Diagnostic Methods And Treatments For Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Symptom Management

Some of the symptoms of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis can be addressed individually to improve a patient's quality of life. Symptom management treatments are sometimes considered for weight loss, fatigue, dry cough, and leg swelling. For weight loss, patients may meet with a nutritionist to improve their diet. Diets are usually focused on increased calories and ensuring a proper macronutrient ratio with emphasis on protein. Sleep hygiene can be beneficial for fatigue, as it helps patients develop a regular sleep routine so they are getting adequate rest every day. For a dry cough, tea with honey, throat lozenges, ginger, staying hydrated, and a saltwater gargle can help soothe the cough and associated throat soreness. Leg swelling can benefit from elevating the legs above heart level and balancing fluid and salt intake.

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Lung Transplant

If the patient's condition is very severe or progressing rapidly, doctors might discuss a lung transplant with them. Getting new lungs can help to prolong a patient's life and ensure a higher quality of life. This is a major surgery that requires a lifelong commitment to preventing the body from rejecting the transplanted lungs. Following the surgery, patients should expect to spend up to three weeks in the hospital. During this time, patients will heal from surgery, have their pulmonary function monitored, and receive respiratory therapy. Once the new lungs are in place, patients will take anti-rejection medication for the rest of their lives. It is also recommended that, for the rest of the patient's life, they make healthy lifestyle choices, do not smoke, receive all routine vaccines, and practice good hygiene.

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