Recognizing the signs and symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis Shortness of breath is the most obvious symptom of pulmonary fibrillosis. This symptom is not common until the disease progresses.
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Other signs and symptoms of pulmonary Fibrosis include
- A dry, hacking cough
- unintentional weight loss
- The tips of fingers and toes can be rounded or widened.
- Feeling tired
What is the relationship between RA and pulmonary fibrosis?
Although the cause of pulmonary fibrosis remains unknown, RA may increase your chances of developing it. Research has also shown that high levels of RA antibodies can be linked to interstitial lung disease (ILD).
ILD is the most common lung condition that’s linked to RA. It can lead to pulmonary fibrosis, which is a life-threatening and serious condition. You may also be at higher risk of pulmonary fibrosis due to other factors
- Cigarette smoking and environmental pollution
- Viral infections
- Use of medication that damages the lungs (chemotherapy drugs and heart medications, as well as certain anti-inflammatory medications)
- A family history of pulmonary Fibrosis
- A history of gastroesophageal reflux syndrome
If you have a medical condition that causes damage to your lungs (e.g. polymysitis, Sarcoidosis, or pneumonia), you may also be at risk of developing pulmonary fibrosis.
When should you see a doctor?
Your doctor will review your medical history and ask you questions about your symptoms. He or she may also conduct a physical exam to check your breathing. To determine if you have pulmonary fibrillation, there are several tests that can be done. These tests include:
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Imaging tests. Scarred lung tissue can be detected by a CT scan or chest X-ray. To check for abnormal heart pressures due to pulmonary fibrosis, an echocardiogram is possible.
Testing of pulmonary function. A spirometry test will show your doctor how much air your lungs can hold and how the air flows through your lungs. Pulse oximetry. Pulse oximetry measures how much oxygen is in your blood.
Arterial blood gas test. This test takes a sample from your blood to determine the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Biopsy. To diagnose pulmonary fibrillation, your doctor might need to take a small amount from your lungs. A bronchoscopy and a surgical biopsy are options. A bronchoscopy can be performed more easily than a surgical biopsy. However, it is often the only way to obtain sufficient tissue samples.
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Blood tests. Blood tests may be used by your doctor to check the health of your kidneys and liver. This helps to rule out other conditions that could be associated with lung disease.
Pulmonary fibrosis complications
Because of the complications and risks involved, it is important to diagnose and treat pulmonary fibrosis as soon as possible. Pulmonary Fibrosis can lead to:
- a collapsed lung
- Right-sided Heart Failure
- Respiratory failure
- High blood pressure in the lungs
Pulmonary fibrosis, which is a chronic condition that causes pulmonary fibrosis, can increase your risk of developing lung cancer or infection.
Management and treatment of pulmonary Fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis lung scarring is irreversible. The best treatment is to treat the underlying RA and slow down the progression of the disease. There are many treatment options that can improve your quality life.
- Corticosteroids, immunosuppressants and other medications are some examples.
- Oxygen therapy is used to improve breathing and lower the risk of complications
- Pulmonary rehabilitation is a way to strengthen the lungs, and improve symptoms
Your doctor may recommend a heart-lung transplant if your condition is serious. This will replace your damaged heart and lungs with healthy donors. Transplantation can improve your breathing and quality of life. However, there are some risks.
You may have an immune response to the immunosuppresant medications, and your body might reject the organ. To reduce the chance of rejection, you will need to continue taking these drugs throughout your life.
Self-care
These are just a few of the many treatment options available. You also need to ensure your lungs remain healthy. It is important to stop smoking and avoid any other pollutants that can irritate your lungs.
Regular exercise can improve lung function. Ask your doctor for safe exercises such as swimming, biking, and walking.
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To lower your chances of getting infected, you should have an annual flu shot and pneumonia vaccine. You should eat smaller meals and fewer frequent meals if you notice that your breathing becomes worse after eating. It is easier to breathe if your stomach is full.
