Health Tip:Living with Pulmonary Fibrosis

(HealthDay News) -- Pulmonary fibrosis is a disease that can lead to scarring in air sacs within the lungs. This can make breathing difficult.

Most cases of the disease have no known cause, and its severity varies from person to person.

About 140,000 Americans have been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, the American Lung Association says.

Here are the group's suggestions for managing the disease:

  • Take all prescribed medicines as directed by your doctor.
  • Call your doctor right away if you have breathing difficulty.
  • Get a flu shot each year. And ask your doctor if you need a pneumonia vaccine.
  • If you smoke, quit.
  • Avoid secondhand smoke.
  • Ask your doctor if you may benefit from a pulmonary rehabilitation program.
  • Ask your doctor about exercises that will help you breathe easier.
  • Eat a well-balanced dietand maintain an ideal body weight.
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals. You may find it easier to breathe when your stomach isn't completely full.
  • Join a support group to help you cope with the disease. The American Lung Association has Better Breathers Clubs around the U.S.
  • If your disease is making you anxious or depressed, talk to your doctor.

    • Date Published: 02/14/2018

    Related Articles

    Search Articles

    Your Nose May Decide How Bad Your Cold Gets, Study Finds

    Scientists' Push For a Universal Vaccine Takes a Key Step Forward

    The Flu Vaccine Can Lower Your Risk Of Heart Attack And Stroke — Even If You Wind Up Infected

    Moderna Starts Large Bird Flu Study Despite Earlier HHS Funding Loss

    Flu, COVID Increase Risk of Heart Attack, Stroke

    Flu-Linked Brain Swelling Is Rare in Kids, But It Can Be Fatal