pneumoconiosis

A group of interstitial lung diseases (scarring or fibrosis of the lungs) caused by the inhalation of certain dusts and the lung tissue's reaction to the dust.
The scarring causes stiffness in the lungs which makes it difficult to breathe and get oxygen to the bloodstream. The lung damage is often irreversible and progressive, so gets worse over time. In most cases, by the time the symptoms appear, lung damage has already been done so it is important to see your doctor immediately.

The principal cause is workplace exposure and environmental exposures are rare.
(Examples)
• asbestosis: Caused by long-term exposure to asbestos fibers.
• silicosis: Caused by inhalation of silica dust.
• coal workers' pneumoconiosis (black lung): Caused by inhalation of coal mine dust.
• hypersensitivity pneumonitis: Inflammation as an allergic reaction to inhaled microorganisms, plant and animal proteins or chemicals.
Smoking can not only cause it, but also make the condition much worse, so, to cure, strongly encouraged to quit.

(Symptoms)
• shortness of breath, often accompanied by a dry cough, chest discomfort, fatigue, and occasionally weight loss

(Complications)
• high blood pressure
• heart or respiratory failure

(Diagnose)
• chest X-ray or CT scan
• lung function test (total lung capacity)
• bronchoscopy (invasive)
• lung biopsy (invasive)

(Treatment: Relieving symptoms, improving quality of life, and slowing the disease's progression.)
• corticosteroids: Decreases inflammation in the lungs.
• oxygen therapy: Delivers extra oxygen to make breathing easier and lessen complications from low blood oxygen levels (e.g. heart failure).
• pulmonary rehabilitation: Improves lung efficiency, physical endurance, and emotional support.
• lung transplantation: With certain associated risks, extends life expectancy and enhances the quality of life for those with end stage pulmonary disease.