Treatment Options for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is the scarring of the lung tissue that leads to shortness in breath. Excessive scarring can cause damage to the lungs and make it difficult to breathe. There is no specific cause that is identified for this condition. There are various treatment options for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) as listed below.
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Medication
Currently, there are no medicines that can cure the condition. Medicines like azathioprine, prednisone, and N-acetylcysteine can help. There is no evidence that supports its use.
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Prednisone
This is an anti-inflammatory medicine that can be taken orally every day. It can also be administered through a needle or tube into the vein. It can cause strong side effects; hence, the doctor may only prescribe it for three to six months initially. If it works, the dosage can be reduced over time.
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Azathioprine
Azathioprine will suppress your immune system. It can be taken orally, but it has serious side effects.
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N-acetylcysteine
This is an antioxidant that may prevent the lung damage. It can be taken orally several times a day.
A combination of all the three medicines is a common treatment for IPF. However, it is harmful and not advisable for the long term. Patients should start and stop the medication after consulting a doctor. They should not make a decision on their own.
Researchers are studying new medicines and treatments for IPF. Some medications can reduce the scarring caused by IPF.
Other treatments
There are other treatments that can help people with IPF. These treatments include cough medicines to relieve coughing, flu and pneumonia vaccines to help prevent infections, Vitamin D and calcium to prevent bone loss, and anti-reflux therapy to control gastroesophageal reflux disease.
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Oxygen therapy
If the level of oxygen in the blood of a patient falls, they may require oxygen therapy. It can help reduce shortness of breath and improve the physical condition. Oxygen is supplied through nasal prongs or a mask.
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Pulmonary rehabilitation
This is a standard treatment for patients with a chronic lung disease. It helps improve the well-being of patients who suffer from breathing problems. It does not replace medical therapy but is used with the same. It includes exercise training, breathing strategies, nutritional counseling, education on the disease, psychological counseling, and energy conserving techniques.
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Lung transplant
If the patient’s condition is worsening quickly, the last option may be a lung transplant. It can help improve the physical condition and help live longer. The major complication of the transplant will be rejection and infection. Rejection is the body creating proteins that attack the new organ. Patients might have to consume medicines for the rest of their life to reduce the risk of rejection. Since the supply of donors is limited, it is important to speak to a doctor regarding the transplant at the earliest.
Understanding the medical condition will help deal with it in a better manner. It is important to consult a doctor before taking up any medication or treatment related to the disease.
