Pulmonary Fibrosis
Pulmonary Fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis (pronounced: pul-MON-ary fy-BRO-sis) is a lung disease that occurs when lung tissue becomes damaged and scarred. This thickened, stiff tissue makes it more difficult for your lungs to work properly. As pulmonary fibrosis worsens, you become progressively more short of breath.
Etymology
The term "pulmonary" comes from the Latin pulmonarius (of the lungs) and "fibrosis" is derived from the Latin fibra (fiber) and the Greek -osis (condition).
Symptoms
The main symptom of pulmonary fibrosis is shortness of breath, particularly with exertion. Other symptoms may include fatigue, weight loss, a dry cough, and aching muscles and joints.
Causes
Pulmonary fibrosis can be caused by a multitude of factors. However, in most cases, doctors can't pinpoint what's causing the problem. When a cause can't be found, the condition is termed idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Treatment
Treatment for pulmonary fibrosis is designed to ease symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Options include medication, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, or lung transplant in severe cases.
Related Terms
- Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
- Interstitial Lung Disease
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
- Pneumonia
- Lung Transplant
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pulmonary Fibrosis
- Wikipedia's article - Pulmonary Fibrosis
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