Guide
Guide
Pulmonary fibrosis causes scarring of the alveoli, which thickens their walls. The so-called fibrotic tissue impairs the transfer of oxygen into the blood and the oxygen uptake of those affected is severely restricted. The scarring causes the lungs to stiffen, making breathing difficult and greatly shortening life expectancy if the disease progresses rapidly.
The causes of pulmonary fibrosis can be known or unknown, also known as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The disease can only be traced back to a trigger in half of all patients. The following causes can lead to this disease.
Radiation-related
Radiation treatment of the chest is highly stressful and can promote lung scarring.
Drug-related
The current or previous use of certain medications puts a strain on the lungs. These include, for example, chemotherapy drugs, amiodarone or nitrofurantoin.
Environmental
In this type of pulmonary fibrosis, the disease was triggered by contact with molds, bird excrement or other environmental causes.
Occupational
Exposure to smoke, fumes and industrial dust leads to an increased incidence of pulmonary fibrosis. The disease also occurs more frequently in occupations involving exposure to asbestos or coal
Favored by other diseases
There are independent diseases that promote the occurrence of pulmonary fibrosis. These include, for example, sarcoidosis and scleroderma.
Autoimmune
Pulmonary fibrosis can break out due to autoimmune causes.
As the disease progresses, the patient develops a dry, persistent cough and shortness of breath. As the scarring of the lungs progresses, the shortness of breath also occurs during everyday activities. Other symptoms include fatigue and weakness or loss of appetite. Unexplained weight loss and the thickening of finger extremities can also be a sign of pulmonary fibrosis.
In addition to a comprehensive physical examination, the patient's medical history is of great importance due to the large number of causes. This is the only way to identify occupational, environmentally induced or drug-related triggers.
The patient usually requires oxygen therapy, in which oxygen is administered. There is also pulmonary rehabilitation, in which those affected do certain breathing exercises in consultation with the treating doctor and follow a training program that strengthens lung function. Information is also provided on how to deal with stress, depression and anxiety.
There is also the option of drug therapy. However, due to the different causes, it is not easy to find the right medication. In the late stages of the disease, a lung transplant is an option.
There are various ways to help those affected. These include donations and sponsorship opportunities. But you can also help without monetary support. You can participate digitally in the “30 facts in 30 days” series and repost the posts that are published on the various social media channels. On the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Website you will find further ways to support the cause.
In September, “Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month” draws global attention to pulmonary fibrosis to raise awareness of the disease in society. We would also like to join in and raise awareness of the disease. The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF) is the largest non-profit organization focused on research, cures and funding.
People who rely on a rollator in everyday life use it not only indoors or on smooth pavements. Walks in the park, trips to the supermarket, or outings in nature are an integral part of daily...
Crutches are uncomfortable, unstable, and often painful. Anyone who has used underarm crutches after foot surgery or an ankle injury knows the struggle: sore hands...
Manual wheelchairs are an essential part of everyday care in medical and nursing settings. Whether in hospitals, care facilities, or rehabilitation centers...
