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Published on: February 3, 2014
Vocal cord dysfunction related to water-damaged buildings
Kristin J Cummings1, Jordan N Fink, Monica Vasudev
1Division of Respiratory Disease Studies, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WVa.
Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) can develop in individuals exposed to damp, water-damaged buildings. This condition may present with asthma-like symptoms and warrants consideration in occupational health evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Medicine
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) involves paradoxical vocal cord adduction, causing airway obstruction.
- Damp indoor environments are linked to respiratory issues like asthma, but VCD association is less understood.
Observation:
- A health hazard evaluation examined respiratory illnesses in occupants of two water-damaged office buildings.
- Interviews, medical record reviews, and building assessments were conducted.
Findings:
- Two VCD cases were linked to occupancy in water-damaged buildings, presenting with cough, dyspnea, and hoarseness.
- Diagnostic tests confirmed VCD, while coworkers experienced sinusitis and asthma.
- Building evaluations revealed water damage and mold growth.
Implications:
- Vocal cord dysfunction is a potential health outcome of exposure to water-damaged buildings.
- Consider VCD in patients with asthma-like symptoms and a history of exposure to damp indoor environments.
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