Lung Fibrosis

Lung fibrosis, also called pulmonary fibrosis, is a disease that causes continuous scarring of the lung tissue. Scarring of the lungs begins with recurring injury to the tissue. This eventually stiffens the lungs and breathing becomes difficult.

Symptoms

• According to the Mayo Clinic, the most noticeable symptoms of lung fibrosis are shortness of breath and coughing, particularly during or after physical activity. Other symptoms include unexplained weight loss, aching joints and muscles. As the disease progresses, symptoms become increasingly worse and routine activities such as getting dressed or talking on the phone will become difficult.

Causes

• The causes of lung fibrosis include long-term exposure to pollutants, toxins or radiation. Some medications such as chemotherapy drugs and psychiatric drugs can damage lung tissue. Other medical conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), pneumonia, tuberculosis and systemic lupus erythematosus can lead to lung fibrosis.

Treatments

• According to the Mayo Clinic, lung fibrosis is not reversible and it will continue to progress. There are treatments available to improve symptoms or slow the progress of the disease. These include medications such as prednisone, the use of oxygen and pulmonary rehabilitation. This focuses on efficient breathing techniques, nutrition and emotional support. The last option for severe cases of lung fibrosis is a lung transplant.