Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a disease that causes inflammation and scarring in the lungs. This eMedTV Web page provides a complete overview of the condition, including information on possible causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
As this eMedTV page explains, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis causes are unknown, but there are certain risk factors (such as genetics and medications) that increase your chance of developing IPF. This page describes these risk factors in more detail.
This eMedTV page explains that shortness of breath and a dry cough are some of the early signs of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. This page discusses these and other IPF symptoms in detail, and describes the complications these symptoms may cause.
This eMedTV segment explains how idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is diagnosed. This includes taking the patient's medical history, performing a physical exam, and ordering certain tests (the most common being the video-assisted thoracoscopy).
Treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis may involve medicine, oxygen therapy, or a lung transplant. This eMedTV Web page describes these options in detail and explains the factors that a doctor will consider when determining an IPF treatment plan.
As this eMedTV page explains, people living with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) can educate themselves on the disease and learn how to manage symptoms. This page offers tips on coping with IPF, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising.
As this page from the eMedTV Web site explains, the estimated life expectancy of people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is two to four years after diagnosis. This page also describes some of the factors that may lead to a longer survival rate.
