Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition that causes lung scarring and stiffness and this makes it difficult to breathe. As pulmonary fibrosis worsens, patient becomes progressively shorter of breath.
The scarring of the lung tissue can be caused by a multitude of factors. But in certain cases doctors can’t exactly tell the cause of the problem. When a cause can't be found, the condition is termed idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
The lung damage caused by pulmonary fibrosis can't be repaired, but medications and therapies can sometimes help ease symptoms and improve quality of life.
Symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis
For some time, patient may not show any symptoms, while shortness of breath is typically the first symptom that develops. Other signs and symptoms may include:- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chest discomfort
- Aching muscles and joints
- Widening and rounding of the tips of the fingers or toes (clubbing)
Again, the severity of the symptoms varies considerably from person to person. Some become ill very quickly while some develop symptoms very slowly.
What causes pulmonary fibrosis?
The causes of pulmonary fibrosis can be divided into several categories:
Autoimmune disease - cause your body’s immune system to attack itself. These conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, polymyositis, vasculitis, dermatomyositis, etc.
Infections – bacterial and viral infections may cause pulmonary fibrosis.
Environmental factors - Long-term exposure to a number of toxins and pollutants can damage your lungs. These include: silica dust, coal dust, asbestos fibers, hard metal dust, grain dust, certain gases or radiation.
Medications – some medications also raise the risk of developing pulmonary fibrosis such as: chemotherapy drugs, heart medications, some antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Pulmonary fibrosis diagnosis
To diagnose your condition, your doctor may review your medical and family history, discuss your signs and symptoms, review any exposure you've had to dusts, gases and chemicals, and conduct a physical exam.
Imaging tests – Chest x-ray, CT scan, Echocardiogram
Lung function tests - Pulmonary function testing, Pulse oximetry, Exercise stress test,
Arterial blood gas test
Biopsy – Bronchoscopy, Surgical biopsy
Blood tests
Pulmonary fibrosis treatment
Your doctor can’t reverse the lung scarring, but they can prescribe treatments to help improve your breathing and to slow the progression of the disease.
Below are some treatment options used for managing pulmonary fibrosis:
- supplemental oxygen also known as oxygen therapy
- medications including - pirfenidone (Esbriet) and nintedanib (Ofev)
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- Lung transplant
- Healthy lifestyle – no smoking, eat well, get moving
Looking for Pulmonary Fibrosis Doctor/Treatment in Ahmedabad?
As said earlier, early diagnosis and treatment can improve the long-term outlook for people with pulmonary fibrosis. If you’re having trouble breathing, make an appointment with your doctor. Consult for pulmonary fibrosis treatment in Ahmedabad.