How can I differentiate between occupational asthma and other types of asthma in my patients?

To differentiate occupational asthma from other types of asthma in your patients, focus on the timing and relationship of symptoms to work exposure. Specifically, in adults with new-onset asthma, poorly controlled asthma, or recurrence of childhood asthma, ask whether symptoms are the same, better, or worse on days away from work, during holidays, weekends, or longer breaks from work. Document these responses carefully for review. This pattern of symptom variation related to work exposure is a key indicator of occupational asthma. If occupational asthma is suspected, refer the patient to an occupational asthma specialist for further assessment and management. This approach helps distinguish occupational asthma from other asthma types that are not linked to workplace exposures ¹.