Winter is upon us. We rang in the New Year. Influenza and other respiratory viruses have now made major appearances across America. For many patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) this is an anxious time of the year. Many worry about whether their lung disease will be able to tolerate the additional stress of a viral respiratory infection. Many of my patients … [Read more...]
How to Save Money on Your Prescriptions
Over the last decade the price of medicines has increased dramatically. Even old generic medications now cost $50-100/month whereas they previously cost $4-10/month. Patients are asked to spend more and more money everywhere they turn. Copays have increased, deductibles have increased and out of pocket maximums have increased. When you pick up medications at your pharmacy … [Read more...]
Pulmonary Fibrosis and Gastro-Esophageal Reflux: 2019 Update
Pulmonary fibrosis may result from many assaults to the lungs including chronic inflammation, severe or recurrent pneumonia and also recurrent severe gastro-esophageal reflux (GER) that leads to aspiration of stomach contents into your lungs. Over the years there has been variable focus on GER and its contribution to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Early data suggested a … [Read more...]
How Do I Know if I Have Chosen A Good IPF Doctor?
I am a bit paranoid when it comes to taking my car to the mechanic. I know almost nothing about cars and feel vulnerable. As a result, I do a lot of homework. I read reviews from other customers, check the better business bureau and make sure the mechanics are certified. This certainly does not guarantee that I will receive honest capable service but I hope … [Read more...]
Pamrevlumab Being Studied to Treat IPF
IPF remains a difficult disease to treat. In the last few years OFEV and Esbriet were approved and have been effective in slowing the progression but most patients will still progress over time. The search for new and better therapies to treat IPF continues and one of several exciting candidates is Pamrevlumab. This is an antibody to CTGF (connective tissue growth factor). … [Read more...]