Interstitial Lung Disease - ILD
Interstitial lung disease describes a large group of disorders, most of which cause progressive scarring (fibrosis) of lung tissue. The scarring associated with interstitial lung disease eventually affects your ability to breathe and get enough oxygen into your bloodstream. Lung damage is often irreversible and gets worse over time.
Interstitial lung disease can be caused by long-term exposure to hazardous materials, and has been linked to asbestosis and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. People with autoimmune diseases, such as sarcoidosis and rheumatoid arthritis are at and increased risk of developing an interstitial lung disease. Smoking can not only cause ILDs but can make the condition much worse.
Once lung scarring occurs, it's generally irreversible. Treatment can include:
- Medications may slow the damage of interstitial lung disease, but many people never regain full use of their lungs. Medications, such as corticosteroids, can be used to decrease inflammation in the lungs.
- Oxygen therapy is another common treatment because it helps deliver extra oxygen to make breathing easier and lessen complications from low blood oxygen levels.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation may also be recommended to improve daily life by giving patients techniques to improve lung efficiency, physical endurance and offer emotional support.
- Lung transplant is an option for some patients who have an interstitial lung disease.
