Treatment:

No known cure exists for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Medications such as corticosteroids and cytotoxic drugs may be given to reduce swelling (inflammation), but these treatments usually don't work. Oxygen is given to patients who have low blood oxygen levels.

Some patients with advanced pulmonary fibrosis may need a lung transplant. Lung rehabilitation will not cure the lung disease, but it can help maintain exercise capacity.

Support Groups:

You can ease the stress of illness by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems.

See also: Lung disease - support group

Expectations (prognosis):

Some patients may improve when they are treated with corticosteroids or cytotoxic drugs, but in most people the disease can get worse even with treatment. This worsening can happen quickly, or very slowly.

Complications:

• Chronic hypoxemia (low blood oxygen level)
• Cor pulmonale
• Pneumothorax
• Polycythemia (abnormally high levels of red blood cells)
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Respiratory failure

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop a regular cough or shortness of breath.