Interstitial Lung Disease

• ​Shortness of breath 
• Cough 
• Decreased exercise tolerance 
• Fatigue 
• Weight loss
  

• Autoimmune diseases (conditions which involve the immune system harming the body) such as systemic sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis
• Environmental and occupational exposures to different toxins or pollutants like bird droppings, silica
• Familial – the disease is hereditary (passed down the family tree) 
• Idiopathic – the cause is currently unknown
  

​When ILD is suspected, diagnostic tests such as the following may be necessary:

• X-rays
• CT scans 
• Pulmonary function tests
• Specific blood investigations
• Bronchoscopy
• Surgical lung biopsy
  

​Treatment for ILD depends on the underlying cause. 

Non-medication treatments involve:

• Pulmonary rehabilitation programme – helps strengthen breathing muscles and manage breathing difficulties. Structured and supervised exercise training with education, support and self-management strategies
  
• Oxygen therapy – supplemental oxygen may improve activity levels. In some cases, patients may require long term oxygen therapy
• Updated vaccinations against influenza and pneumococcus reduce the risk of
  
  infections which can worsen breathlessness and other symptoms
  

​Regular follow-up with your doctor is crucial for monitoring compliance, treatment response, and managing potential side effects of medications. Your doctor will provide further guidance on treatment plans during consultations.

Download our leaflet to learn more about ILD:

Interstitial Lung Disease (English).pdf