Treatment

There is no cure for silicosis. A number of supportive treatments are available, including cough suppression medications, bronchodilators, and oxygen if needed. Antibiotics are prescribed for respiratory infections as required.

In order to increase the effectiveness of the treatment, and prevent worsening of the disease it's important to limit any continued exposure to silica and to stop smoking.

If you have silicosis you are also at high risk for developing tuberculosis (TB). Silica is believed to interfere with the body's immune response to the bacteria that causes TB. Routine yearly skin testing to check for exposure to TB is recommended. If you have a positive skin test, your doctor may want to treat you with anti-TB drugs. Any change in the appearance of the chest X-ray is suspicious for TB.

Treatment list for Silicosis: The list of treatments mentioned in various sources for silicosis includes the following list. Always seek professional medical advice about any treatment or change in treatment plans.

  • Bronchodilators
  • Antibiotics
  • Lung drainage treatments
  • Prevention of respiratory or lung infections
  • For pain relief, see Pain Management.

For the most severe cases, heart-lung transplants may be a potential solution for some silicosis patients.

 

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