What is IPF – Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis?
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a serious lung disease. IPF causes scar tissue to grow inside your lungs and makes it hard to breathe. It gets worse over time. There is no cure for IPF. But treatments can slow down the progression and damage to the lungs.
There are treatments for pulmonary fibrosis to help you breathe easier and manage your symptoms. You may be able to have a lung transplant.
Idiopathic means that the cause is unknown. Studies have identified several potential risks such as genetic factors, viruses, lifestyle factors, environmental factors and even occupational factors. But as said the exact cause is unknown and this field needs more research. In this blog we will go through certain lifestyle factors that pose a major risk of developing IPF.
Cigarette smoking
Just like other lung diseases, cigarette smoking has a strong association with IPF, especially for people who have smoked heavily and longer. So, if you smoke, stop. If you need help in quitting, join a support group or consult a specialist.
Environmental exposure
Studies have shown that exposure to inorganic and animal dusts & fumes from chemicals increases the risk of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis significantly. It includes:
- asbestos
- livestock dust
- bird droppings
- metal dusts such as brass, lead and steel
- wood dust and wood fires
Some of the occupations that involve exposure to above thins include:
- stone cutting and polishing
- farming
- raising birds
- welding
- printing
- industrial car cleaning
- textile work
- painting
- technical dental work
Minimizing the exposure time or having proper ventilation at the work place can reduce the risk factors.
Following a healthy lifestyle
Healthy eating is always primary factor to defend your body from diseases. Limit your intake of fast food, processed foods and foods with high sugar. If you are overweight or obese, you need to consult your doctor to gain a healthy weight.
Researchers have also found that people with diet related diseases such as diabetes and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are also at an increased risk of IPF.
Apart from healthy eating, focus on staying active. Walking is a great moderate exercise, and even walking around your house or apartment counts.
Other lifestyle tips
It includes:
- Monitor the air quality in your home
- De-stress as much as possible
- Figure out what relaxes you and make some time each day for that activity (meditation, breathing exercise, reading, playing with pet, etc.)
- Sleep well and get a good night’s rest
- Avoid infections
The takeaway
You can’t change your genetics, but you can maintain healthy lifestyle habits that will keep you and your lungs in good shape. Number one on the list for smokers: Stop smoking.
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