Pulmonary Fibrosis
A lung disease in which tissue becomes damaged and scarred, causing breathing difficulty.
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Dry cough
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Clubbing of fingers or toes
Causes & Risk Factors
- Idiopathic origin
- Environmental exposures
- Radiation therapy
- Autoimmune disease (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
Diagnosis
- High-resolution CT scan
- Pulmonary function testing
- Oxygen saturation measurement
- Lung biopsy (in select cases)
Effective Treatment Options
- Antifibrotic medications (e.g., pirfenidone)
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- Oxygen therapy
- Nutrition assessment
- Lung transplant (if eligible)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can pulmonary fibrosis be reversed?
No, but treatments can slow progression and improve quality of life.
Is exercise safe with pulmonary fibrosis?
Yes, with guidance, it can maintain stamina and lung capacity.
