Black lung, also referred to as coal workers' pneumoconiosis, occurs from breathing the dust from coal or graphite, especially while mining. Long-term exposure increases the risk of inhaling dust and causes scarring of the lungs. Once dust is inhaled, it settles in the lungs and blocks the small airways. Some individuals never develop symptoms of black lung while other miners can begin to show signs after less than 10 years on the job, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Symptoms
Some people with black lung experience no symptoms associated with the condition, while some individuals with black lung may experience a chronic cough. Shortness of breath or pain in the chest may accompany the coughing. The shortness of breath can continue to worsen, according to MedlinePlus. Coal workers who also smoke have an increased risk of developing symptoms from black lung.
Diagnosis
To confirm black lung, a physician performs a physical examination and listens to the lungs with a stethoscope. A chest X-ray can reveal evidence of black lung. The X-ray reveals small spots throughout the lungs.
Treatment
There is no cure for the damage occurring in the lungs due to the exposure to coal dust. There also is no specific treatment for the condition. Individuals with a black lung diagnosis need to take measure to prevent any further exposure to coal dust. Some people experiencing shortness of breath may benefit from using a bronchodilator to help open the airway and keep the lungs free from mucous, according to the Merck Manuals.
Complications
About 1 to 3 percent of individuals diagnosed with black lung each year will experience an additional medical condition called progressive massive fibrosis, according to the Merck Manuals. This serious condition causes large scars to develop in the lungs. These scars can worsen even after exposure to the coal dust stops. Coal miners with rheumatoid arthritis may also develop a condition called Caplan's syndrome. Caplan's syndrome causes nodules of scar tissue to form in the lungs when exposed to coal dust.
Prevention
To prevent getting black lung, individuals working around coal, carbon or graphite need to use protective equipment. Wearing a protective mask will help prevent inhaling the harmful dust.
