Silicosis
Signs andsymptoms
Source: NHS
In this topic (5)
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 if you're no longer exposed.
In most cases, exposure for at least 10-20 years is required to cause the condition, although in a few cases it can develop after 5-10 years ofexposure or, in rare cases, after only a few months of very heavy exposure.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of silicosis are:
- a persistent Cough
- persistent shortness of breath
- weakness and tiredness
If the condition continues to get worse, these symptoms may become more severe. Some people may eventually find simple activities such as walking or climbing stairs very difficult and may be largely confined to their house or bed.
The condition can ultimately be fatal if the lungs stop working properly (respiratory failure) or serious complications develop (see below), but this is rare in the UK.
Further problems
Silicosis can also increaseyour risk of other serious and potentially life-threatening conditions, including:
- tuberculosis (TB) and other chest infections
- pulmonary hypertension
- heart failure
- arthritis
- kidney disease
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- lung cancer
The links abovewill take you to more information on these conditions, including their treatment.
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
