Black lung disease is a widely-used name for any lung condition that develops after inhaling coal dust. The reason for this name is that those who have the disease have lungs that appear black instead of pink. It is medically called as pneumoconiosis and have 2 forms – simple and complicated. The inhalation and buildup of coal dust into the lungs increases the risk for developing chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
What are the causes?
The inhalation and buildup of coal dust can lead to black lung disease. This stems from working in a coal mine or trimming, manufacturing carbon electrodes and carbon black as well as mining or milling graphite.
Since black lung disease is a response to the buildup of dust inside the lungs, it might appear and worsen during contact with the dust or after exposure has stopped. The severity of the condition depends on the type of coal dust, amount of dust in the air and length of exposure.
How does it affect the lungs?
Once the coal duct builds up in the lungs, a coal macule might form. This is a mixture of macrophages and the coal dust. Once the condition progresses, the macules forms into a nodule which is an anomaly of the tissues in the lungs. Over time, a form of emphysema and fibrosis can develop.
Management and prevention
Black lung disease can be prevented by regulating dust and ensuring that there is proper ventilation in the workplace.
Even today, there is no proven treatment for black lung disease but the complications can be managed.