(information obtained from Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation: 10.1.11)

What is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Pulmonary Fibrosis is the progressive scarring of the lungs that occurs when air sacs known as alveoli gradually become replaced by fibrotic tissue or scar tissue. As the scar tissue becomes thicker, it leads to stiffness in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. Pulmonary fibrosis is found in over 200 lung disorders, so it is important for your health care provider to identify the cause of the fibrosis, because different types of fibrosis respond to different treatments.

What are the symptoms?
• Shortness of breath, particularly with exertion
• Chronic dry, hacking cough
• Fatigue and weakness
• Discomfort in the chest
• Loss of appetite
• Rapid weight loss

What’s the prevalence of Pulmonary Fibrosis?
• 5,000,000 people Worldwide affected
• 200,000 patients in the United States, of these:
• 40,000 expire annually
• Typically patients are in their 40s and 50s when diagnosed, however, diagnoses have ranged
from age 7 to the 80s.

What are the causes?
While the exact cause remains unknown, associations have been made with the following:
• Inhaled environmental and occupational pollutants
• Diseases such as Scleroderma, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus and Sarcoidosis
• Certain medications
• Therapeutic radiation

How is it treated?
There are currently no effective treatments or a cure for Pulmonary Fibrosis. Supplemental oxygen improves the quality of life and exercise capacity. Single lung transplant may be considered for some patients. Pulmonary Fibrosis is a very complex disease and the prediction of longevity of patients varies greatly.

How can I take care of myself?
If you smoke, quitting can slow the progress of the disease considerably.
You can partially control symptoms by following these guidelines for home care:
• Stop smoking.
• Avoid smoke-filled environments.
• Eat nutritious foods.
• Eat high-calorie snacks between meals if you are underweight.
• Take vitamin and mineral supplements if recommended by your doctor.
• Be as active as you comfortably can.
• Get plenty of rest and sleep.
• Learn to use relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety and fear.
• Get pneumonia immunization as well as annual flu immunizations.