workers, cabinet makers, and other people who work around wood dust.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of wood asthma may include breathing difficulties, chest tightness, and wheezing.

Prevention/Solution

• If you regularly work with wood dust, you can help prevent the onset of wood asthma by wearing a mask, washing yourself of dust after work, and by working in a well-ventilated environment. Asthmatics should always have a rescue inhaler on hand as well. If you are allergic to these trees, consider preventative allergy drugs.

Warning

• Seek emergency medical attention if you suspect an asthma attack as a result of wood dust. An asthma attack is associated with severe chest pain, rapid breathing, paleness, severe shortness of breath, and a lack of response to rescue medication.