Pulmonary fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition in which scarring occurs in the lungs. It can be caused by an infection (such as tuberculosis or pneumonia) or injury or by breathing certain materials, such as asbestos. Pulmonary fibrosis makes the lungs less elastic and can lead to breathing difficulties.
Symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis include:
- Shortness of breath.
- Decreased ability to be active.
- Dry cough.
Treatment for pulmonary fibrosis focuses on relieving symptoms. However, pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive disease, and there is no known cure.
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
May 25, 2007
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