Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a disease that slowly scars the lungs for reasons doctors don’t fully know. That scarring makes breathing harder over time and lowers how much oxygen your blood carries. People often notice shortness of breath with activity, a dry cough, and tiredness. Some also have clubbed fingers or ongoing breathlessness that didn’t start after an infection.
Early recognition matters. If you’ve had unexplained shortness of breath for weeks or a cough that won’t quit, tell your doctor. They’ll likely order lung function tests, a chest CT scan, and blood work. Sometimes a lung biopsy or referral to a lung specialist (pulmonologist) is needed to confirm IPF and rule out other causes.
There’s no cure for IPF, but treatments can slow the disease and help you feel better. Two antifibrotic drugs — pirfenidone and nintedanib — are commonly used. They don’t reverse scarring but can slow how fast it gets worse. Side effects happen: nausea, diarrhea, or liver changes, so expect regular checkups and blood tests.
Oxygen therapy helps if your oxygen levels drop with activity or at rest. It can reduce breathlessness, make exercise easier, and improve sleep. Pulmonary rehabilitation — supervised exercise and breathing training — often helps people get stronger and more confident moving around.
Quit smoking and avoid lung irritants. Stay up to date with flu and pneumonia vaccines. Keep physically active with a rehab plan your team approves — short walks and breathing techniques can make daily life easier. Talk with your doctor about advanced care planning and whether lung transplant evaluation is an option; for some people with progressive disease, transplant offers the best long-term outcome.
Mental health matters. Feeling anxious or down is common after an IPF diagnosis. Join a support group or ask for a referral to counseling. Managing symptoms like cough, fatigue, and sleep problems improves quality of life.
Ask your care team about clinical trials. Research in IPF is active, and trials can offer access to new treatments. Keep a written list of your symptoms and questions for visits — it helps you get straight answers and makes appointments more useful.
Finally, know when to seek urgent care: sudden worsening of breath, chest pain, fever, or confusion should prompt immediate medical attention. IPF can change quickly, and early treatment of flare-ups or complications matters.
This page collects articles and resources on IPF basics, treatments, and practical steps you can take today. Bookmark trusted sources and stay connected with your medical team — that combination gives you the best chance to manage life with IPF.
