PEARSON & PEARSON, L.L.P.

Symptoms

Symptoms may not appear in the early stages of chronic silicosis. In fact, chronic silicosis may go undetected for 15 to 20 years after exposure. As silicosis progresses, symptoms may include:

·         Shortness of breath

·         Severe cough

·         Weakness

Because the body's ability to fight infections may be weakened by silica in the lungs, other illnesses (such as tuberculosis) may result and can cause:

·         Fever

·         Weight loss

·         Night sweats

·         Chest pains

·         Respiratory failure

These symptoms can become worse over time, leading to death.

Treatment   

There is no specific treatment for silicosis. Removing the source of silica exposure is important to prevent the disease from getting worse. Supportive treatment includes cough medicine, bronchodilators, and oxygen if needed. Antibiotics are prescribed for respiratory infections as needed.

Treatment also includes limiting exposure to irritants, quitting smoking, and having routine tuberculosis skin tests.

People with silicosis are at high risk for developing tuberculosis (TB). Silica is believed to interfere with the body's immune response to the bacteria that causes TB. People with silicosis should have skin tests to check for exposure to TB. Those with a positive skin test should be treated with anti-TB drugs. Any change in the appearance of the chest x-ray may be a sign of TB.

Outlook (Prognosis)   

The outcome varies depending on the amount of damage to the lungs.

Possible Complications

• Increased risk for tuberculosis
• Progressive massive fibrosis