Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and You
What Is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis?
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a buildup of scar tissue in the lungs. This scar tissue damages the lungs and makes it hard for oxygen to get in. Not getting enough oxygen to the body can cause serious health problems and even death.
“Idiopathic” is the term used when no cause for the scarring can be found. In these cases, doctors think the scarring starts by something
that injures the lung. Scar tissue builds up as the lungs try to repair the injury. In time, so much scarring forms that patients have
problems breathing.
IPF usually worsens over time. However, while some patients get sick quickly, others may not feel sick for years. There is no cure for IPF,
but there are treatments that may be able to slow down the lung scarring.
If you have been diagnosed with IPF, this information is for you. Understanding your condition will go a long way to help you cope with
the effects it has on your body. Read on to find out more.
