CR- Pulmonary Fibrosis

Question 1

What is Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Answer 1

A progressive restrictive disease caused by inflammation and scarring of the lungs

Also known as Cryptogenic Fibrosing Alveolitis or Usual Interstitial Pneumonia.

Question 2

What is the main symptom of Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Answer 2

Breathlessness, which can be severe in some cases

Other symptoms include a constant cough, fatigue, and clubbing of fingers and toes.

Question 3

What are some self-management strategies for patients with Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Answer 3

Patients can:
* Stop smoking
* Have the early flu jab
* Have the pneumococcal vaccination
* Avoid people with chest infections and colds
* Stay as fit and active as possible
* Eat a healthy balanced diet
* Get in touch with the British Lung Foundation for support

Question 4

Which demographic is more likely to be diagnosed with IPF? Gender? Age?

Answer 4

Men, accounting for 6 in every 10 cases

It is also more likely to affect older people.

Question 5

What are some potential causes of Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Answer 5

Causes can include:
* Unknown (idiopathic)
* Smoking
* Occupational exposure (dust from wood, metal, textile, or stone)
* Certain infections and viruses (e.g., herpes virus, Hep C)
* Link to gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
* Genetic factors in some cases

Question 6

What diagnostic methods are used for Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Answer 6

Diagnosis includes:
* Detailed patient history
* Clinical signs (breathlessness, persistent cough, clubbing)
* Spirometry
* Bronchoscopy
* Chest x-ray followed by a CT scan

Question 7

What treatments are commonly used for managing Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Answer 7

Management includes:
* O2 therapy
* Pulmonary rehabilitation
* Medications (e.g., sedatives, morphine)
* Treatment for heartburn and nasal blockage
* Rarely, lung transplant

Question 8

What medications are currently used for Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Answer 8

Drugs include:
* Pirfenidone (Esbriet)
* Nintedanib

Pirfenidone is used for mild to moderate IPF, while Nintedanib helps reduce scarring and flare-ups.

Question 9

What components are involved in pulmonary rehabilitation?

Answer 9

Pulmonary rehabilitation includes:
* Exercise
* Education
* Self-management
* Diet
* Lifestyle modifications

Question 10

True or False: Pulmonary Fibrosis is an infectious disease.

Answer 10

False