Silicosis: Lung Damage Caused by Silica Dust Exposure

Silicosis is a serious occupational lung disease caused by inhaling fine particles of silica, a mineral found in rock, sand, concrete, and mineral ores such as quartz. Prolonged exposure to silica dust leads to progressive scarring of the lungs, which interferes with normal breathing and oxygen exchange.

In Canada, silicosis most commonly affects individuals working in mining, construction, stone cutting, foundry work, glass manufacturing, and concrete or masonry industries. The condition may develop within weeks or decades after exposure, depending on the intensity and duration of silica inhalation.

Types of Silicosis

Silicosis is classified based on how quickly symptoms develop after exposure:

Acute Silicosis

• Develops within weeks to a few years of heavy exposure

• Causes fatigue, cough, weight loss, fever, sharp chest pain, and severe shortness of breath

• Symptoms may appear suddenly and progress rapidly

Chronic Silicosis

• Develops 10–30 years after long-term exposure

• Most commonly affects the upper lungs

• Results in extensive scarring, chronic cough, and progressive breathing difficulty

Accelerated Silicosis

• Occurs within 5–10 years of intense exposure

• Symptoms and lung damage progress faster than chronic silicosis

How Silicosis Develops

Once inhaled, microscopic silica particles become trapped deep in the lungs. The body cannot effectively remove them, leading to inflammation and permanent scarring (fibrosis). As lung tissue stiffens, oxygen delivery becomes less efficient, resulting in worsening respiratory symptoms over time.

Signs and Symptoms of Silicosis

Symptoms may appear weeks to years after exposure and typically worsen as lung damage progresses.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent cough (often the earliest sign)
• Shortness of breath, especially with activity
• Fatigue and weakness
• Weight loss
• Chest tightness or pain

Advanced Disease Symptoms

As scarring becomes extensive, individuals may experience:

• Phlegm-producing cough
• Crackling lung sounds
• Rapid breathing
• Bluish lips or fingertips (low oxygen levels)
• Swelling of the legs (advanced lung disease complications)

Diagnosis and Management

Diagnosis

Doctors may use:

• Chest X-rays or CT scans
• Lung function tests
• Occupational exposure history

Treatment and Management

There is no cure for silicosis, and treatment focuses on slowing progression and managing symptoms:

• Oxygen therapy for breathing support
• Inhaled bronchodilators to open airways
• Inhaled or oral steroids to reduce inflammation
• Medications to reduce mucus buildup

Avoiding further exposure to silica dust and respiratory irritants such as smoking, air pollution, and workplace dust is essential to prevent worsening disease.

Prevention Is Critical

Silicosis is largely preventable. Workers should:

• Use appropriate respiratory protection
• Follow workplace safety protocols
• Ensure proper ventilation and dust control
• Participate in occupational health monitoring

Early recognition and workplace safety education play a major role in preventing long-term lung damage.

First Aid & Occupational Health Disclaimer

This content is provided for educational and first aid awareness purposes only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or occupational health evaluation. Silicosis is a serious condition requiring assessment by qualified healthcare and workplace safety professionals.

Learning to recognize respiratory distress, chronic lung symptoms, and workplace health risks is an important part of first aid education. Canadians working in high-risk industries are encouraged to complete First Aid and CPR training to better respond to breathing emergencies and occupational injuries.