Pulmonary fibrosis Flashcards
What is pulmonary fibrosis?
a restrictive disease caused by inflammation and scarring of the lungs
What are the causes of pulmonary fibrosis?
causes are unknown, often called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Which sex are more likely to have pulmonary fibrosis?
men
What age group is pulmonary fibrosis more likely to affect?
older people
What are potential causes of pulmonary fibrosis?
smoking
occupational exposure - dust from wood, metal, textile or stone
infection and some viruses such as herpes and hep C
genetics
GORD (gastrol-oesophageal reflux disease
What are the main symptoms of pulmonary disease?
breathlessness (main one)
a constant cough that doesn’t go away
feeling tired all of the time
clubbing of the fingers and toes
What are the clinical signs of pulmonary fibrosis?
breathlessness at rest and on exertion
cough that is persistent
clubbing
How do you diagnose pulmonary fibrosis?
detailed patient history
spirometry
bronchoscopy
chest X-ray followed by a CT
Is pulmonary fibrosis treated with inhalers?
not generally
How do you treat pulmonary fibrosis?
Pulmonary rehabilitation (gold standard)
Oxygen therapy
medication
lung transplant
treatment for heartburn and a blocked nose that may be making symptoms worse
What medications could be used for pulmonary fibrosis?
sedatives and morphine
What does pulmonary rehabilitation involve?
exercise
education
self management
diet
lifestyle modifications
What does pulmonary rehabilitation help with?
the management of breathlessness and exercise tolerance
How can patients help themselves with pulmonary fibrosis?
stop smoking
have the early flu jab
have the pneumococcal vaccination
avoid people with chest infections and colds
stay as fit and as active as you can
eat a healthy balanced diet
get in touch with the British lung foundation for further support and guidance
Is there a cure for pulmonary fibrosis?
No cure at present
