Silicosis
How can my GP help?
Source: NHS
In this topic (5)
See your GP if you think there's apossibility you could have silicosis.
Your GP may suspecttheconditionafter asking about your symptoms and work history, and listening to your lungs with a stethoscope. They'll want to know about any periods when you may have been exposed to silica and whether you were issued with any safety equipment, such as a face mask, when you were working.
If silicosis is suspected, you may be referred to a specialist for further tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests can include:
- a chest X-ray to detect abnormalities in the structure of your lungs
- a computerised tomography (CT) scan of your chest, to produce more detailed images of your lungs
- lung function testing (spirometry), which involves breathing into a machine called a spirometer to assess how well your lungs are working
You may also be asked to have a test for TB,as you're more likely to get TB if you have silicosis.
Articles for Silicosis
How can my GP help?
See your GP if you think there's apossibility you could have silicosis. Your GP may suspecttheconditionafter asking about your symptoms and work history, and listening to your lungs with a stethoscop
Introduction
Silicosis is a long-term lung disease caused by inhaling large amounts of crystalline silica dust, usually over many years.
Preventingsilicosis
Silicosis can beprevented by avoiding prolonged exposure to silica dust. In the UK, all workplaces must now comply with The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 , which sets a w
Signs andsymptoms
The symptoms of silicosis usually take many years to develop and you may not notice any problems until after you've stopped working with silica dust. The symptomscan also continue to get worse, even i
Treatingsilicosis
There's no cure for silicosis, as the lung damage cannot be reversed. Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. The conditionmay continue to get worse, leading to further lung da
