J60-J70: Lung diseases due to external agents

J63: Pneumoconiosis due to other inorganic dusts

Pneumoconiosis due to other inorganic dusts, as included in the J63 group of conditions, encompasses several health disorders primarily affecting the lungs. The underlying cause in all these conditions is the inhalation of microscopic bits of inorganic dust typically found in certain professions like mining, construction, or industries utilizing hard metals or stone. Over time, these dust particles can cause inflammation and fibrous scarring of lung tissue, significantly reducing lung function. Common symptoms could include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or fatigue. As disease progression varies among individuals, some may experience only mild symptoms while others may encounter substantial breathing difficulties. Exposure to specific types of inorganic dust might lead to distinct forms of pneumoconiosis, hence the collection of diseases under this classification.