What is pulmonary fibrosis?

Pulmonary fibrosis causes the tissues deep in your lungs to become scarred over time. As the tissues becomes thick and stiff, you may develop breathing problems, and your blood may not get enough oxygen.

What causes pulmonary fibrosis?

Causes include environmental pollutants and interstitial lung disease, a large group of conditions that inflame or scar the lungs. Some medicines and connective tissue diseases also can cause pulmonary fibrosis. In most cases, the cause cannot be found.

What are the symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis?

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

How does Ohio State diagnose pulmonary fibrosis?

Your doctor may use your medical history, a biopsy and lung function and imaging tests to diagnose pulmonary fibrosis.

How does Ohio State treat pulmonary fibrosis?

There’s no cure, but treatment can help with symptoms and improve quality of life. Remedies include drugs, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation or lung transplant. 

If you need at-home therapy equipment

If you need home medical equipment such as at-home oxygen therapy, it’s easy to obtain quickly through Ohio State Home Medical Equipment (OSHME).

A joint collaboration between Ohio State and DASCO Home Medical Equipment, OSHME has staff and supplies on hand for Ohio State patients. To lean more about available equipment, place an order or talk to a specialist, visit godasco.com.