Treatment:

There is no specific treatment for silicosis. Removing the source of silica exposure is important to prevent the disease from getting worse. Supportive treatment includes cough medicine, bronchodilators, and oxygen if needed. Antibiotics are prescribed for respiratory infections as needed.

Treatment also includes limiting exposure to irritants, quitting smoking, and having routine tuberculosis skin tests.

People with silicosis are at high risk for developing tuberculosis (TB). Silica is believed to interfere with the body's immune response to the bacteria that cause TB. People with silicosis should have skin tests to check for exposure to TB. Those with a positive skin test should be treated with anti-TB drugs. Any change in the appearance of the chest x-ray may be a sign of TB.

Patients with severe silicosis may need to have a lung transplant.

Support Groups:

Joining a support group where you can meet other people with silicosis or related diseases can help you understand your disease and adapt to its treatments.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies depending on the amount of damage to the lungs.

Complications:

• Connective tissue disease, including rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma (also called progressive systemic sclerosis), and systemic lupus erythematosus
• Lung cancer
• Progressive massive fibrosis
• Respiratory failure
• Tuberculosis

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you are exposed to silica at work and you have symptoms of the disease.