About Silicosis and Symptoms of Silicosis

Silicosis is a respiratory disease caused by inhalation of silica dust, which leads to inflammation and then scarring of the lung tissue. The type you develop depends on the length and intensity of your exposure. Some forms take many years to develop, whereas others manifest very quickly. See Types of Silicosis.

Because of the time lag between exposure and onset of the disease, and because its initial symptoms of silicosis often mimic common minor ailments, you may not realize you have silicosis until long after you begin experiencing its effects. If you or someone you know has silicosis, this overview will help you understand the disease in greater detail.