Stephen J. Schueler, M.D.


Miner's Lung Overview

Another name for Miner's Lung is Coal Worker's Pneumoconiosis.

What is coal worker's pneumoconiosis?
A person with coal worker's pneumoconiosis has inflammation of the air passageways in the lungs, caused by exposure to coal dust. Coal worker's pneumoconiosis occurs only after the long-term exposure to coal dust. Coal dust is not highly toxic, but can gradually damage the lungs over time. Pneumoconiosis occurs in about 50% of anthracite miners who have been working for more than 20 years.

What are the symptoms of coal worker's pneumoconiosis?
Common symptoms of coal worker's pneumoconiosis include slowly increasing shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, and chest pain that worsens with coughing or deep breathing.

How does the doctor treat coal worker's pneumoconiosis?
The treatment for coal worker's pneumoconiosis includes bronchodilator medications, inhaled corticosteroids, chest physical therapy, and oral corticosteroids. Some may benefit from home oxygen therapy.

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Last Updated: Aug 25, 2010 References

PubMed Miner's Lung References