Pneumoconiosis
Pneumoconiosis (plural, pneumoconioses)
Literally translated to mean "dusty lungs," it can be any one of several lung diseases caused by prolonged exposure to airborne contaminants (both organic and inorganic) such as silica, coal, and asbestos in the work environment.
Prolonged exposure to airborne contaminants will lead to the development of macules (spots), nodules (lumps), and other abnormal growths in the lung tissue. Over time this degenerates the functions of the body’s immune system resulting in sickness, disease, and in many cases death. Smoking or being in the presence of Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) will complicate the negative effects.
Symptoms of Pneumoconiosis include:
- Weakness or Chronic Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing or wheezing
- Breathing complications
- Accelerated production of mucus (phlegm)
- Accelerated heart rate due to lack of oxygen
Which can lead to diseases such as:
- Cancer
- Anthracosis
- Tuberculosis
- Emphysema
- Heart disease
- Black lung disease
- Silicosis (typically found in mining)
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
- Byssinosis (Brown lung disease)
Medications exist that can relieve the symptoms of many forms of pneumoconiosis, but there are no known cures. Precautions should be taken to eliminate airborne contaminants from the work and living environment.
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