What is it?
Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition in which the tissue deep in the lungs becomes scarred over time. This tissue gets thick and stiff. This makes it difficult to breathe. It can prevent your body from getting enough oxygen and eventually can lead to respiratory failure, heart failure, or other complications.
What are the symptoms?
- Shortness of breath.
- A dry, hacking cough that doesn’t get better.
- Fatigue.
- Weight loss for no known reason.
- Aching muscles and joints.
- Clubbing, which is the widening and rounding of the tips of the fingers or toes.
What to expect?
If you are diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, you can consider discussing the following subjects with your doctor:
- Do you need investigations to asses and evaluate you recondition? If so, what preparations do you need prior to these tests?
- The treatment for pulmonary fibrosis is aimed at improving symptoms temporarily or slowing the disease’s progression and helping improve quality of life. What are your treatment options?
- A healthy diet, quitting smoking and an active lifestyle can help improve overall health and well-being. Which changes can you make in your lifestyle?
- Patients with pulmonary fibrosis are usually followed-up regularly to evaluate their condition. How often should you be visiting your doctor?