What Causes Black Lung Disease?

Black lung disease is caused by accumulation of fine coal dust within the respiratory system. Inhalation of coal dust over a long time may cause blockage of the airways, and lungs. In some cases, the black lung disease may further develop into progressive massive fibrosis. Patients suffering from progressive massive fibrosis may develop large scars in their lungs, thereby causing significant damage to the pulmonary blood vessels.

What are the Symptoms of Black Lung Disease?

Usually, simple black lung is asymptomatic. Some of the following symptoms may be present:

• Shortness of breath,
• Obstruction/Involvement of airways, and
• Severe cough.

Diagnosis of Black Lung Disease:

The following tests mughts be ordered to diagnose Black Lung Disease:

• Chest Radiographs indicative of spots, and
• Past history of exposure to coal dust.

Treatment for Black Lung Disease:

Considering that there is no real cure for Black Lung Disease, the treatment for Black Lung Disease primarily focuses on providing symptomatic relief and for improving a Black Lung patient's quality of life. The treatment for Black Lung Disease, therefore, is quite similar to that of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD.) Depending upon a patient's condition, some of the following treatment options may be prescribed:

• Avoiding tobacco smoke,
• Eliminating coal-dust/air-pollutants from the patient’s home or workplace.
• Medication for coughing, wheezing, etc.
• Combating opportunistic infections with the help of antibiotics.
• Oxygen Therapy - Improving blood oxygen levels by administering supplimental oxygen using portable oxygen tanks.

How to Prevent Black Coal /Black Lung Disease?

• Eliminating coal dust in the work environment,
• Adequate Breathing Filters/Face masks, and
• Yearly chest radiographs for early detection of Black Lung Disease.

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Note: Consult a qualified medical practitioner if you suspect lung disease. Information published at this mesothelioma lung disease asbestos cancer forum - or most other websites for that matter - should not be relied upon for health decisions. The information presented on this web site is not intended as a substitute for medical care, medical, legal, or professional advise. Please talk with your healthcare provider for all your health concerns.