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Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis (CWP)
by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023
This group contains additional names: - Anthracosis
Pneumoconiosis is a group of interstitial lung diseases caused by long term dust inhalation. It usually affects miners, builders and other workers who regularly breathe certain kinds of dust. Coal worker’s Pneumoconiosis, or miner’s lungs, refers to chronic inhalation of high-carbon coal and rarely graphite, typically over 20 years. Depending on the size of the particle, it reaches different sites in the lung and can cause injury if not removed. Macrophages accumulate as a result of particle impaction, and trap the particulates. Then, products that mediate inflammatory reactions are released from macrophages and fibroblast proliferation initiates- causing a firm scar tissue that makes it harder for the lung to expand. For people who also smoke cigarettes, the effects worsens.
2 people with Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis (CWP) are on Alike.
Symptoms may include long term cough, mucus and shortness of breath. Sometimes, there could be no symptoms at all.
Diagnosis includes anamnesis of risk factors, physical examination and chest X-ray or CT scan. Pulmonary function tests may be performed to evaluate how well the lung works, and oxygen blood saturation. For a final diagnosis a lung biopsy may be done.
Treatments usually includes avoiding the exposure that caused the condition- which means leaving work and stop smoking. Oxygen supplemental therapy may also help for those who have trouble breathing.
☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike
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