DEATH BY SILICA

How silica dust affects the lungs
Scarring: Inhaled silica particles cause permanent scarring in the lungs, a condition known as pulmonary fibrosis.
Inflammation: The dust triggers inflammation, which can stiffen the lungs and lead to difficulty breathing.
Permanent damage: This damage is irreversible and can progress even after exposure ends.
Symptoms of silica-related lung problems
Shortness of breath
Persistent cough
Fatigue and weakness
Chest pain
Unexplained weight loss
Other health risks
COPD: Exposure to silica increases the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Lung cancer: It also raises the risk of developing lung cancer.
Other diseases: Silica exposure can also lead to kidney disease and autoimmune disorders.
Tuberculosis: Workers with silicosis are at an increased risk for tuberculosis.
Who is at risk?
People who work in industries that involve cutting, grinding, drilling, or polishing materials containing silica are at a higher risk for exposure. Examples include:
Mining
Construction
Stonecutting
Sandblasting
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Irritation from inhaling silica dust
Symptoms: A sore throat, irritation, persistent coughing, and increased phlegm can result from breathing in silica dust.
Pre-existing conditions: Individuals with conditions like asthma or bronchitis may experience more severe symptoms, such as wheezing and shortness of breath.
Long-term effects: Chronic inhalation of silica dust is very toxic and can lead to serious lung diseases like silicosis, which involves lung damage, scarring, and other serious respiratory problems.

Silica Dust: Uses, Risks, & RegulationsYes, breathing silica dust can cause breathing problems through a lung disease called silicosis, which involves irreversible scarring, inflammation, and stiffening of the lungs. This damage makes it difficult to breathe and can lead to other health issues like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and kidney disease. Symptoms often include shortness of breath, chronic cough, and fatigue.