About Us | Privacy | Site Map
May 18, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A

Pulmonary Fibrosis


Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition in which scarring occurs in the lungs; it can be caused by an infection (such as tuberculosis or pneumonia) or injury or by breathing certain materials, such as asbestos. Pulmonary fibrosis makes the lungs less elastic and can lead to breathing problems.

Symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis include:

  • Shortness of breath.
  • Decreased ability to be active.
  • Dry cough.

Treatment for pulmonary fibrosis focuses on relieving symptoms. But pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive disease, and there is no known cure.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerMark A. Rasmus, MD - Pulmonology, Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine
Last RevisedApril 28, 2011

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement





Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies