Guarantee Yourself Easier Breathing:

1
Guarantee Yourself Easier Breathing Choose the
Right Respiratory Protection for You
Kasey Lindsey, MUSN, Maryville University School
of Nursing St. Louis, MO
The Problem Grain Dust Inhalation Farmers
Lung Farmer's lung is an allergic reaction that
occurs when mold and dust gets past the defense
systems of the nose, mouth and throat. Normally,
the defenses inside the lungs will attack the
dust and remove it without damage.
Unfortunately for someone who's immune system is
more sensitive, an allergy will develop.
Consequently, repeated exposure will ultimately
lead to allergic reactions in which the immune
system works against the dust. Once you become
vulnerable to the allergy, repeated exposure
leads to the formation of scar tissue. This
destructs the walls of the alveoli sacs and
decreases area for air to be exchanged. Long
term effects are definite. With the first
exposure you may only experience a slight cough.
Symptoms following later exposures may
include Symptoms of Farmer's Lung Feeling of
hot and cold Fever Profuse sweating
Noticeable weakness A chronic cough or other
persistent cold/flu like symptoms
Breathlessness,wheezing or chest tightness A
general feeling of tiredness or depression Toxic
Organic Dust Syndrome (TODS) TODS is an allergic
reaction like Farmer's Lung. Severity of the
reaction depends on the amount of dust inhaled
and the individual's own immune response. This
condition affects anyone who is exposed, not just
those who are sensitive.
Symptoms of TODS Cough Fever Chills Body
Aches Fatigue Long Term Effects of These
Conditions Repeated exposure in both cases leads
to scar tissue formation and alveolar
destruction. This causes decreased lung function
similar to Emphysema. The Solution How Can You
Protect Yourself? If you are extremely sensitive,
the best prevention is to avoid the triggers
(dust and mold). For others, the use of masks and
respirators, when used properly offer the best
protection. Masks/Respirators Masks used for the
purpose of filtering dust and mold are called
Air-Purifying Respirators. There are two general
types Mechanical Filter Respirator Chemical
Cartridge Respirator Mechanical
Filters Disposable Uses Dust and Mold Fit
Good Fit Hard to Obtain Maintenance Low
(adjustable two strap models available) Breathing
Resistance High (models are available with an
exhalation valve) When to Discard When more
effort is needed to draw in air. This happens
because the filter has become clogged with
particles.
Half Mask Respirator Uses Dust and Mold Fit
Moderately Good Maintenance Moderate (due to
changing filters) Breathing Resistance
Moderate When to Discard These are reusable, but
the dust filters must be replaced when more
effort is needed to draw in air. Particulate
Respirator N95 respirator combines fit,
comfort, and protection better than any other
respirator. The N95 "dust/mist" respirator comes
in three sizes (small, medium, large). This
respirator's combination "boomerang" nose cushion
and formable nose band helps achieve a better
seal over the bridge of the nose, which is often
where respirators allow contaminants in or why
they cause glasses to fog. NIOSH approved to trap
95 of non-oil particulates. The 8214 has a
Cool Flow exhalation valve that makes breathing
easier and cooler while hot welding or torch
work. The 8214 have adjustable straps and
comfortable face seal. NIOSH approved.
Advising Faculty Mary Curtis, RN, Ph.D. Clinical
Instructor, Maryville University School of
Nursing Maryville University St. Louis, MO
Acknowledgments UMC Respiratory
Therapy Maryville University School of
Nursing University Outreach and Extension
Karen Funkenbusch, MA Clinical Mentor, Columbia,
MO College of Agriculture, Food and Natural
Resources University of Missouri - Columbia