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 at or above the provincial level. 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.

Documents Required for Pneumoconiosis Diagnosis

When applying for a diagnosis of an occupational disease, employees need to submit an application form, proof of health damage, and occupational history documentation provided by their employer. The occupational history should include details such as the start date of dust exposure, job type, length of service, nature of dust contact, working methods, daily or monthly exposure duration, continuous exposure, workplace environmental conditions, dust control measures, and historical data on dust concentration levels.

If the diagnosis or appraisal process requires the employer to provide occupational health and monitoring information, the employer must supply it truthfully and promptly. Employees who cannot provide occupational history may submit labor relationship documents as supporting evidence, such as employment contracts, arbitration decisions, court rulings, or company records.

If the employer has not signed a contract with the employee or has terminated it, and denies the labor relationship, the employee can provide any of the following documents recognized by the labor authorities to support the diagnosis: wage payment records, social insurance contributions, work permits, identity cards, recruitment forms, attendance records, or testimonies from three or more colleagues.

Key Elements for Pneumoconiosis Diagnosis

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

Employees with Disputes Can Apply for Reassessment

If an employee disagrees with the diagnosis, they can apply for an appraisal at the local health administration department where the original diagnosis was made. Disputes will be handled by a higher-level health authority, which will organize a committee to conduct the appraisal. If the outcome is still unsatisfactory, the employee may seek a final review at the provincial level.

Treatment Principles for Pneumoconiosis

Once diagnosed, the employee should be removed from dust-related jobs immediately. Comprehensive treatment should follow, including prevention and management of complications like tuberculosis, symptom relief, slowing disease progression, and improving quality of life. Early-stage patients may benefit from rest, proper nutrition, and medication. Many patients can return to work after recovery. For advanced cases, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving comfort.

Pneumoconiosis Often Leads to Complications

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

How to Prevent Complications in Pneumoconiosis Patients

Patients with pneumoconiosis have weakened lung resistance, making them more susceptible to lung diseases. They should avoid crowded places, especially during outbreaks, and take precautions against colds. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding excessive strain, and treating coughs promptly are also important to prevent pneumothorax and other issues.

Lifestyle Tips for Pneumoconiosis Patients

Currently, there is no cure for pneumoconiosis. However, early-stage patients can maintain a normal life through proper nutrition, moderate exercise, and immune support. Key lifestyle recommendations include:

• Exercise regularly to improve lung function and overall fitness without overexertion.
• Prevent and manage complications through regular medical check-ups and prompt treatment.
• Maintain a positive mental state to support recovery and immunity.
• Ensure a comfortable living environment with good ventilation and suitable temperature.
• Follow a nutritious diet that supports lung and digestive health, and maintain a regular routine.

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