Diagnosis and treatment of pneumoconiosis

Where to Diagnose Pneumoconiosis

According to national regulations, the diagnosis of pneumoconiosis must be conducted at a medical institution approved by the health administrative department of a provincial-level or higher government. Employees can choose to have their condition diagnosed either at the location where their employer is based or where they reside, as long as it complies with legal procedures for occupational disease diagnosis.

Required Documents for Pneumoconiosis Diagnosis

When applying for a pneumoconiosis diagnosis, employees need to submit an application form, evidence of their health damage, and proof of their occupational history provided by the employer. This occupational history should include details such as the start date of dust exposure, job type, length of service, nature of dust contact, work methods, frequency of exposure, workplace environmental conditions, and dust concentration data collected over time.

If the diagnosis requires information from the employer regarding occupational health and monitoring, the employer must provide this information truthfully and promptly. If an employee cannot provide direct proof of their occupational history, they may submit documents proving their labor relationship, such as employment contracts, labor arbitration decisions, court rulings, or internal company records.

If the employer has not signed a contract with the employee or has terminated it, and denies the existence of a labor relationship, the employee may provide any of the following documents recognized by the labor department, which can serve as valid evidence for diagnosis:

• Wage payment records or payroll statements;
• Documents showing employment status, such as work permits or ID cards issued by the employer;
• Recruitment forms, entry records, or other documentation proving the hiring process;
• Attendance records and testimonials from three or more colleagues.

Key Elements for Pneumoconiosis Diagnosis

The essential elements for diagnosing pneumoconiosis include the worker’s history of dust exposure, on-site dust hazard assessments, clinical symptoms, and results from auxiliary examinations. If there is no evidence to rule out the link between the risk factors and the patient’s symptoms, the condition should be diagnosed as pneumoconiosis after excluding other possible causes.

Employee Rights to Dispute Diagnosis

If an employee disagrees with the diagnosis, they can apply for an appraisal at the local health administration office where the original diagnosis was made. In case of disputes, the local health authority will organize an occupational disease diagnosis and appraisal committee to conduct a review based on the parties’ applications.

If the employee remains unsatisfied with the decision from the municipal-level appraisal committee, they can apply for a re-appraisal at the provincial level. Provincial-level appraisals are considered final in the diagnostic process.

Treatment Principles for Pneumoconiosis

Once diagnosed, the employee should be immediately removed from dusty work environments. Comprehensive treatment should be implemented based on the patient's condition, including prevention and management of complications like tuberculosis, symptom relief, and improving quality of life. Early-stage patients may benefit from short-term rest, proper nutrition, and medication when necessary. Many patients can recover partially and return to work after a period of care.

Pneumoconiosis Patients and Complications

Pneumoconiosis can lead to various complications, such as lung infections, tuberculosis, chronic cor pulmonale, spontaneous pneumothorax, emphysema, and heart failure. It is crucial to seek medical attention if any of these occur.

Preventing Complications in Pneumoconiosis Patients

Due to reduced lung resistance, pneumoconiosis patients are more susceptible to respiratory diseases. They should avoid close contact with tuberculosis patients, take precautions against colds, and avoid crowded areas during outbreaks. Maintaining regular bowel movements and avoiding excessive exertion can also help prevent complications like pneumothorax.

Lifestyle Recommendations for Pneumoconiosis Patients

Currently, there is no cure for pneumoconiosis, but early-stage patients can maintain a normal life through proper nutrition, moderate exercise, and immune support. Here are some lifestyle tips for daily management:

• Engage in regular physical activity to improve breathing and lung capacity, without overexerting;
• Focus on preventing and managing complications through medical care;
• Maintain a positive mental state to support overall well-being;
• Ensure a comfortable indoor temperature and good ventilation;
• Eat a balanced diet that supports digestion and immunity, and follow a healthy routine.

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