User:Vandycaj/Pulmonary fibrosis
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition in which the lungs become scarred over time.[1] Symptoms include shortness of breath, a dry cough, feeling tired, weight loss, and nail clubbing.[1] Complications may include pulmonary hypertension, respiratory failure, pneumothorax, and lung cancer.[2]
Causes include environmental pollution, certain medications, connective tissue diseases, infections, and interstitial lung diseases.[1][3][4] However, in most cases the cause is unknown, and termed idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.[1][3] Diagnosis may be based on symptoms, medical imaging, lung biopsy, and lung function tests.[1]
No cure exists and only limited treatment options are available.[1] Treatment is directed towards efforts to improve symptoms and may include oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation.[1][5] Certain medications may be used to try to slow the worsening of scarring.[5] Lung transplantation may occasionally be an option.[3] At least 5 million people are affected globally.[6] Life expectancy is generally less than five years.[3]