Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an umbrella term used for a large group of diseases that cause scarring (fibrosis) of the lungs. The scarring causes stiffness in the lungs which makes it difficult to breathe.
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Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an umbrella term used for a large group of diseases that cause scarring (fibrosis) of the lungs. ILD makes it difficult for your to breath due to scarring on the lungs, meaning oxygen struggles to get into the blood stream. The scarring caused by this can result in a feeling of tightness and is often an irreversible condition.
Although in theory anyone can get interstitial lung disease (IDL), certain factors can increase your risk, such as the use of certain medications, genetics and some medical treatments like radiation or chemotherapy. People with autoimmune diseases such as are also at increased risk of developing an ILD.
In many cases, the direct causes of ILD will be unknown. Smoking can cause ILDs. If you are diagnosed with ILD, your doctor will strongly encourage you to quit smoking because it has been shown to make the condition worse.
Common symptoms of Interstitial lung disease (ILD) include
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor immediately.
If your doctor suspects you have Interstitial lung disease (ILD), they will carry out some tests. This will most likely be a CT scan and a lung function test. If your case is severe, you may need a bronchoscopy or a lung biopsy.
The treatment you receive for ILD will depend on the severity of your condition and the damage to your lungs. In many cases, the scarring and damage to your lungs is irreversible, so your doctor will work on slowing the progression of your condition and managing the symptoms you are experiencing. Common treatments include:
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Causes
Smoking
Symptoms
shortness of breath., dry cough, chest discomfo...
Tests
Lung function test, CT scan, bronchoscopy
Treatments
Medications, Oxygen Therapy, Pulmonary rehabilit...
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