Pulmonary Fibrosis Treated by Baltimore Lung Doctors
Expert pulmonologists of The Lung Center at Mercy use advanced technologies, including robotic bronchoscopy, to diagnose pulmonary fibrosis.
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a lung disease in which the lung tissue becomes damaged or scarred. The scarred tissue makes it more difficult for the lungs to work correctly, blocking the movement of oxygen from the lungs into the bloodstream. Low oxygen levels in the bloodstream can cause difficulty with breathing and performing day-to-day activities.
Pulmonary fibrosis often has no known causes but there are certain risk factors and conditions that may increase the chances of developing the it. These include:
- Heartburn
- Certain medications
- Radiation treatments
- Exposure to environmental and occupational hazards
- A long smoking history
- Family history
- Genetics
- Male gender
- Older age
Pulmonary fibrosis can mimic many other common lung diseases. Signs and symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis can vary depending of the severity of the disease. These symptoms can include:
- Shortness of breath
- Dry cough
- Fatigue
- Unexplainable weight loss
Your lung specialist may first conduct a physical exam to evaluate your symptoms. Pulmonary fibrosis may also be diagnosed through a variety of tests including:
- Genetic Testing
- Blood tests
- Chest X-Ray
- Computerized tomography (CT) scan
- Bronchoscopy
- Echocardiogram
- Pulmonary function tests
Lung damage due to pulmonary fibrosis is permanent. In most cases, treatment focuses on easing symptoms and improving quality of life. Early diagnosis is essential in determining the severity of the disease and initiating appropriate treatment options. Treatment to improve symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis may include:
- Medications
- Oxygen therapy
- Pulmonary rehabilitation program
- Lung transplant