Pulmonary Fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis is scarring of the lungs. It occurs when the tissue around the lungs’ air sacs thickens and stiffens. Over time, pulmonary fibrosis makes breathing difficult.
While for most people, the exact cause of pulmonary fibrosis is not known, smoking and genetics (family history) can increase your risk. Pulmonary fibrosis is most common in people over 50.
Symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis
Typically, one of the first signs of pulmonary fibrosis is shortness of breath. At first, you may notice it only when you exercise, but eventually, you may feel shortness of breath even when you’re not exercising. Other symptoms include:
- A persistent, dry cough
- Clubbed fingers and toes (when the tips of the fingers and toes grow wider and rounder)
- Fatigue
- Joint and muscle aches
- Rapid breathing
- Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosing and treating pulmonary fibrosis
If you are experiencing symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis, such as shortness of breath, it’s important to talk to your primary care provider. They can examine your breathing and overall health and refer you to a pulmonologist as needed. If pulmonary fibrosis is suspected, you may need further testing.
Those tests may include:
- Breathing evaluations, such as spirometry
- Imaging tests such as chest X-rays or CT scans
- Blood tests
- Biopsy (sample) of lung tissue
While there is no cure for pulmonary fibrosis, treatments can help improve your quality of life. Your treatment plan may include:
Medications. Medications can slow the progression of pulmonary fibrosis, prevent symptoms, reduce inflammation and control conditions, such as heartburn, that can irritate your lungs. Cough medicine — over-the-counter or prescription — can reduce persistent coughing.
Oxygen therapy. This form of therapy, also known as supplemental oxygen, increases your oxygen intake, helping to relieve symptoms like shortness of breath and to support your overall health.
Pulmonary rehabilitation. This comprehensive form of rehabilitation, offered through MultiCare Pulse Heart Institute, focuses on improving your lung functioning and strength through exercise, education and holistic support.