MamasHealth.com Home Lung Diseases and Illnesses ARDS Asbestosis Asthma Black Lung Disease Bronchiectasis Bronchitis Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Brown Lung Disease Chronic Beryllium Control Asthma COPD Cystic Fibrosis Emphysema Farmer's Lung Histoplasmosis Kartagener's Syndrome Lung Cancer Partial Lung Collapse Pleurisy Pneumothorax Pulmonary Embolism Pulmonary Fibrosis Silicosis Tuberculosis Links Email Mama Prevent CO poisoning A child's personal story about their battle with asthma Health benefits of sex	What is Black Lung Disease? Black lung disease is a chronic occupational lung disease contracted by the prolonged breathing of coal mine dust. Black lung disease is also called anthracosis, black lung, black spittle, coal worker's pneumoconiosis, miner's asthma, pneumoconiosis, and silicosis. Risk of Contracting Black Lung Disease The risk of having black lung disease is directly related to the amount of coal mine dust inhaled over the years. Black lung disease usually affects workers over age 50. Symptoms of Black Lung Disease Most people with black lung disease do not have symptoms. When symptoms are present, the most common ones are: Shortness of breath Obstruction/Involvement of airways Severe cough Complications of Black Lung Disease In severe cases, an enlargement and strain of the right side of the heart may occur. This is caused by chronic lung disease. The strain on the heart may eventually cause right-sided heart failure. Some patients also develop emphysema. How is Black Lung Disease Diagnosed? Black lung disease can be diagnosed through a series of tests. Chest x-rays and a pulmonary function tests are the most common diagnostic tools. Can Black Lung Disease Be Treated? Unfortunately, there is no cure for black lung disease. Treatments are aimed at the symptoms and complications. Can Black Lung Disease be Prevented? The only way to prevent black lung disease is to avoid long-term exposure to coal dust.	Partner with MamasHealth.com Sign up for our Email Newsletter For Email Marketing you can trust
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