When dust particles are inhaled, they can become lodged in the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. The body's immune response to these foreign particles can result in inflammation and scarring, known as fibrosis. Over time, this can impair lung function and lead to symptoms like chronic cough and shortness of breath. The pathogenesis is influenced by factors such as particle size, chemical composition, and the duration of exposure.
