Silicosis is a lung disease caused by inhaling fine particles of silica, a mineral found in materials like sand, rock, and gravel. When these particles are breathed in, they can cause inflammation and scarring in the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties and other health issues over time. There are three types of silicosis: chronic, accelerated, and acute. Chronic silicosis develops after many years of exposure, while accelerated silicosis occurs with more intense exposure over a shorter period. Acute silicosis can happen after very high levels of exposure in a brief time, leading to severe symptoms.