Pulmonary Fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive lung disease in which the tissue deep in the lungs becomes scarred (fibrotic), making the lungs thick and stiff. This scarring makes it increasingly difficult to breathe and prevents adequate oxygen from reaching the bloodstream. When no identifiable cause is found, the condition is called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which is the most common and severe form.
Symptoms
Causes
- Long-term exposure to environmental toxins such as asbestos, silica, or coal dust
- Radiation therapy to the chest for cancer treatment
- Certain medications including chemotherapy drugs, heart medications, and some antibiotics
- Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, or lupus
- Idiopathic (unknown cause) in many cases
Risk Factors
- Age between 50 and 70 years
- History of cigarette smoking
- Occupational exposure to industrial dusts and chemicals
- Family history of pulmonary fibrosis
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Male sex (slightly higher incidence)
Diagnosis
- High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan of the chest
- Pulmonary function tests (spirometry, diffusion capacity)
- Pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas analysis
- Surgical lung biopsy in uncertain cases
- Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) to analyze lung fluid
Treatment
- Antifibrotic medications (pirfenidone, nintedanib) to slow disease progression
- Supplemental oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygen levels
- Pulmonary rehabilitation including exercise training and breathing techniques
- Lung transplantation for advanced, end-stage disease
- Treatment of underlying causes such as GERD or autoimmune conditions
- Palliative care for symptom management in advanced stages
Prevention
- Avoid exposure to occupational and environmental lung irritants
- Wear appropriate respiratory protective equipment in dusty or toxic environments
- Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke exposure
- Get vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcal disease
- Manage gastroesophageal reflux disease to prevent aspiration
When to See a Doctor
- You experience progressively worsening shortness of breath
- A persistent dry cough lasts more than 3-4 weeks without improvement
- You notice fingertip or toe clubbing
- You have known occupational exposure to dusts or toxins and develop respiratory symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
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