Chronic Pulmonary Fibrosis (PF):

Chronic Pulmonary Fibrosis involves scarring of the lung. Gradually, the air sacs of the lungs are replaced by fibrotic tissue. The scar tissue so formed lacks ability to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream.

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF):

It is a debilitating and life-threatening lung disease, but the cause of IPF is often not known. IPF is a chronic interstitial lung disease, which usually leads to end-stage fibrosis. IPF usually involves progressive scarring of the lungs, resulting into compromized lung capacity for oxygen intake. The excessive and persistent formation of scar tissue in lung (and possibly airways) adversely affects proper lung function, and often leads to partial/complete lung failure.

As scarring progresses over time, IPF patients experience shortness of breath, and face increasing difficulty in performing routine daily activities.

Worldwide approximately five million people affected by this disease. Current estimates place the total number of IPF cases in US to be well over 200,000 -of these more than 40,000 expire annually. Approximately over 15,000 new cases are diagnosed every year.

Symptoms of Chronic Pulmonary Fibrosis:

• Shortness of breath,
• Discomfort in the chest,
• Chronic dry cough,
• Chronic fatigue and weakness,
• Sudden weight loss.

What causes Chronic Pulmonary Fibrosis?

While the exact cause remains unknown, common risk factors include Inhaled airborne particles and occupational pollutants (fine dust, fibers, etc.), Diseases such as Scleroderma, Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis, Certain medications and Therapeutic radiation.

How is Chronic Pulmonary Fibrosis treated?

Currently, no effective treatment is available for Pulmonary Fibrosis. Supplemental oxygen is often administered, leading to significant improvement in patients' quality of life. Some times single lung transplant is also considered.

Don't forget to check out Lung Disease News section of this website for the latest Pulmonary Fibrosis Treatment News, and our Lung Disease Articles Library for the latest Pulmonary Fibrosis related Articles.

Note: Consult a qualified medical practitioner if you suspect lung disease. Information published at this mesothelioma lung disease asbestos cancer forum - or most other websites for that matter - should not be relied upon for health decisions. The information presented on this web site is not intended as a substitute for medical care, medical, legal, or professional advise. Please talk with your healthcare provider for all your health concerns.