Silicosis

[rdtd1965]

  I am a 42 year old male with Silicosis and COPD. I'm trying to find a support group. I have no idea to what I have too look forward to. I don't know what the life expectency is for a person with Silicosis is. Thank you for any help at all.

[National Jewish Health]

Your life expectancy, as determined by lung function, will be determined by the severity of your combined silicosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at this time, and how successfully you will be able to avoid exposure to cigarette smoke and industrial pollutants, including exposure to silicosis.  A lung specialist, with expertise in occupationally related lung diseases, such as silicosis, should be able to closely assess your current lung power, and with knowledge regarding the natural history of silicosis, provide at least a rough projection of life expectancy.  Also ask this specialist about support groups in your area.  You can help yourself by striving to live where you can breathe the cleanest air you can find.

Good luck

[Martha70]

A related discussion, silicon valley was started.

[rdtd1965]

  Thank you for the information, how do I find a Doctor close to my area that has this noledge to help me?I live in Fort Smith,Ar.