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Do Petroset Fumes Cause COPD?

Posted on Fri, 21 Jul 2017

Question: About nine years ago I was exposed to large amounts of dust from a solidification agent called petroset. About three years ago I was diagnosed with COPD and my shortness of breath keeps getting worse, so my question is...could my problem stem from my exposure to petroset?

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Single episode of such exposure is less likely to cause COPD.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
COPD is chronic obstructive Pulmonary disease.
It is mostly caused by continuous exposure of offending agent like cigarette smoke, chemical fumes, biogas etc.
Single episode (large amount of dust) is less likely to cause COPD.
So I don't think it was the cause for your COPD.
Please let me know
1. Do you smoke?
Please reply me answer of above asked question, so that I can guide you better. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Drkaushal85 (10 hours later)

I did smoke for 40+ years but quit when I had an Ischemic stroke in 2015. My exposure to the petroset dust was not a single event, we were using this stuff for a few months on a daily basis for 8-10 hours a day. I am just trying to find out if this could be a factor in my diagnosis?

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (14 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, this can be the precipitating factor.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your follow up question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
Since you were smoker, dust exposure can be the precipitating factor.
So yes, petroset dust can be a cause for your COPD.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy