Pneumoconiosises is a medical term that refers to conditions caused by the inhalation of dust particles into the lungs. It includes a variety of respiratory disorders that can cause significant damage over time, such as silicosis, coal worker's pneumoconiosis, and asbestosis. Since this term can be a bit of a tongue-twister, it is helpful to know some synonyms. Other terms used to describe this condition include occupational lung disease, dust lung, miner's lung, black lung disease, and inhalation injury. If you work in an industry that exposes you to dust or other respiratory hazards, it is important to take precautions to protect your lungs.