Hi,
I've been working in a chemical laboratory for a couple of years. I have noticed that every time I get a cold, during and for some time after that I can start coughing uncontrollably when exposed to organic solvents. It is nothing life threatening, more of an inconvenience really. I work with a lot of organic solvents like xylene, methyl isobutyl ketone, and isopropyl alcohol. Whenever I happen to inhale some of the solvent vapours I get the urge to cough. This usually only happens after I've had the flu or cold.
It feels kind of like convulsions in the chest. I am worried because I've heard that this is a symptom of an asthma attack. I've never been diagnosed with asthma. None of my parents or relatives have either. I am wondering if this should be a cause for concern.
Thank you.