1. a chronic lung disease caused by inhalation of cotton, flax, or hemp dust in textile manufacturing
Usage: occupational disease; also called brown lung disease

Examples

• Workers in cotton mills are at risk of developing byssinosis from prolonged exposure to fiber dust.
• Byssinosis symptoms include chest tightness and shortness of breath, especially on the first day back at work.
• The textile industry has implemented safety measures to reduce the incidence of byssinosis among employees.
• Doctors diagnosed the factory worker with byssinosis after years of inhaling cotton dust.
• Proper ventilation and protective equipment can help prevent byssinosis in textile plants.