Pneumoconiosis is the inflammation of the lung caused by breathing industrial dusts. Inhalation of industrial dust continuously for many years causes patches of irritation to form in one or both lungs. The result is the formation of scar tissue making the lungs less flexible and porous. Pneumoconiosis is not contagious, and usually takes at least 10 years of exposure and sometimes up to 25 years to show signs of the disease. Not everyone exposed to the dusts actually become ill and it usually affects men over age 40.
Causes of Pneumoconiosis
Pneumoconiosis is caused by repeated exposure to small particles of industrial dusts that enter the lungs. Common causes include coal dust, which causes black-lung disease (coal miner’s pneumoconiosis, anthracosis). Beryllium and its compounds (once used in manufacturing fluorescent lamp bulbs, ceramics and chemicals) cause berylliosis. Talc, iron, cotton, synthetic fiber and aluminum dusts cause a rare form of pneumoconiosis. Asbestos and silica cause asbestosis and silicosis, respectively.
Signs and Symptoms of Pneumoconiosis
Pneumoconiosis may not produce any symptoms for years. However, as the lungs become more damaged, symptoms will inevitably develop. These include shortness of breath. cough, and general ill feeling. The shortness of breath usually begins only with severe exertion. As the disease progresses, shortness of breath may be present all of the time. Restless sleep occurs. Loss of appetite and loss of weight may develop. Chest discomfort, cough and hoarseness can occur. They cough initially is not associated with sputum, but may eventually be associated with coughing up blood. Due to poor oxygenation of the blood by the damaged lungs, the nails and lips may appear pale or bluish.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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