Definition

Silicosis is a lung disease. It is caused by breathing dust that contains crystalline silica. In acute silicosis, the disease occurs after just weeks or months of exposure to very high levels of the silica. This is a serious condition. Contact your doctor immediately if you think you may have it.

Causes

Crystalline silica can be found in:

• Concrete
• Masonry
• Sandstone
• Rock
• Paint
• Other abrasives
• Soil
• Mortar
• Plaster
• Shingles

When these materials are cut, broken, crushed, drilled, ground, or blasted, silica dust may be produced. When silica dust gets into the air you breathe, it may become trapped in your lungs. The dust builds up damages your lungs. More dust will create more damage. This will make it hard for you to breathe.

Risk Factors

Working in the following occupations increases your chance of acute silicosis:

• Sandblasting (the most common cause of acute silicosis)
• Construction
• Wrecking and demolition
• Abrasive blasting
• Masonry
• Concrete finishing
• Drywall finishing
• Rock drilling
• Stone milling or cutting
• Mining
• Sand and gravel screening
• Rock crushing (for road base)
• Agriculture
• Ceramics, clay, pottery
• Glass manufacturing
• Vitreous enameling of china plumbing fixtures
• Manufacturing of soaps and detergents
• Shipyards, railroads

Symptoms

Symptoms may appear within a few weeks to two years after exposure:

• Shortness of breath
• Severe cough
• Weakness
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Night sweats
• Chest pains
• Respiratory failure

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. You will also be asked about your work history. A physical exam will be done. Tests may include the following:

• Chest x-ray —to look for abnormalities in your lungs
• Pulmonary function tests —to look for problems with your lung function
• Tests for tuberculosis (TB)—since people with silicosis are susceptible to developing TB

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for silicosis. If you have acute silicosis, you will be advised to avoid additional exposure. Your doctor may also treat other conditions associated with acute silicosis. These may include heart disease and TB. You will also be advised to stop smoking.

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of silicosis:

• Avoid working in dust whenever possible.
• Use water sprays and ventilation when working in confined structures.
• If applicable, wear your respirator designed for protection against crystalline silica. You cannot have a beard or mustache if you use a tight-fitting respiratory. Your employer may provide the mask.
• Take advantage of health screenings offered by your employer.
• Practice good personal hygiene in the workplace.
• Do not eat, drink, or use tobacco near dusty areas.
• After exposure to dust, wash your hands before eating, drinking, or smoking.
• Park your car where it will not become contaminated.
• Shower and change before leaving work.

Occupational Safety & Health Administration https://www.osha.gov

The Lung Association http://www.lung.ca

Silicosis: Learn the facts! National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health website. Available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2004-108
Updated June 6, 2014. Accessed June 30, 2015.