Pneumoconiosis is an occupational disease caused by the inhalation of chemical substances, such as silica, aluminum, asbestos, graphite or asbestos, for example, leading to problems and breathing difficulties.
Pneumoconiosis usually occurs in people working in places where there is direct and constant contact with a lot of dust, such as coal mines, metallurgical factories or construction works and, therefore, it is considered an occupational disease. Thus, when working, the person inhales these substances and, over time, pulmonary fibrosis can occur, making it difficult to expand the lungs and resulting in respiratory complications, such as bronchitis or chronic emphysema. Learn about other illnesses that can arise at work.
Types of pneumoconiosis
Pneumoconiosis is not an isolated disease, but several diseases that may present more or less the same symptoms but that differ by cause, that is, by the powder or substance inhaled. Thus, the main types of pneumoconiosis are:
- Silicosis, in which silica dust is inhaled in excess; Anthracosis, also called black lung, in which coal dust is inhaled; Berylliosis, in which there is constant inhalation of beryllium dust or gases; Bisinosis, which is characterized by the inhalation of dust from cotton, linen or hemp fibers; Siderosis, where there is excessive inhalation of dust containing iron particles. When, in addition to iron, silica particles are inhaled, this pneumoconiosis is called Siderosilicosis.
Pneumoconiosis usually does not cause symptoms, however if the person has constant contact with these potentially toxic substances and has a dry cough, difficulty breathing or chest tightness, it is recommended to seek medical help so that tests can be done and to diagnose possible pneumoconiosis.
It is mandated by law that companies perform examinations at the time of admission, before dismissal and during the person's contract period so that any work-related illness, such as pneumoconiosis, is checked. Thus, it is recommended that people who work in these conditions make at least 1 consultation with the pulmonologist per year in order to check their health status. See which are the admission, dismissal and periodic exams.
How to avoid
The best way to prevent pneumoconiosis is to use a mask well adapted to the face during work, to avoid inhaling chemicals that cause the disease, in addition to washing hands, arms and face before going home.
However, the workplace must also provide favorable conditions, such as having a ventilation system that sucks up dust and places to wash hands, arms and face before leaving work.
How the treatment is done
Treatment for pneumoconiosis should be guided by a pulmonologist, but it usually includes the use of corticosteroid medications, such as Betamethasone or Ambroxol, to reduce symptoms and facilitate breathing. In addition, the person should avoid being in very polluted or dusty places.
