The Definitive Guide to Pulmonary Fibrosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and FAQs

Some types of pulmonary fibrosis It is a disease whose cause cannot be found. This can be caused by exposure to viruses, tobacco or a genetic disease. According to research, GERD may be a factor in how quickly pulmonary fibrosis worsens. But further studies are needed to determine its relationship with this disease.

What risk factors lead to pulmonary fibrosis?

• age Middle-aged and older adults are at greater risk of developing pulmonary fibrosis.
• sex Males are more at risk than females.
• smoking People who smoke or have ever smoked Patients with emphysema are at greater risk.
• Exposure to pollution from the workplace such as mining, farming, or construction.
• How to treat certain types of cancer such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy
• genetic factors Some types of pulmonary fibrosis can be passed on from generation to generation.

How many methods are there to diagnose pulmonary fibrosis?

• History taking and physical examination
  • The doctor will look at the patient’s health history and family health history. and inquire about symptoms along with listening to lung sounds while the patient is breathing
• blood test
  • Blood tests help assess liver and kidney function. and rule out other diseases that may be the cause of symptoms.
• Imaging diagnosis
  • Lung x-ray It is a preliminary screening test to see if there are abnormalities in the lung tissue or not.
  • Diagnostic examination using computerized tomography (CT scan) to see the extent of lung damage Helps monitor symptoms and assess whether symptoms are responding to treatment.
  • Examination of the heart using a high-frequency echo machine (Echocardiogram) To assess the pressure in the right ventricle of the heart. In cases where the patient has complications from pulmonary fibrosis
• Lung function test
  • Pulmonary function test (PFT) For example, measuring the volume of air inhaled and released from the lungs (spirometry), measuring the ability to exchange gases in the lungs and measuring lung volume.
  • Measuring oxygen saturation in the blood (Pulse oximetry) To measure the amount of oxygen circulating in the blood using a fingertip oximeter.
  • Checking your heart’s fitness with exercise (Exercise stress test) To see the function of the lungs and heart
  • Arterial blood gas test
• Biopsy of tissue for examination

Treatment of pulmonary fibrosis What is the treatment method?

pulmonary fibrosis It is a disease that is permanent. But getting early diagnosis and treatment can help improve and prolong lung function.

• Medicines such as pirfenidone and nintedanib are anti-fibrotic drugs. Helps delay fibrosis and scarring in the lungs.
• oxygen therapy It will help increase oxygen levels. Relieves shortness of breath and increases physical strength.
• pulmonary rehabilitation Helps reduce fatigue and improve the quality of life of patients.
• lung transplant

Complications of pulmonary fibrosis

High blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries Occurs from pulmonary fibrosis, resulting in the pulmonary arteries becoming smaller. This causes pulmonary vascular resistance and increased pressure in the right ventricle of the heart. Some types of pulmonary arterial hypertension May be life threatening

• heart disease due to lungs It occurs when the right ventricle of the heart has to exert force to pump blood for a long time. Can cause heart failure.
• respiratory failure This is due to dangerously low oxygen levels. It is the final stage of chronic lung disease.
• Lung infection
• pulmonary embolism
• Collapsed lung or leak in the pleural space
• lung cancer

Lifestyle changes and home treatment

• quit smoking
• Eat nutritious food Get enough energy This is because patients with pulmonary fibrosis often lose weight. Try to eat 6 small meals instead of 3 large meals.
• Exercise regularly To keep the lungs strong and reduce stress
• Get enough rest.
• Get vaccinated to reduce the risk of respiratory infections such as influenza or pneumonia.
• Follow your doctor’s advice and treatment plan.

Preparation before going to the doctor

Write down answers to questions the doctor may ask, such as:

• When did you first notice the symptoms?
• What are the symptoms?
• Have you had a previous illness such as arthritis?
• In the past 5 years, have you taken any medicines or dietary supplements?
• Have you ever worked in a dusty place?
• Do you smoke regularly?
• Do you have anyone in your family who has cystic fibrosis?
• Have you ever received radiotherapy or chemotherapy?

It is recommended to bring friends or family members. To help remember information and be a mental refuge This is because pulmonary fibrosis is a serious and complex disease.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the difference between pulmonary fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?
  Both pulmonary fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease It is a serious disease that makes it difficult to breathe and the symptoms get worse over time.
  pulmonary fibrosis It is caused by the accumulation of scar tissue and fibrosis. Makes it difficult to breathe The exact cause of the disease is not yet known.
  chronic obstructive pulmonary disease Caused by irritation and inflammation of the bronchi and air sacs of the lungs. This causes difficulty in breathing and mucus blockage in the windpipe. Asthma and exposure to high levels of pollution increase the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, such as emphysema and bronchitis.

Advice from doctors at Medpark Hospital

Patients with pulmonary fibrosis It is necessary to undergo regular examinations with a doctor. To follow up on symptoms and treatment results Using a combination of treatment methods helps promote lung function and quality of life.

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Published: 26 Dec 2023

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2023-12-26 10:05:03

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