Baker’s asthma: symptoms, triggers and next steps

Symptoms may begin during mixing, weighing, sweeping, or cleaning and may ease away from the bakery. Wheezing, cough, chest tightness, and shortness of breath are common clues; [Wheezing](/symptoms/wheezing/) and [Chest Tightness](/symptoms/chest-tightness/) can have other causes too. Flour dust, enzymes, grains, moulds, and additives may be involved. Some workers also develop nasal symptoms alongside [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/). A pattern linked to particular tasks is useful information for assessment.

Arrange a medical assessment and describe your job, materials, protective equipment, shift pattern, and when symptoms occur. A clinician may compare breathing tests at work and away from work; [Spirometry](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/spirometry/) can be part of this evaluation. Reduce airborne dust by following workplace controls, using approved ventilation, and avoiding dry sweeping where safer procedures are available. Do not change or share inhalers. Keep a symptom diary and follow the treatment plan for [Asthma](/conditions/asthma/).

Get urgent help if breathing becomes difficult at rest, you cannot speak comfortably, your lips look blue or grey, or your reliever is not helping as directed. A rapidly worsening [Cough](/symptoms/cough/) or tight chest also needs prompt assessment. A nebuliser may be used by clinicians in some acute situations; it is not a substitute for emergency care.

Ask which workplace exposures are most suspicious, whether you need breathing tests during work periods, how to use your inhaler, and what workplace adjustments could reduce dust.