How can my GP help?

See your GP if you think there's apossibility you could have silicosis.

Your GP may suspecttheconditionafter asking about your symptoms and work history, and listening to your lungs with a stethoscope. They'll want to know about any periods when you may have been exposed to silica and whether you were issued with any safety equipment, such as a face mask, when you were working.

If silicosis is suspected, you may be referred to a specialist for further tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests can include:

• a chest X-ray to detect abnormalities in the structure of your lungs
• a computerised tomography (CT) scan of your chest, to produce more detailed images of your lungs
• lung function testing (spirometry), which involves breathing into a machine called a spirometer to assess how well your lungs are working

You may also be asked to have a test for TB,as you're more likely to get TB if you have silicosis.