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Pulmonary Fibrosis
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lungs Breathing

Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition where lung tissue becomes scarred, thick, and stiff, making it difficult to breathe and receive adequate oxygen.

Overview

Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition in which the tissue deep in your lungs becomes scarred over time. This tissue gets thick and stiff. That makes it hard for you to catch your breath, and your blood may not get enough oxygen.

Causes & Risk Factors

Causes of pulmonary fibrosis include environmental pollutants, some medicines, some connective tissue diseases, and interstitial lung disease. Interstitial lung disease is the name for a large group of diseases that inflame or scar the lungs. In most cases, the cause cannot be found. This is called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Symptoms

  • Shortness of breath
  • A dry, hacking cough that doesn't get better
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss for no known reason
  • Aching muscles and joints
  • Clubbing, which is the widening and rounding of the tips of the fingers or toes

Diagnosis & Treatment

Your doctor may use your medical history, imaging tests, a biopsy, and lung function tests to diagnose pulmonary fibrosis. There is no cure. Treatments can help with symptoms and improve your quality of life. They include medicines, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, or a lung transplant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Practice pursed‑lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing several times a day, use a fan or open window for cool air, stay upright or use pillows to prop yourself while sleeping, and pace activities with scheduled rest breaks. A low‑impact exercise program (e.g., walking or stationary cycling) under a pulmonary rehab therapist can improve stamina without overexertion.
Begin oxygen if you desaturate below 88% on room air during a 6‑minute walk test, at rest, or when you feel persistent fatigue or cyanosis. Your doctor will prescribe a titration study to determine the minimal flow (often 1‑3 L/min) that keeps SpO₂ ≥ 90% during activity and sleep.
Quit smoking completely, avoid exposure to dust, fumes, or chemicals (use masks if unavoidable), maintain a healthy weight, and get vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcus to prevent infections that can accelerate fibrosis. Some clinicians also recommend a Mediterranean‑style diet rich in antioxidants, though evidence is still emerging.
The rate of progression varies; some people notice a steady decline over months, while others remain stable for years. On average, lung function (measured by FVC) drops about 5‑10% per year, but regular pulmonary function tests are needed to track your individual course.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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