Silicosis is a medical condition which is an occupational hazard for people involved with mining, quarrying, sand blasting, cement and glass manufacturing, masonry, blast furnaces, coal mining, and construction work. This condition is caused by inhalation of dust containing crystalline silica which is present in granite, slate and sandstone. Silicosis can be either acute or chronic, and involves symptoms such as cough, breathlessness, wheezing, clubbing of fingers, lack of oxygen in the blood, and other symptoms of chronic heart failure. Chronic silicosis may also cause different types of cancer such as Mesothelioma.
Since silicosis is an occupational hazard, the first step is to avoid excessive exposure and inhalation of dust in various forms. The use of masks and filters is very important at work in such environments. Ayurvedic herbal treatment for silicosis is aimed at reducing or reversing the damage to the lungs, which is caused by exposure to crystalline silica. Herbal medicines which reduce inflammation and infection in the lungs form the mainstay of treatment in the management of this condition. Medicines which have a specific action on the lungs and which help to treat and normalise the mucosa lining the lungs and respiratory tract are important in the treatment of this condition.
Ayurvedic herbal medicines which have a specific immunomodulatory effect on the lungs as well as on the entire body are also used in the management of chronic silicosis. These medicines prevent or reduce damage to the lungs and body because of occupational exposure to silica. Depending upon the severity of the condition, individuals affected with silicosis require treatment ranging from 3 to12 months, in order to improve significantly from the after-effects of this condition. Long-term treatment may also significantly reduce the possibility of cancer arising from silicosis. Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant role to play in the management and treatment of silicosis.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
