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Silicosis

Also called Silica lung disease

Silicosis is a long-term lung disease caused by breathing in large amounts of silica dust over many years. Silica is found in stone, sand, rock, concrete and engineered stone worktops. People who work in quarrying, construction, stonemasonry and making kitchen worktops are most at risk. The dust causes scarring in the lungs, making breathing harder over time.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

There is no cure, and the damage cannot be reversed. Avoiding further exposure and stopping smoking are important.

Treatment helps symptoms and may include inhalers, oxygen and pulmonary rehabilitation. People with silicosis have a higher risk of tuberculosis and lung cancer.

Common signs

  • A persistent cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Tiredness
  • Weight loss
  • Chest pain

How it is usually diagnosed

  • Questions about work history
  • Chest X-ray or CT scan
  • Lung function tests

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • Chest X-ray and CT reports
  • Lung function results
  • Occupational health records
  • Respiratory letters

Questions to ask your doctor

  • How much has my breathing been affected?
  • Should I be checked for tuberculosis?
  • What support is available, including at work?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Severe breathlessness, chest pain or coughing up blood: call 112

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseaseA common long-term lung condition, mainly caused by smoking, that makes it hard to breathe and gets worse over time.Tuberculosis (TB)A bacterial infection that usually affects the lungs and spreads through coughs. It can be cured with a long course of antibiotics.Lung cancerOne of the most common cancers, mainly caused by smoking. Found early, it can often be treated successfully.