Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis
Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis Causes
The main cause is inhalation of dust from graphite, man-made carbon, or coal over a long period of time.
Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis Definition
Coal workers' pneumoconiosis or Black Lung Disease is an illness that affects the lungs, wherein coal dust deposits spread throughout the organ resulting from prolonged inhalation of coal dust. Coal dust can block airways. The disease develops into more serious illness called progressive massive fibrosis.
Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose coal workers' pneumoconiosis after noting distinguishable spots on chest X-ray of an individual exposed to the dust for long periods.
Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis Symptoms and Signs
Black lung typically doesn't cause symptoms. Although, many people having the disease easily experience cough and shortness of breath due to also having airway illness, such as emphysema or bronchitis. Conversely, severe phases of progressive massive fribrosis result to cough and frequent immobilizing breath shortness.
Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis Treatment
Prevention is very important, as there's no cure for the disease. Coal workers' pneumoconiosis can be prevented through sufficiently repressing coal dust in the work area; ventilation systems can help. Masks that purify and filter air offer some extra benefit. A worker with the disease must be moved to a place where levels of dust are low; this will help stop progressive massive fibrosis.