Acute Silicosis Exposure Concern. What Is The Likelihood That Exposure

Posted on Tue, 18 Aug 2020

Question: Acute silicosis exposure concern. What is the likelihood that exposure to joint compound dust without a mask for two days results in acute silicosis?
How long would one need to be exposed for acute silicosis to occur?

My family and I were in the home when the sanding was being done by the worker. None of us had masks on. There were only a couple windows open in the house at the time

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Acute silicosis usually develops over days to weeks.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on Ask a doctor forum.
I can understand your concern.
Acute silicosis usually develops over days to weeks of heavy continuous exposure.
And to be honest it is not that common.
So I don't think any of you will develop acute silicosis from this exposure.
So be relax and calm, don't worry.
But watch for symptoms like acute cough, breathlessness, weight loss, chest tightness etc.
If any of you develop any of these symptoms then get done chest x ray.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to all of you. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Drkaushal85 (41 minutes later)

Thank you. What or how much is considered heavy coninous exposure?

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
There is no exact definition.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your follow up question on Ask a doctor forum.
Honestly speaking, there is no exact definition.
But two days exposure with windows open will not cause acute silicosis.
So no need to worry about acute silicosis.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj