Copd or Occupational Asthma

Good afternoon,

I started a new job a few months ago. We manufacture Headliners for automobiles. The material that is used and cut is a polyurethane foam.

I have had severe attacks at work and suffered breathing and coughing problems since I started. I have had several chest x rays during my attacks that show hyperinflated lungs. My doctor says I have mild COPD. Our company was recently closed for eight days during the holidays and during that time, my cough was gone and I didn't suffer any breathing problems. We returned to work in January and within three hours, I was having what appeared to be a severe asthma attack. So bad that by the time I got home, I thought I might have to call an ambulance. I couldn't get any air. I haven't worked for two days now, and I am back to normal again.

My symptoms sound more like asthma flare ups, rather than COPD. I have no symptoms when away from work.

I have made an appointment with a pulmonologist for a PFT.

Also, I have been very active and healthy up until now. I also quit smoking five years ago.

Any advice or opinions would be helpful..

Thanks!