One-year occupational exposure to a cold environment alters lung function.

摘要: Numerous observations have shown that breathing cold air causes bronchospasm and increases respiratory tract secretions in asthmatic patients normal individuals. However, few studies been conducted on the effects of protracted daily exposures to a environment. In this 1-yr study, authors examined individuals who spent 6 hr day stores (+3 degrees C + 10 C) approximately 25% time at +3 C. The protocol included questionnaire about clinical symptoms, with measurements baseline pulmonary function airway responses carbachol nasal inhalation (-5 C). Eleven subjects were prior their first occupational exposure cold, again following mo 12 work Compared control group engaged same but did not stores, 11 worked environment experienced increased symptoms rhinitis, sore throat, cough. Physiological showed progressive decrease forced expiratory volume 1 sec increase value central resistance. Forced flow measured between 75% vital capacity had decreased mo, no further change mo. A enhancement bronchial reactivity was noted response vary. concluded yr elicits modest--but significant--airflow limitation, accompanied by hyperresponsiveness, beginning within exposure.