Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis is under the category of Interstitial Lung Diseases that cause scarring to occur in the lungs. Once the scarring occurs there is no way to reverse it. However, interstitial pulmonary fibrosis treatment can help to maintain and manage the symptoms.
According to the American Lung Association, out of the 140,000 Americans who have been diagnosed with Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis, less than 50% will survive more than five years.
Talk to a doctor or a professional healthcare provider before you decide on any interstitial pulmonary fibrosis treatment. Your doctor can provide you with more treatment options that are better suited for your condition.
Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis Treatment
Several prescription medications are available to help reduce the rate at which scarring occurs in the lungs. Be sure that you are taking these medications on time and as directed by your doctor.
Oxygen therapy can also help a patient breathe more easily. An oxygen tank that the patient carries provides oxygen when needed. It is important that you or any family member or caretaker learn how to use the oxygen equipment properly.
If your condition of Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis is severe, it can lead to a collapsed lung, lung infections, blood clots in the lungs, lung cancer, respiratory failure, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure.
If this is the case, then your only option may be surgery to get a lung transplant. This may take a long time as transplant patients are usually put on waiting lists based on their age, health and condition.
Living a healthier lifestyle can also help someone with Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis. This can mean cooking foods that are better for your diet and quitting smoking.
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