Popcorn Lung Symptoms

Some popcorn factory workers have developed symptoms of lung problems due to the use a chemical named diacetyl. Workers that have been repeatedly exposed to diacetyl, which is used to give microwave popcorn a buttery taste, develop Bronchiolitis Obliterans. This incurable condition is so prevalent among these former workers that it is now known as Popcorn Lung.

Popcorn Lung Symptoms

Diacetyl exposure can irritate several parts of the body, leading some factory workers to seek medical treatment for skin and eye burns. When diacetyl is inhaled it causes inflammation in the lungs. Popcorn Lung results when repeated exposure causes the formation of scar tissue and blockage.

Signs and symptoms of Popcorn Lung include a persistent dry cough and wheezing. The reduced lung capacity causes a severe shortness of breath after exertion. The signs and symptoms of popcorn lung mimic the symptoms of lung problems like asthma and bronchitis, making proper diagnosis difficult.

Popcorn Lung Diagnosis and Treatment

There are several tests that a doctor may perform based on symptoms of Popcorn Lung, which may partially detect the disease and aid in diagnosis. These include:

Chest x-rays
Computer aided x-rays called CT scans
Lung volume tests
Lung diffusing tests

However, the only way to definitively diagnose popcorn lung is through the removal of lung tissue sections in a biopsy.

Popcorn lung has no cure, but early detection and treatment is a key factor in being able to alleviate symptoms. Left untreated it is fatal. Treatment options include the prescription of corticosteroids, and immunosuppressive drugs which can ease inflammation. If the disease is too advanced for drug treatment to help, a lung transplant is needed.

Contact a Popcorn Lung Lawyer

In response to wide-spread symptoms of lung problems among popcorn factory workers, there have been numerous studies, all of which link diacetyl to Popcorn Lung. A 2010 OSHA alert recommends that employers use safety measures to avoid exposing employees to the potentially deadly effects of butter flavorings containing diacetyl.

However, this warning came too late to help the thousands of employees who have already been exposed. The effects of Popcorn Lung are irreversible, and often the only treatment available is a lung transplant.

If you are a popcorn factory worker experiencing signs and symptoms of this disease, you should immediately contact one of our attorneys. Contact a Popcorn Lung lawyer today.

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Popcorn Lung Symptoms