Pneumoconiosis Silicosis - Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions - Pneumoconiosis Silicosis

What is silicosis?

Silicosis is a progressive lung disease in the grouping pneumoconiosis that is caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica dust. Very small silica particles embedded in the lungs cause inflammation and scarring of the alveoli, or tiny air sacs in the lungs. This leads to a buildup of scarring, fluid and fibrous tissue that impairs breathing and eventually leads to respiratory failure.

What are the different types of silicosis?

There are three different types of silicosis: chronic, accelerated and acute. They are categorized based on progression rates and the duration and intensity of silica dust exposure. Chronic silicosis develops slowly, sometimes developing 40 years after initial silica exposure. Accelerated silicosis is somewhat similar to chronic silicosis but results from higher exposure levels over a shorter period of time (five-15 years). Accelerated silicosis symptoms develop and progress faster than do chronic silicosis symptoms. Acute silicosis can develop very quickly after extremely high levels of silica dust exposure. It only takes between a few weeks and five years of silica exposure for acute silicosis to develop and progression is very rapid.

Who is at risk for silicosis?

There are many occupations that put workers at risk for crystalline silica dust exposure. Many forms of rock and sand contain silica, as it is a very common mineral. Sandblasters, miners, shipyard workers, rock drillers and cutters, construction workers, concrete workers, ceramic and pottery workers, tunnel workers, foundry workers, glass manufacturers, and agriculture employees may be exposed to silica dust.

How is silicosis diagnosed?

Lung function tests and chest X-rays are used to diagnose silicosis. Since the symptoms of silicosis are similar to other lung diseases, it is important to let your doctor know if you work in a high-risk occupation. This will help your doctor identify the disease. People in high-risk professions should have regular, periodic lung examinations.

Is there a cure for silicosis?

Silicosis is an incurable and irreversible lung disease. Though incurable, silicosis is completely preventable. If proper dust control techniques are employed, silica exposure can be kept within safe levels.

What kinds of treatments exist for silicosis?

Treatments for silicosis focus on slowing the progression of the disease. The first important step in treating the pneumoconiosis silicosis is to stop silica dust exposure as soon as possible. If the silicosis patient smokes, they should stop immediately. Continued exposure and smoking cause silicosis to progress faster. Close monitoring to prevent infections from a weakened immune system and drugs to ease breathing and coughing are also available for the comfort of the patient.

What should I do if I have developed silicosis from on-the-job exposure?

If you have been diagnosed with silicosis and are currently or have previously been, exposed to crystalline silica dust on the job, it is important to seek the advice of a silicosis attorney immediately. If you weren't supplied with proper safety equipment and, or trained in silica dust exposure safety methods, your employer or manufacturer of the safety equipment may be responsible. There are statutes of limitations on silicosis cases that prevent the filing of silicosis lawsuits after a certain time period after exposure. Please contact our firm today if you have developed silicosis. We can help.