Treatment:

The treatment depends on the cause of the disease. Most often, anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressing drugs, are prescribed.

If there is no specific treatment for the condition, therapy is aimed at making the person more comfortable and supporting lung function. Those with low blood oxygen levels will receive oxygen. Lung rehabilitation can help people with advanced ILD.

Some patients with advanced ILD may need a lung transplant.

Support Groups:

For additional information and resources, see lung disease support group.

Expectations (prognosis):

Chances of recovery or the disease getting worse depend on the cause, and how severe the disease was when it was first diagnosed.

Complications:

• Hypoxemia
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Respiratory failure
• Right-sided heart failure (cor pulmonale)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have shortness of breath at rest that lasts for any period of time.