Common Symptoms of Silicosis

Silicosis is a chronic lung disease that can have an immense impact on an individual’s life. It is caused by inhaling silica dust for a long period of time. Identifying the potential signs of silicosis through common symptoms can signal that it’s time to visit your doctor.

If you or a loved one is diagnosed with silicosis, discuss your legal options in Los Angeles with a silicosis attorney during a free case review at Rose, Klein & Marias, LLP.

What Is Silicosis?

Silicosis is a lung disease that can arise due to breathing in silica dust or fine silica particles, typically in the workplace. It is a chronic health problem with no known cure. Silica dust can be inhaled in mining and construction jobs where sand, quartz and other types of rock are used. According to the American Lung Association, approximately 2.3 million workers in the U.S. are exposed to silica in the workplace.

Silicosis occurs when silica particles enter the lungs and cause inflammation, leading to the development of scar tissue and lung nodules over time (known as pulmonary fibrosis). A buildup of scar tissue in the lungs can make it difficult to breathe. Irritation of the lungs from silica exposure can also lead to lung cancer, bronchitis, tuberculosis, autoimmune disorders and kidney disease.

Signs and Symptoms of Silicosis

Although silicosis has no cure, there are treatments available that can improve a patient’s quality of life and prognosis. Early intervention is always best. Noticing the potential signs of silicosis as soon as possible is ideal so that you can change jobs, prevent further silica exposure and begin treatments to manage your symptoms.

The most notable symptoms of silicosis include:

• Persistent cough that won’t go away
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath (especially with activity)
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Chest pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Chronic bronchitis
• Increased mucus or sputum production
• Bluish lips or fingertips (low blood oxygen levels)
• Respiratory failure, in severe cases

As the disease progresses, you may notice more severe trouble breathing, as well as night sweats and fever. Signs of silicosis may take 10 to 30 years or longer to arrive after the date of silica exposure. It takes many years for silicosis to progress into a noticeable problem that affects the individual’s daily life.

Diagnosing Silicosis

Physicians diagnose silicosis by assessing the symptoms experienced by the patient and performing a physical exam to search for signs of lung tissue scarring. This includes a physical exam and listening to the lungs, typically followed by imaging tests of the chest and lungs, a bronchoalveolar lavage (“washing” the lungs and examining the fluid), and lung biopsies.

Steps to Take After a Silicosis Diagnosis in Los Angeles

If you are diagnosed with silicosis after experiencing symptoms, discuss treatment options with your doctor. When you are ready to explore your legal rights with a personal injury attorney, call (800) 362-7427 for a free consultation with a Los Angeles silicosis attorney. 

You may be eligible for financial compensation from an employer, company or property owner for negligently exposing you to silica dust. We will evaluate your case to determine if compensation is available. Contact us today to get started.