We have received a variety of questions about pulmonary fibrosis that is not Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). The terminology is quite confusing in this area of medicine. IPF is a very specific diagnosis that is only a small portion of the universe of pulmonary fibrosis. Most patients with pulmonary fibrosis have non-IPF pulmonary fibrosis. Many types of lung … [Read more...]
Pulmonary Fibrosis Exacerbation
Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) often enjoy prolonged periods of stability where their disease does not progress. Other patients may have very gradual worsening of symptoms. On this background, IPF patients at times may experience more abrupt decline. Many patients first notice increased cough followed by increased shortness of breath. This pattern should … [Read more...]
September is Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month
Knowledge is power! We hope to spread the word about IPF to empower patients and caregivers and drive interest in treatment and research to find a cure for IPF. We are participating in a national and international effort to raise awareness about Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. What is IPF? IPF is an as yet irreversible scarring process of the lungs. The two cardinal symptoms … [Read more...]
Depression and Pulmonary Fibrosis
You are not alone. Depression is a common problem for patients with pulmonary fibrosis. Common symptoms include feeling blue, loss of interest in activities that you usually enjoy, increased or decreased sleep, irritability, change in appetite, frequent crying, avoiding social situations and thoughts of hurting yourself. The symptoms of depression may be mild, moderate or … [Read more...]
Pulmonary Fibrosis & Edema: Why Are My Legs Swelling?
A common problem with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis is the slow development of leg swelling or edema. This process is a maladaptive response to progressive lung disease. The heart, lungs, kidneys and brain all talk to each other through hormones. In health, the heart pumps adequate amounts of blood to the kidneys. Fluid and salt in your body are meticulously regulated. If … [Read more...]