Caring for a loved one with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis can be challenging emotionally and physically. Currently, pulmonary fibrosis is not curable, which can make caregiving even more difficult. But there are things you can do to improve your loved one’s quality of life along with maintaining your wellbeing. Let Your Loved One do as Much for Themselves as Possible It’s … [Read more...]
Top Questions to Ask Your Pulmonologist
If you received a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis, it could seem overwhelming, especially if you are newly diagnosed. Pulmonary fibrosis is not something most people are familiar with. Having a lot of questions is normal. Your doctor probably explained the basics, such as what pulmonary fibrosis involves and typical symptoms to expect. But there is a lot more to learn about … [Read more...]
Harmonica Therapy in Pulmonary Rehab
Pulmonary rehabilitation classes can be beneficial for people with lung disease including pulmonary fibrosis. In addition to exercise, pulmonary rehab provides education and support. But some rehab programs are also adding music to the mix. It might be surprising to learn that harmonica therapy is being implemented in some pulmonary rehabilitation classes around the country. … [Read more...]
Nutrition and Weight Management with Pulmonary Fibrosis
People with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis may have some challenges when it comes to weight management. For some individuals with IPF, it may be difficult to exercise due to shortness of breath or fatigue, which can lead to weight gain. Taking steroids can increase your appetite, which can also lead to making unhealthy eating choices. In other instances, the opposite can … [Read more...]
Update: Stem Cells and the FDA Crackdown
At the end of 2017, the Food and Drug Agency announced that it was going to crack down on scams involving stem cells. I have written repeatedly about this scam that is taking advantage of patients with advanced lung disease. Con-Artists have been scamming patients with IPF for many years now - offering them the hope of completely unfounded improvement in their disease … [Read more...]