Acute Silicosis Causes & Risks

Causes

Crystalline silica can be found in:

Concrete
Masonry
Sandstone
Rock
Paint
Other abrasives
Soil
Mortar
Plaster
Shingles

When these materials are cut, broken, crushed, drilled, ground, or blasted, silica dust may be produced.

When silica dust gets into the air you breathe, it may become trapped in your lungs. The dust builds up damages your lungs. More dust will create more damage. This will make it hard for you to breathe.

Pathway to Lungs

Risk Factors

Working in the following occupations increases your chance of acute silicosis:

Sandblasting (the most common cause of acute silicosis)
Construction
Wrecking and demolition
Abrasive blasting
Masonry
Concrete finishing
Drywall finishing
Rock drilling
Stone milling or cutting
Mining
Sand and gravel screening
Rock crushing (for road base)
Agriculture
Ceramics, clay, pottery
Glass manufacturing
Vitreous enameling of china plumbing fixtures
Manufacturing of soaps and detergents
Shipyards, railroads

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2023 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.